Homestyle Green Bean Bake

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 8
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

This Homestyle Green Bean Bake is a cozy classic that brings a comforting touch to any meal. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and a crispy onion topping, it’s a dish that stands out on any table, especially during the holiday season.

Ingredients for Homestyle Green Bean Bake

Fresh green beans are the star, offering a fresh crunch to balance the creamy sauce. Condensed cream of mushroom soup brings a rich, umami depth without the fuss of making a sauce from scratch. Whole milk helps thin the soup into a more pourable consistency. French fried onions add that irresistible crunchy topping. Grated cheddar cheese melts into a gooey layer of deliciousness. A touch of unsalted butter ensures a silky sauce, while salt, black pepper, and garlic powder enhance the overall savory profile.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra flavor, try adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the mushroom mixture.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded options.
  • If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This green bean bake pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or turkey, making it a fantastic choice for holiday meals. For a lighter dinner, serve it alongside grilled fish or a simple pasta dish. A fresh, crisp salad can complement its richness perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the fried onions just before baking.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Feel free to use your favorite melting cheese, like Monterey Jack or Gruyère, for a different flavor profile.

Homestyle Green Bean Bake Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This gives the oven plenty of time to get nice and hot while you prep. Next, wash and trim the green beans, cutting them into 2-inch pieces. This size is just right for ensuring they cook evenly and fit nicely on a fork.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and throw in the green beans for a quick 5-minute blanch. This step keeps them vibrant and crisp-tender. Once blanched, drain them and set aside.

Now, grab a saucepan and melt that tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is well mixed and warmed through. You want it smooth and creamy, no lumps!

Transfer your blanched green beans to a large mixing bowl, and pour the creamy mushroom sauce over them. Stir until each bean is coated in that delicious sauce. Pour this mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.

Sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the French fried onions. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and bubbly.

Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
  • A delightful blend of textures with creamy sauce and crispy onions.
  • Simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.
  • Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.

Ingredients

2 lbs fresh green beans
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup whole milk
1 1/2 cups French fried onions
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Wash and trim the green beans, cutting them into 2-inch pieces.
3. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
4. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the condensed mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined and heated through.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched green beans with the mushroom sauce, ensuring the beans are evenly coated.
6. Pour the green bean mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the French fried onions.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!