This classic green bean casserole is a simple, satisfying side dish perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a comforting family dinner. Made with tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Minimal ingredients and only 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Classic Flavor: The creamy mushroom sauce and crispy onions create a nostalgic and delicious combination.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with fresh green beans, extra seasonings, or alternative toppings.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From Thanksgiving to weeknight dinners, this dish fits every table.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 (14½ oz) cans green beans, drained
- 1 (10½ oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 (6 oz) can fried onions
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with cooking spray. - Combine Green Beans and Onions
In a large bowl, toss the drained green beans with ¾ cup of fried onions. - Prepare the Sauce
In a small saucepan, heat the cream of mushroom soup and milk over medium heat for 2 minutes. Whisk until smooth and well combined. - Assemble the Casserole
Pour the soup mixture over the green bean and onion mixture. Gently toss to coat evenly, then transfer to the prepared baking dish. - Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. - Add the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining fried onions generously over the top of the casserole. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden and crispy. - Serve Warm
Serve immediately while the casserole is warm and the topping is crunchy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6 servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Fresh Green Beans: Use fresh or frozen green beans instead of canned for a fresher flavor. Blanch fresh beans before mixing.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce for a cheesy upgrade.
- Bacon Addition: Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the green bean mixture for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free fried onions and ensure the soup is gluten-free.
- Alternative Toppings: Try crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or Parmesan cheese as a topping.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
- Freezing: The casserole can be frozen (without the fried onion topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake with fresh onions before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole without the topping, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the fried onions and bake just before serving.
2. Can I use fresh green beans?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans provide a firmer texture and vibrant flavor. Blanch them first for the best results.
3. What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
Use cream of chicken, cream of celery, or a homemade white sauce for a different flavor.
4. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too watery?
Drain the green beans thoroughly before mixing and ensure the sauce is well-thickened.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish. Adjust baking time if necessary.
6. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure the cream of mushroom soup does not contain meat-based ingredients.
7. How do I keep the topping crispy?
Add the fried onions only during the last 5 minutes of baking to maintain their crunch.
8. Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?
Yes, unsweetened almond milk works as a dairy-free alternative.
9. What other seasonings can I add?
Enhance the flavor with garlic powder, black pepper, or a pinch of nutmeg.
10. Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, mix in other vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or corn for added variety.
Conclusion
This Easy Green Bean Casserole is a timeless side dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. With its creamy mushroom sauce and crispy onion topping, it’s a recipe that’s simple to make yet impressively delicious. Try it for your next holiday dinner or weeknight meal, and watch it disappear from the table!
PrintEasy Green Bean Casserole
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy green bean casserole is a classic, creamy side dish perfect for holidays or any occasion. Quick to make, it’s a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 (14 1/2 oz) cans green beans, drained
- 1 (10 1/2 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 (6 oz) can fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray an 8×8 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Combine the green beans and onions:
- In a large bowl, mix the drained green beans with ¾ cup of fried onions. Toss gently to combine.
- Prepare the creamy sauce:
- In a small saucepan, heat the cream of mushroom soup and milk over medium heat for about 2 minutes, whisking until smooth. Pour the sauce over the green bean mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Assemble the casserole:
- Transfer the green bean mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Add the topping:
- Sprinkle the remaining fried onions over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the onions are golden and crispy.
- Serve warm:
- Serve immediately as a comforting side dish for any meal.
Notes
- For a fresher twist, use steamed fresh or frozen green beans instead of canned.
- Add a pinch of garlic powder or black pepper to the sauce for extra flavor.
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