Green Bean Casserole Recipe: The Ultimate Classic Side Dish for Every Occasion
Green bean casserole is a timeless American favorite, especially popular during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. This dish combines tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions for a mouthwatering blend of textures and flavors. Its simplicity and rich taste make it an easy crowd-pleaser that fits perfectly alongside any main course.
Classic Green Bean Casserole Ingredients
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1½ to 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and halved (or drained canned green beans)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil
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16 ounces sliced cremini or button mushrooms
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3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced
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2 cans (10.5 ounces each) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or homemade mushroom sauce)
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½ to 1 cup milk or half-and-half for creaminess
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1 tablespoon soy sauce for umami depth
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
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1 cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese (optional, adds richness)
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1 to 1½ cups French fried onions for the iconic crunchy topping
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Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Preparation
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Preheat the Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare the Green Beans: Blanch fresh green beans in boiling salted water for 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender, then plunge into ice water to stop cooking and preserve color. Drain well.
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Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic: Melt butter or heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until golden and moisture evaporates (~5-7 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook 1-2 minutes.
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Make the Sauce: Stir in soup, milk, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and cheese if using. Simmer gently until thickened.
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Combine: Mix the blanched green beans with the mushroom sauce. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
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Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour mixture into a casserole dish. Top evenly with French fried onions.
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Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden. For extra crisp, add more fried onions during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
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Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Variations
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Use fresh or frozen green beans for best texture; canned beans work for convenience but may be softer.
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For a scratch-made version, make your own creamy mushroom sauce using butter, flour, milk, and sautéed mushrooms.
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Add crumbled cooked bacon or toasted almonds for added flavor and texture.
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Incorporate miso paste into the sauce for a savory boost.
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Make the crispy onion topping from scratch by thinly slicing onions, tossing with oil and breadcrumbs, and baking until golden.
Why Green Bean Casserole Remains a Holiday Staple
This casserole’s enduring popularity comes from its delicious contrast of creamy and crunchy elements, ease of preparation, and nostalgic charm. It’s a versatile dish that complements a wide variety of mains, from turkey to ham, and appeals to all ages. The hallmark crispy onion topping adds a satisfying crunch that makes every bite delightful.
In summary, Green Bean Casserole is quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and delightfully comforting, making it a must-have recipe for holiday tables and family dinners year-round. Its perfect balance of flavors and textures delivers a classic taste that’s hard to beat. Try this recipe for your next festive gathering to enjoy a beloved American tradition that’s as delicious as it is simple to make.