green bean casserole recipe

Name: green bean casserole recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Cream of mushroom soup – Some may turn up their noses at canned soup, but in this dish, it’s essential. It brings all the savory flavors, including hints of garlic and mushrooms, without the need for extra seasoning.; Green beans – While fresh green beans can be used, canned green beans offer a softer texture that pairs well with the crispy onion topping. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before mixing.; Milk – A small amount of milk helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency. You can use any type of milk you prefer.; Crispy fried onions – This is what gives the dish its signature crunch. Half of them are mixed into the casserole for texture, while the rest are sprinkled on top for the perfect golden finish.

Posted on 02/02/2025

Posted by Ava

Green bean casserole with crispy fried onions, served in a white dish, with a pumpkin in the background.

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Passed down from generations, the green bean casserole recipe has always been a holiday staple. Creamy, crispy, and with just the right notes of comfort, it elevates any meal to a special occasion. It is a dish that never fails to deliver whether Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a warm homey dinner.

But let’s be honest—not all green bean casseroles are great. Some turn out too soupy, some lack flavor, and others are missing that perfect crispy topping. This recipe avoids all those issues. It’s rich, well-seasoned, and has the best balance of creamy filling and crunchy fried onions.

Green bean casserole recipe with crispy fried onions, served in a white dish, with a pumpkin in the background.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make a truly great green bean casserole, this guide has you covered. This version keeps the traditional flavors intact while making a few key improvements. There are also some creative twists if you want to change things up.

Why This Recipe Works

A plate of green bean casserole with crispy fried onions, ready to be enjoyed, served with a fork.

The key to a perfect green bean casserole is getting the right texture and flavor in every bite. A good casserole should have a creamy sauce that isn’t too runny, green beans that stay tender but firm, and a crispy topping that adds just the right amount of crunch.

This recipe does all of that by:

Using a balanced mix of cream of mushroom soup and seasonings for depth
Adding soy sauce for an umami boost that makes the dish more flavorful
Baking in two stages to keep the crispy onions crunchy
Offering a few optional upgrades like cheese or bacon for extra richness

If you follow these steps, you’ll never have to worry about a bland or soggy casserole again.

Ingredients for Green Bean Casserole

This old-fashioned green beans casserole recipe has been handed down in many families for generations. Though it might have originated from the back of a Campbell’s soup can, this recipe has survived through the years for very good reason. The velvety sauce, crunchy green beans, and salty crisp fried onions are simply something nobody can resist! Here’s what you’ll need:

Cream of mushroom soup – Some may turn up their noses at canned soup, but in this dish, it’s essential. It brings all the savory flavors, including hints of garlic and mushrooms, without the need for extra seasoning.
Green beans – While fresh green beans can be used, canned green beans offer a softer texture that pairs well with the crispy onion topping. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before mixing.
Milk – A small amount of milk helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency. You can use any type of milk you prefer.
Crispy fried onions – This is what gives the dish its signature crunch. Half of them are mixed into the casserole for texture, while the rest are sprinkled on top for the perfect golden finish.

Variations

 If you love the traditional version, you might want to experiment with different flavors when making this as a side dish for a regular dinner. Here are a few fun ways to switch it up:

Bacon – Crisp up about 4 to 8 ounces of bacon, crumble it, and mix it into the casserole for a smoky, savory twist.

Cheese – For a richer, cheesier note, fold in 6 oz. Cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese, and for a layer of flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan.

Breadcrumbs – Mixing about 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs with the fried onions will create an even crunchier topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making green bean casserole is really an easy task. It just highlights how the textures and flavors come together to compete with any dish on the table. Follow the steps that guarantee all will be just right:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Then put the 9×13 pan aside.

Mix the ingredients

A bowl of green bean casserole mixture with a spoon, next to a plate of crispy fried onions and a bowl of yogurt or sour cream.

A bowl of green bean casserole mixture being stirred with a black spoon, next to a plate of crispy fried onions.

Place the green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and 1/2 cup of the fried onions in a mixing bowl; stir until the mixture is well combined.

Assemble the casserole

Green bean casserole mixture poured into a baking dish, with crispy fried onions in the background.

Pour the green bean mixture into the already prepared baking dish; spread evenly.

Add the topping

Green bean casserole topped with crispy fried onions, ready for baking.

Sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions over the top of the casserole.

Bake

A serving spoon scooping green bean casserole with crispy fried onions from a baking dish.

Place the casserole in the oven and bake till the sides are bubbly and the top is golden, about 30 to 35 minutes.

Let it rest

Let the casserole sit for a scant 10 minutes before serving it, which allows a rest and then a balancing of the piquant flavors to occur.

Helpful Tips 

Taste before adding salt – The cream of mushroom soup already contains a good amount of salt, so you may not need to add any extra.

Customize the crispy topping – If you love an extra crunchy topping, feel free to double the amount of fried onions or mix them with breadcrumbs for added texture.

Try different soups – If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of celery, cream of asparagus, or even a homemade version.

Make it ahead – This casserole can be prepared 24-48 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, then add the fried onion topping just before baking.

Adjust the size – If you need a smaller portion, you can halve the recipe and bake it in an 8-inch square baking dish instead.

Ways to Customize the Recipe

If you want to put a unique spin on the classic green bean casserole, here are a few easy modifications.

Bacon and Mushroom Upgrade

Cook some bacon until crispy, then crumble it into the casserole before baking. You can also sauté fresh mushrooms and mix them into the sauce for an even deeper mushroom flavor.

Garlic and Parmesan Twist

Instead of cheddar cheese, try adding freshly grated Parmesan. Adding minced roasted garlic to the sauce gives the dish a bold, savory kick.

Spicy Version

If you like a little heat, stir in some red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños. You can also drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the top before serving.

Crunchier Topping

For a different kind of crunch, mix some crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs with the fried onions before adding them to the top.

Serving Suggestions

Green bean casserole is traditionally served as a side dish during Thanksgiving or Christmas, but it works well with many meals. Here are some great main dishes to pair it with:

Roast turkey or chicken – The classic holiday pairing.
Glazed ham – A slightly sweet ham complements the creamy, savory casserole.
Beef pot roast – A hearty meal that pairs well with this comforting side.
Pork chops – A great option for a non-holiday dinner.

Storing and Reheating

You may refrigerate unused portions in an airtight container for four days. Rewarm leftovers in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or warm in the microwave for a short time (the toppings will not become as crispy). Alternatively, cover with fresh fried onions, which will regain some crunch when reheated in the oven.

Why Green Bean Casserole is a Must-Have Dish

Green bean casserole is not only a tradition during the holidays but also a comfort food that brings fond memories of family gatherings, big meals, and second helpings. From the tenderness of the grean beans to the creaminess of elegant mushroom sauce to the crunchiness of fried onions, this dish brings a balance of texture and flavor that everyone awaits from year to year.

Thanksgiving and Christmas are the most famous days on which to serve this dish, yet there is no rule as to why it can’t be enjoyed any other time during the year. With the least added ingredients, this side dish is one of the quickest to whip up and perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or a potluck.

Making Green Bean Casserole for Any Occasion

While green bean casserole is best known as a holiday dish, there’s no reason to save it just for Thanksgiving or Christmas. It’s easy to make and pairs well with so many meals, making it a great addition to Sunday dinners, potlucks, or even weeknight meals when you want something warm and comforting. Since it can be made ahead of time, it’s also perfect for meal planning—just assemble the ingredients, refrigerate, and bake when you’re ready.

FAQs

What Are the Ingredients for Green Bean Casserole?

Made with only a handful of simple ingredients, this dish is a real good-for-you way to taste a creamy gourmet plate, all pervaded with a strong flavor. The traditional recipe includes cream of mushroom soup, which provides a rich and savory base, green beans, which can be canned or fresh depending on your preference, milk to thin out the sauce and create the right consistency, and crispy fried onions, which add crunch and extra flavor. Some variations include cheese, bacon, or breadcrumbs for an added twist, but the classic version sticks to these four key ingredients.

How to Make Paula Deen Green Beans?

Paula Deen’s green bean recipe takes a slightly different approach from the traditional casserole version, often incorporating a Southern-style twist. Instead of using a creamy soup base, her recipe typically includes fresh green beans, bacon, onions, and chicken broth for a more savory and smoky flavor. The green beans are simmered with the bacon and seasonings to absorb all the richness before being served. Lately the method has produced a side dish with a shrewd, meaty taste that would well accompany roasted meats and cornbread. While it’s not the same as green bean casserole, it’s another great way to prepare green beans with plenty of flavor.

Is It Better to Use Frozen or Canned Green Beans for Green Bean Casserole?

Both frozen and canned green beans work well in green bean casserole, but they create slightly different textures. Canned green beans are the most commonly used option because they are already soft and blend well with the creamy sauce. They also have a slightly salty flavor, which complements the dish. Frozen green beans, on the other hand, hold their shape better and have a fresher, slightly firmer texture. If using frozen green beans, it’s best to blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes before adding them to the casserole to ensure they are tender enough. Fresh green beans are another great choice if you prefer a crispier bite, but they should be cooked slightly before baking to avoid toughness.

Why Is My Green Bean Casserole Bland?

Usually, under-seasoning or a lack of flavor-enhancing ingredients leads to a bland green bean casserole. Since most of the seasoning comes from the cream of mushroom soup, be sure to taste the mixture before baking and adjust accordingly. A dash of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, or black pepper can deepen the flavor. Ironically, overuse of milk might have the opposite effect and dilute the seasoning. Milk should only be added to thin the soup; too much would mean a watery mixture. A wave of flavor can also be imparted with the addition of cheese, sautéed mushrooms, bacon, or cayenne pepper.

Final Thoughts

Green bean casserole is a timeless classic. Whether you choose to stay traditional or dress it up a little, this dish guarantees compliments from your guests. Creamy sauce with tender green beans and crunchy topping gives comfort food relish during the holidays and beyond.
If you want some simple yet good food that brings warmth and nostalgia to your table, this is it. Try it once and it may just stick on your holiday menu for good!

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