Classic Green Bean Casserole
A beloved American Thanksgiving classic, this casserole features tender green beans enveloped in a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crispy fried onions for a delightful textural contrast.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 lbs Green beans(Fresh or frozen (thawed) can be used. If using fresh, trim ends.)
- 2 10.5 oz cans Condensed cream of mushroom soup(Full-fat recommended for best flavor and texture.)
- 1/2 cup Milk(Whole milk is preferred, but 2% can be used.)
- 1 tsp Soy sauce(Adds a subtle umami depth. Can substitute with Worcestershire sauce.)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper(Freshly ground is best, to taste.)
- 1.5 cups (about 5 oz) French fried onions(Divided. Use store-bought for convenience.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Cook the green beans: If using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling salted water for 5-7 minutes until they are bright green and crisp-tender. If using frozen, cook according to package directions until just tender. Drain the green beans thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 3
Prepare the creamy sauce: In a large bowl, combine the two cans of condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir until well combined and smooth. Add 1 cup of the French fried onions to the sauce and mix gently.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Combine and transfer: Add the drained green beans to the bowl with the mushroom sauce mixture. Stir gently to coat the beans evenly. Pour the entire mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 5
Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
⏱️ 20-25 minutes - 6
Add the crispy topping: Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes - 7
Serve hot: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use fresh green beans and blanch them yourself.
- ✓Avoid overcooking the green beans in step 2; they will continue to cook in the oven.
- ✓Ensure the French fried onions on top are golden brown and crispy for the best texture.
- ✓Taste the sauce mixture before adding to the beans and adjust seasoning (soy sauce, pepper) if needed.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a 'from scratch' version, make your own mushroom cream sauce using fresh mushrooms, flour, butter, and broth.
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the casserole mixture or sprinkle on top with the onions for a smoky, savory twist.
- Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or garlic into the sauce for added depth of flavor.