Introduction

Green Bean Casserole is a classic comfort dish perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings. This recipe combines tender green beans with creamy mushroom soup and crispy fried onions for a deliciously satisfying side.

A baked casserole in a white oval dish with a thick, golden-brown crispy topping made of fried onions, covering a creamy, light beige layer filled with green peas and small pieces of chicken; a wooden spoon rests inside the dish, partially scooping out a portion that shows the creamy mixture beneath the crispy top. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a metal cooling rack partially visible beside it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons table salt
2 pounds fresh green beans, ends trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
21 ounces cream of mushroom soup (store-bought or homemade, about 2 cans)
¾ cup milk or half and half or heavy cream
1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce
2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
6 ounces crispy fried onions, divided (about 1 container; French’s recommended)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F and place the oven rack in the middle position. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large Dutch oven, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil. Add 2 tablespoons of table salt and the prepared green beans. Cook until the beans are barely crisp or tender, about 7 to 10 minutes, depending on your preference.
Step 3: While the beans are cooking, fill a large bowl with ice water and set it aside. When beans are cooked, drain them in a colander and immediately transfer them to the ice water to stop the cooking process.
Step 4: Once cooled, drain the beans again and spread them on paper towels to pat dry.
Step 5: In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of crushed crispy fried onions.
Step 6: Add the dried green beans to the soup mixture and stir until they are evenly coated. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 7: Pour the coated green bean mixture into the prepared casserole dish and bake for 20 minutes at 425°F.
Step 8: After 20 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and reduce the oven temperature to 350°F. Sprinkle the remaining fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 9: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier casserole, use heavy cream instead of milk.
Swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella or a Mexican cheese blend to change the flavor profile.
Add sautéed mushrooms or crispy bacon bits for extra richness.
Use fresh green beans for best texture; frozen green beans can be substituted but reduce the boiling time slightly.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through to keep the topping crispy. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate with a creamy green bean casserole. The bottom layer consists of bright green beans, cut into even pieces and spread out. On top of the green beans is a thick, white creamy sauce that covers most of them. Scattered on the top are crispy, golden brown fried onions, adding a crunchy texture and a touch of color contrast. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a striped cloth nearby, and a silver fork rests on the right side of the plate, partly under the casserole. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen green beans work well. Just reduce the boiling time to about 3-5 minutes since they are already partially cooked.

How do I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Add the crispy fried onions on top just before baking for best texture.