Green bean casserole is a beloved American side dish that's perfect for holiday dinners and family gatherings. You'll love its combination of tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions. Created in the 1950s by a Campbell's Soup Company employee, it quickly became a Thanksgiving staple. To make it, you'll mix green beans with cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper, then top it with French's Crispy Fried Onions before baking. It's easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. If you're curious about the history and variations of this comforting dish, there's more to discover.
Key Takeaways
- Green Bean Casserole is a classic American side dish featuring green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions.
- The dish was created in the 1950s by Dorcas Reilly, a Campbell's Soup Company employee, using common pantry ingredients.
- It's typically baked at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, resulting in a creamy texture with a crunchy topping.
- The recipe is versatile, allowing for variations such as adding cheese, bacon, or using fresh green beans instead of canned.
- Green Bean Casserole is a popular Thanksgiving staple, known for its comforting flavors and easy preparation.
History
A holiday staple, Green Bean Casserole has graced American dinner tables since the 1950s. You might be surprised to learn that this beloved dish was created by Campbell's Soup Company employee Dorcas Reilly in 1955. She was tasked with developing a recipe that used common pantry ingredients, including the company's Cream of Mushroom soup.
Reilly's creation quickly gained popularity, becoming a fixture at Thanksgiving dinners across the nation. The recipe's simplicity and affordability made it an instant hit with home cooks. You'll find that the original version calls for just six ingredients: green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and French-fried onions.
Over the years, you've probably encountered various adaptations of the classic recipe. Some cooks add cheese, bacon, or different types of mushrooms to put their own spin on the dish.
Despite these variations, the core elements remain the same, preserving the casserole's nostalgic appeal. Today, you'll still find Green Bean Casserole featured prominently in Campbell's marketing materials and on millions of holiday tables each year.
Recipe
Green bean casserole is a classic American side dish that has graced holiday tables for generations. This comforting and creamy casserole combines tender green beans with a rich mushroom sauce, all topped with crispy fried onions for a delightful texture contrast.
Originally created by Campbell's Soup Company in 1955, this dish has become a beloved staple in many households. Its simplicity and crowd-pleasing flavor make it a perfect addition to Thanksgiving dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings throughout the year.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups cooked cut green beans
- 1 1/3 cups French's Crispy Fried Onions, divided
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir in the green beans and 2/3 cup of the crispy fried onions. Transfer the mixture to a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
Bake for 25 minutes, then remove from the oven and top with the remaining fried onions and shredded cheese if using. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
For the best results, use fresh green beans instead of canned ones. Blanch them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes before adding them to the casserole mixture.
To make this dish ahead of time, prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the initial baking time.
Cooking Steps
You're about to embark on the cooking journey for your Green Bean Casserole, and it's easier than you might think.
First, you'll preheat your oven and mix the beans with soup, creating the base of your casserole.
Then, you'll add the crispy fried onions and bake it all together, resulting in a delicious, hot dish that's ready to be enjoyed by all.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
Before diving into the preparation of your green bean casserole, turn on the oven and set it to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your casserole cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown crust.
Preheating typically takes about 10-15 minutes, giving you ample time to gather ingredients and start assembling your dish.
While the oven's warming up, here's why 350°F is the ideal temperature for this classic side:
- It's hot enough to cook the casserole thoroughly without burning the top
- It allows the flavors to meld together slowly
- It creates a crispy texture for the French fried onions on top
Step 2. Mix Beans and Soup
Now that your oven is preheating, it's time to mix the main ingredients. You'll need two key components for this classic casserole: green beans and cream of mushroom soup.
Start by draining two 14.5-ounce cans of green beans, or if you're using fresh beans, make sure they're cleaned and trimmed. Pour the beans into a large mixing bowl.
Next, open a 10.5-ounce can of cream of mushroom soup and add it to the bowl with the green beans. This condensed soup will create a rich, creamy base for your casserole. As you mix, you'll notice how the soup coats the beans, ensuring every bite will be full of flavor.
For extra creaminess and flavor, consider these additions:
- 1/4 cup of milk to thin the soup slightly
- 1/2 teaspoon of soy sauce for umami depth
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper for a subtle kick
Use a spatula or large spoon to gently fold these ingredients together until they're well combined.
Be careful not to mash the green beans; you want them to retain their shape and texture in the finished dish.
Step 3. Add Crispy Fried Onions
The next step is to incorporate the crispy fried onions, which give the casserole its signature crunch and flavor. You'll want to use about 1 1/3 cups of these golden delights, reserving some for the topping later. Gently fold the onions into the green bean and soup mixture, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout.
These crispy fried onions aren't just any ordinary ingredient. They're a key component that elevates your casserole from good to great. Here's why they're so important:
- Texture: They provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup and tender beans.
- Flavor: Their savory, slightly sweet taste complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- Visual appeal: The golden-brown color adds an appetizing look to your dish.
When adding the onions, be careful not to crush them too much. You want to maintain their crispy texture as much as possible.
Once you've mixed them in, smooth the top of the casserole with a spatula. This will create an even surface for the final layer of onions you'll add later.
Step 4. Bake for 30 Minutes
With your casserole assembled, it's time to bake it to perfection. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the middle. Place your casserole dish on a baking sheet to catch any potential spills, then slide it into the preheated oven.
Set your timer for 30 minutes and let the magic happen. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the crispy onions will turn a beautiful golden brown. The cream of mushroom soup will bubble and thicken, coating the green beans in a velvety sauce.
Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. If you notice the top browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
After 30 minutes, check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center. It should come out hot, and the casserole should be bubbling around the edges.
Once it's finished baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven using oven mitts. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to portion and serve.
Step 5. Serve Hot and Enjoy
Serving time has arrived for your delicious green bean casserole. After removing it from the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. This brief resting period also ensures you won't burn your tongue on the first bite!
Now, it's time to plate your masterpiece. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Use a large spoon to scoop generous portions onto plates
- Garnish with extra crispy fried onions for added crunch
- Pair with your main course, such as roasted turkey or ham
Remember, green bean casserole is best enjoyed hot. The combination of creamy sauce, tender green beans, and crispy onion topping is at its peak when warm. If you're serving buffet-style, consider using a warming tray to maintain the ideal temperature.
As you savor each bite, you'll appreciate how the flavors have melded during baking. The mushroom soup has transformed into a rich, velvety sauce, while the green beans retain a slight crispness.
Don't be surprised if your guests ask for seconds – this classic dish is known for its comforting, crowd-pleasing appeal!
Final Thoughts
Green bean casserole remains a beloved holiday staple for good reason. It's a dish that perfectly balances comfort and tradition with ease of preparation. As you've seen, making this classic side doesn't require advanced culinary skills, yet it never fails to impress guests and satisfy cravings.
Remember, the beauty of green bean casserole lies in its versatility. Don't be afraid to experiment with different variations or add your own personal touch. You might try using fresh green beans instead of canned, or swapping out the cream of mushroom soup for a homemade sauce. Some cooks even like to add bacon or cheese for extra flavor and richness.
Whether you're preparing this dish for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, it's sure to be a hit. The combination of crisp-tender green beans, creamy sauce, and crunchy fried onions creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that's hard to resist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Green Bean Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can definitely make green bean casserole ahead of time!
It's a great dish for prepping in advance, which can be a real time-saver during busy holiday seasons.
Here's what you can do:
- Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours before baking
- Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil
- Store in the refrigerator
- When ready to serve, remove the covering
- Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's cold from the fridge
This method ensures a fresh-tasting casserole without last-minute stress!
What Are Good Substitutes for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
You've got several tasty options to replace cream of mushroom soup in your recipes.
Try cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a similar consistency. If you're looking for a homemade alternative, make a roux with butter and flour, then add milk or broth for a creamy base.
You can also blend cooked cauliflower with milk for a healthier option.
Don't forget about Greek yogurt or sour cream mixed with broth – they'll give you that creamy texture you're after.
How Long Does Leftover Green Bean Casserole Last in the Refrigerator?
When it comes to leftover casseroles, you'll want to be mindful of food safety. Generally, you can keep your leftover casserole in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Make sure you store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent contamination. It's best to refrigerate your leftovers within two hours of cooking.
When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat it thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's safe to eat.
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh Ones?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen green beans instead of fresh ones in your recipe.
They're a great time-saving alternative and often more convenient. When using frozen beans, you don't need to thaw them first – just add them directly to your dish.
Keep in mind that frozen beans may release more water during cooking, so you might want to reduce any added liquid in your recipe.
They'll cook faster than fresh beans, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Is It Possible to Make a Vegan Version of Green Bean Casserole?
Yes, you can definitely make a vegan version of green bean casserole!
You'll need to replace a few key ingredients with plant-based alternatives. Use vegan cream of mushroom soup or make your own with plant milk and mushrooms.
Swap out dairy milk for almond or soy milk. Instead of traditional fried onions, try making your own with thinly sliced onions coated in flour and baked until crispy.
With these simple substitutions, you'll have a delicious vegan-friendly casserole that everyone can enjoy! You can enjoy the delicious butternut squash casserole recipe by replacing traditional dairy products with plant-based alternatives. Try using a dairy-free cheese and non-dairy milk to create a creamy and satisfying dish. Additionally, you can add extra flavor and texture by incorporating seasonings and a variety of vegetables into the casserole. With these simple swaps and additions, you can create a flavorful and satisfying vegan-friendly casserole that everyone will love.
Rachel is all about nostalgic comfort food with a modern twist. She brings the flavors of classic American diners to Cook if Ya, with her takes on burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Rachel’s love for simple, hearty meals brings a bit of retro flair to the table, reminding us all of the joys of classic diner dishes.
