There’s something special about the dishes that remind you of home—of the warmth of family gatherings, the laughter around the dinner table, and the comfort of good food.
Green Bean Casserole is one of those dishes for me. I still remember the first time I helped my grandmother prepare it.
The smell of creamy mushrooms and the sizzle of crispy onions filled the kitchen, making it feel like the holidays had come early.
It wasn’t just the flavor that made it memorable, though. It was the way it brought everyone together, how each bite felt like a little piece of tradition passed down through the generations.
Even though the recipe is simple, there’s magic in how it brings the perfect balance of textures and tastes.
And it’s one of those dishes that doesn’t need to be fancy to make an impact—it’s the kind of comforting food that makes you feel like you belong, no matter where you are.
So, whether you’re making it for a holiday or just because you need a quick, satisfying side, green bean casserole is sure to bring a little warmth to your table, just like it has for me over the years.
Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cans (14.5oz each) French-cut green beans, drained
- 1 can (10oz) mushroom soup
- 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour the drained green beans into an 8×11-inch casserole dish.
- In a bowl, mix together the mushroom soup, almond milk, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and half of the fried onions. Stir well until the sauce is smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the green beans in the casserole dish. Stir to coat the beans evenly.
- Place the dish in the oven on the middle rack. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the onions are crispy and the casserole is bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations Of Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is wonderfully flexible, and you can switch up the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few ways to make it your own:
- Add cheese: Sprinkle some cheddar or parmesan on top for a cheesy twist.
- Swap the soup: Use a homemade mushroom sauce or swap in a creamy soup like cream of chicken for different flavors.
- Include bacon: Adding crispy bacon pieces can bring a salty crunch to the dish.
- Use different vegetables: You can mix in mushrooms, corn, or even carrots for added color and flavor.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free fried onions and a gluten-free cream soup option.
What To Serve With Green Bean Casserole?
Looking for ideas on what to pair with your green bean casserole? Here are a few simple options that go great alongside it:
- Roasted turkey or chicken
- Mashed potatoes
- Cranberry sauce
- Dinner rolls
- Salad with vinaigrette
- Stuffing or dressing
- Gravy
How To Store Green Bean Casserole?
Green bean casserole can be easily stored for later, whether you have leftovers or want to prep it in advance. Here’s how:
- In the fridge: Once it’s cooled down, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- In the freezer: For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to allow it to cool completely before freezing.
When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s heated through.
How Do You Keep Green Bean Casserole From Getting Mushy?
The key to avoiding a mushy casserole is to manage the texture of the green beans and the sauce. Here’s how to keep it just right:
- Don’t overcook the beans: If you’re using fresh green beans, lightly steam or blanch them before adding them to the casserole. This helps them keep their crispness.
- Use less liquid: Avoid using too much cream or soup—this will help keep the casserole from getting too watery.
- Bake uncovered: Baking it uncovered allows the excess moisture to evaporate, helping to keep the casserole from becoming soggy.
- Add the fried onions at the end: Only sprinkle the crispy onions on top near the end of baking to avoid them becoming too soft or soggy.
Is Green Bean Casserole Better With Canned Or Fresh?
When making Green Bean Casserole, you might wonder if fresh or canned green beans are the best choice. Both options work, but here’s what to consider:
- Canned green beans: They’re easy and quick to use. If you’re short on time, canned green beans are a good option. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
- Fresh green beans: Fresh green beans give a firmer texture and slightly more vibrant taste. They require more prep work, like trimming and blanching, but the extra effort can be worth it for a fresher, crisper dish.
Both options can create a tasty casserole—it’s all about your preference for texture and convenience.
