Introduction

This is the ultimate green bean casserole recipe, delivering classic comfort with incredible ease. Crisp green beans and creamy mushroom sauce are topped with golden fried onions for that perfect holiday side dish. It pairs wonderfully with Ultimate Mashed Potatoes Recipe for a complete feast. Simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, this easy version will become your go-to for any gathering.

Ingredients

This classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe delivers creamy, savory goodness with that signature crispy onion topping everyone loves.

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 (10.5 oz) cans cut green beans, drained
• 1 and 1/3 cups French’s Crispy Fried Onions, divided

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: This Green Bean Casserole Recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute holiday meals.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Green Beans

Trim the ends from fresh green beans and cut them into 1- to 2-inch pieces. If using frozen green beans, thaw them completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture.

Blanch fresh beans in boiling salted water for 4–5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp, then plunge into an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Step 2 — Make the Creamy Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until golden and fragrant.

Gradually whisk in milk and broth until smooth. Simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 3 — Combine Beans and Sauce

Stir the blanched or thawed green beans into the creamy sauce. Add a pinch of black pepper and a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire for depth.

Mix gently until all beans are evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before transferring to a baking dish.

Step 4 — Add the Crispy Topping

Sprinkle French-fried onions evenly over the green bean mixture. For extra crunch, mix in some panko breadcrumbs with the onions.

Press lightly so the topping adheres but remains loose enough to crisp up during baking.

Step 5 — Bake the Casserole

Place the dish in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly around the edges.

The casserole is done when the topping is golden brown and the filling is hot throughout. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of at least 165°F.

Step 6 — Rest and Serve

Let the Green Bean Casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to set slightly for easier serving.

Garnish with fresh parsley or extra crispy onions just before serving warm.

Nutritional Information

Calories	180
Protein	6g
Carbohydrates	15g
Fat	11g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	480mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Fresh or frozen green beans — Lower sodium than canned versions while maintaining crisp texture and vibrant flavor.
• Greek yogurt or sour cream — Lighter dairy option that still provides creamy richness to your Green Bean Casserole Recipe.
• Mushroom broth base — Creates a flavorful, lower-sodium alternative to traditional cream soups.
• Almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs — Perfect crispy topping for those needing gluten-free modifications.
• Coconut milk or cashew cream — Rich dairy-free alternatives that work beautifully in this casserole.
• Roasted chickpeas or nuts — Added protein and crunch as a topping alternative to fried onions.
• Spiralized zucchini or broccoli florets — Lower-carb vegetable bases that absorb the creamy sauce well.
• Nutritional yeast — Adds cheesy flavor without dairy for those with dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe with roasted turkey or baked ham for a comforting holiday meal.
• Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce for a complete Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner spread.
• Top individual portions with extra crispy fried onions for a beautiful, crunchy finish right before serving.
• Make it a star side dish for potlucks and family gatherings—it travels well and always disappears quickly.
• For a lighter pairing, serve with grilled chicken or pork chops and a fresh garden salad.
• Create a stunning buffet presentation by garnishing with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs for a pop of color.

This Green Bean Casserole Recipe is versatile enough for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions, making it a year-round favorite that complements many main courses.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using canned green beans, which become mushy. Fix: Opt for fresh or frozen green beans to maintain texture and vibrant color.
• Mistake: Overcooking the casserole, leading to a watery, separated sauce. Fix: Bake just until bubbly and golden to preserve the creamy consistency.
• Mistake: Skipping the step of blanching fresh green beans. Fix: Briefly boil them to tender-crisp perfection before baking.
• Mistake: Not seasoning each component, resulting in a bland final dish. Fix: Season the beans, sauce, and onions separately for balanced flavor.
• Mistake: Using a thin, runny cream soup as the base. Fix: Choose a thick, condensed cream of mushroom soup or make a roux-based sauce.
• Mistake: Adding crispy fried onions too early, so they become soggy. Fix: Reserve half to sprinkle on top in the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
• Mistake: Forgetting to drain excess liquid from ingredients. Fix: Thoroughly pat dry beans and mushrooms to prevent a soupy casserole.
• Mistake: Baking in a dish that’s too shallow, which can cause overflow and uneven cooking. Fix: Use a deep 2-3 quart casserole dish for best results.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Green Bean Casserole Recipe in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 20–30 minutes.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Green Bean Casserole Recipe is safely reheated to 165°F before serving.

Conclusion

This easy Green Bean Casserole Recipe is the perfect side dish for any holiday table. We hope you love it! Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments. For more delicious sides, check out our Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more family-friendly recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make this Green Bean Casserole Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble this Green Bean Casserole Recipe a day in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and add the crispy topping just before baking. This helps maintain the texture and freshness.

What can I use instead of canned cream of mushroom soup?

For a homemade version, make a creamy mushroom sauce with sautéed mushrooms, flour, broth, and milk. This substitution enhances the flavor of your Green Bean Casserole Recipe and avoids processed ingredients.

How do I make the green beans crisp-tender?

Blanch fresh green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then plunge them into ice water. This stops the cooking process, ensuring they stay crisp-tender in the final Green Bean Casserole Recipe.