Traditional Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Looking for the perfect side dish for your next family gathering or holiday feast? Look no further than the traditional green bean casserole! This beloved American classic is a must-have on many dinner tables, thanks to its rich, creamy texture and satisfying blend of flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to please. Read on for everything you need to know to make the perfect green bean casserole, from ingredients to step-by-step instructions, substitutions, and more!

What is Green Bean Casserole?

Green bean casserole is a savory dish traditionally made with canned or fresh green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. Originally introduced by Campbell’s Soup Company in the 1950s, this dish quickly gained popularity due to its simplicity and delicious flavor. The creamy mushroom base, paired with tender green beans and crunchy onions, creates a perfect balance of textures. It’s become a staple in many households, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Ingredients List for Traditional Green Bean Casserole

To make a traditional green bean casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 cups of fresh green beans (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces) or 2 cans (14.5 oz each) of cut green beans, drained
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
• ¾ cup of milk (whole milk works best, but you can substitute if needed)
• 1 teaspoon of soy sauce (optional but adds depth of flavor)
• ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
• 1½ cups of French’s crispy fried onions (divided)
• Salt to taste

These ingredients are all easily accessible at any grocery store, making this casserole a go-to choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Ingredients List for Homemade Version of Green Bean Casserole

If you're looking for a from-scratch version, here’s an alternate ingredient list for a homemade twist on the classic:

• 4 cups of fresh green beans (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1½ cups of homemade cream of mushroom sauce (recipe below)
• 1 cup of whole milk or heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
• 1½ cups of crispy fried onions (either store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese (optional, for a cheesy variation)
• Salt to taste

To make a homemade cream of mushroom sauce, sauté 1½ cups of chopped mushrooms with 2 tablespoons of butter until soft. Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the mushrooms, then slowly whisk in 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth and ½ cup of heavy cream, stirring until thickened.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about green bean casserole is its versatility. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try to customize your dish:

1. Green Beans: While fresh or canned green beans are traditional, you can also use frozen green beans. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before use.
2. Cream of Mushroom Soup: Not a fan of mushrooms? Swap out the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or even cream of celery for a different flavor profile.
3. Fried Onions: Instead of store-bought fried onions, you can make your own by thinly slicing onions, coating them in flour, and frying them until golden. You could also use crispy shallots for a gourmet twist.
4. Additions: Consider adding crumbled bacon, grated cheddar cheese, or sautéed garlic for extra flavor.
5. Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free crispy onions to cater to dietary restrictions.
6. Dairy-Free Version: Substitute regular milk with almond milk or another plant-based milk, and use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup to create a dairy-free option.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get into the detailed step-by-step instructions to make your traditional green bean casserole perfect every time:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating the oven ensures even cooking for the casserole.
2. Cook the green beans: If you’re using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 5 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside. If using canned green beans, drain them well.
3. Mix the casserole base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce (if using), black pepper, and 1 cup of the fried onions. Stir in the cooked (or canned) green beans until everything is well coated.
4. Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the green bean mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the dish.
5. Bake: Bake the casserole for 25 minutes or until it starts to bubble around the edges.
6. Top with remaining fried onions: After 25 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of fried onions on top, and return it to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.

How to Cook Green Bean Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather Your Ingredients: Assemble all of your ingredients so you can move through the steps efficiently.
2. Prep the Green Beans: Trim the ends of the green beans and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Blanch fresh green beans for a firmer texture, or simply drain canned green beans.
3. Make the Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk, seasonings, and crispy onions.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Combine the green beans with the soup mixture and transfer to a greased baking dish.
5. Bake and Finish: Bake for 25 minutes, top with fried onions, and bake again until golden brown.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Blanching: If you’re using fresh green beans, don’t skip the blanching step. It ensures the beans maintain their texture and vibrant color.
2. Using Too Much Soup: Adding extra cream of mushroom soup can make the casserole too runny. Stick to the recommended measurements for the best results.
3. Burning the Fried Onions: Keep an eye on the onions during the last step. Overbaking can cause them to burn and taste bitter.
4. Not Draining Canned Beans: If you’re using canned green beans, drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the casserole soggy.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Green bean casserole is a classic side dish, but that doesn’t mean it can’t look beautiful on the table. Here are some serving and presentation tips to make your casserole stand out:

• Serve in a rustic dish: Present the casserole in a vintage ceramic or glass dish to give it a homestyle feel.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a pop of color by garnishing the casserole with chopped parsley or thyme.
• Use a serving spoon: Make sure to include a large serving spoon for easy scooping.

How to Serve Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole pairs perfectly with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside roasted turkey, ham, or beef tenderloin during the holidays. It also complements simple meals like grilled chicken or baked salmon for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Presentation Ideas for Green Bean Casserole

• Individual Portions: Serve the casserole in small ramekins for a unique presentation, ideal for dinner parties.
• Top with Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and an extra layer of golden goodness.

Green Bean Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble the ingredients in the dish, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the oven.
• Use a Deeper Dish: If you like a thicker casserole, use a deeper dish and add extra green beans, soup, and fried onions.
• Spice it Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make green bean casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator before baking and add the crispy fried onions just before putting it in the oven.

Q: Can I freeze green bean casserole?
A: Green bean casserole can be frozen, but the texture of the green beans and sauce may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, assemble the casserole without the fried onions, and add them fresh when reheating.

Q: How can I make the casserole gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free crispy onions for a gluten-free version.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy topping.

Conclusion

The traditional green bean casserole is an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that will forever hold a special place in holiday feasts and weeknight dinners alike. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try out some of the variations, your guests are sure to be impressed. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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