Traditional Green Bean Casserole

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
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Green bean casserole is a classic dish that graces many holiday tables, but it’s just as perfect for any cozy family dinner. With its creamy texture and crispy onion topping, it provides a comforting taste of home.

Ingredients for Traditional Green Bean Casserole

Fresh green beans bring a crisp bite and vibrant color. The freshness really shines through, making a noticeable difference compared to canned.

Condensed cream of mushroom soup provides the creamy base and rich flavor. It's a pantry staple in many homes.

Whole milk adds extra creaminess and helps create a smooth sauce.

Soy sauce enhances the umami flavor, adding depth to the dish without overpowering it.

Ground black pepper gives a subtle kick of spice, balancing the creaminess.

Crispy fried onions are the star of the show, adding a crunchy, savory layer that complements the creamy green beans.

Unsalted butter is used to grease the dish and can help enhance the flavor without adding extra salt.

Tips & Tricks

  • Blanching the green beans in salted water not only seasons them but also helps preserve their bright green color.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the milk slightly or simmer the soup mixture on the stove briefly before adding the beans.
  • For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of garlic powder to the soup mixture.

Serving Suggestions

This green bean casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a hearty grain like quinoa or wild rice. Add a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and crispy onions, which are available at most grocery stores.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble it up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day. Add the fried onions just before baking.

Traditional Green Bean Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), giving it ample time to heat up. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—this will season the green beans as they cook. Add the green beans and let them cook for about five minutes until they’re just tender. Drain them well and set them aside to cool slightly.

In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, soy sauce, and ground black pepper. Stir until you have a smooth, well-blended mixture. Add the cooked green beans to the bowl along with half of the crispy fried onions. Mix everything gently to ensure the beans are evenly coated.

Grease a casserole dish with unsalted butter. This prevents sticking and adds a touch of richness. Pour the green bean mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Place in your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes until it’s bubbling and heated through.

Once the initial baking is done, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions on top, distributing them evenly for that perfect crunch in every bite. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional five minutes until the onions are golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare — ready in under an hour.
  • Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
  • Perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors.
  • A crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 1/3 cups crispy fried onions
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the green beans until just tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, soy sauce, and ground black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
4. Add the green beans to the mixture and half of the crispy fried onions. Stir to combine.
5. Grease a casserole dish with unsalted butter and pour the green bean mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions over the top.
8. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown.
9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

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