Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a timeless comfort dish that brings creamy, savory, and crunchy elements together in perfect harmony. It’s made with tender green beans, a velvety mushroom sauce, and a crispy onion topping for that irresistible crunch. This beloved classic has graced countless holiday tables and remains a staple for gatherings year-round.

Simple yet indulgent, this casserole requires minimal ingredients and effort while delivering maximum flavor. Whether made for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family dinner, it’s a crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats and mashed potatoes.

From its creamy interior to its golden onion topping, every bite of green bean casserole delivers nostalgia, warmth, and delicious satisfaction. It’s the definition of classic comfort food—easy to make, serve, and enjoy.

Ingredients List

– 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of mushroom soup
– ¾ cup whole milk
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups cooked or canned green beans (drained)
– 1 cup French fried onions, divided
– ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness)
– Salt to taste
– ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
– ¼ teaspoon onion powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a medium casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until smooth and fully mixed.

Step 3: Add the cooked or canned green beans to the mixture and stir until evenly coated. If you’re using cheese, mix in half of it now for extra creaminess.

Step 4: Transfer the green bean mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

Step 5: Sprinkle half of the French fried onions evenly over the top. This layer will add crunch and flavor throughout the casserole.

Step 6: Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbling around the edges.

Step 7: Remove the dish from the oven, stir gently, and then top with the remaining onions (and cheese, if desired).

Step 8: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.

Step 9: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to help it set. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings

Serves 6–8

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

Calories: 240
Carbs: 18g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 15g

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the onions soggy.

Pairings/Suggestions

Green bean casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, ham, or chicken. It’s also great alongside mashed potatoes, stuffing, or dinner rolls for a complete comfort meal. For a twist, add crumbled bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

Seasonal Relevance

This classic dish shines during the fall and winter months, especially for Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts. It’s also a great year-round side dish for potlucks, Sunday dinners, and comfort food nights when you crave something creamy and hearty.

Health Benefits

Green beans are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, which supports digestion and heart health. To make the casserole lighter, you can use low-fat cream of mushroom soup and skim milk. Fresh or steamed green beans also retain more nutrients compared to canned. By using baked onions or air-fried toppings, you can reduce fat without losing that signature crunch.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Quick and easy to prepare	Can be high in sodium with canned soup
Family and holiday favorite	Onions may lose crispiness when reheated
Customizable with add-ins	Not ideal for dairy-free diets unless modified
Great make-ahead dish	Needs oven space during big meals

Conclusion

This green bean casserole is creamy, crunchy, and utterly comforting—the perfect blend of flavor and texture. With its simple ingredients and effortless preparation, it’s a timeless side dish that never goes out of style. Ideal for holidays or everyday meals, it brings warmth and nostalgia to every table.

Whether you stick to the traditional version or customize it with cheese, bacon, or fresh beans, this recipe guarantees delicious results. Serve it hot and bubbling next to your favorite main dish, and watch it disappear in minutes.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes! Simply blanch fresh green beans for 5 minutes in boiling water, then drain before mixing them into the casserole.

Q2: How can I make this dairy-free?
Use a plant-based cream of mushroom soup and non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. The flavor remains creamy and delicious.

Q3: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Add the onions right before baking to keep them crispy.