Green Bean Casserole is a classic comfort food that brings together tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and a crispy topping of fried onions. It’s a warm, satisfying dish that’s both simple and full of flavor, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
I love making this casserole because it feels like a cozy hug on a plate. The creamy sauce and crunchy onions create such a great mix of textures, and it’s always a hit with everyone at the table. I like to use fresh green beans when I can, but the canned ones work just fine in a pinch, making it easy to whip up anytime.
Whenever I serve this dish, I make sure to let it cool just a bit so the sauce sets up nicely. It’s the kind of side that pairs perfectly with just about any main course, especially roasted turkey or ham. Plus, leftovers are fantastic the next day, so I always make sure to have plenty to go around!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans add a bright, crisp texture, but canned or frozen work well if you’re short on time. Just be sure to drain and pat canned beans dry to avoid a soggy casserole.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the backbone of the creamy sauce. If you want a homemade touch, you can make a simple mushroom sauce with sautéed mushrooms, butter, flour, and milk.
French Fried Onions: The crispy topping is essential! Store-bought onions save time, but you can also make your own by thinly slicing onions and frying them until golden.
Soy Sauce: Adds a little depth and umami to the sauce. If you need a soy-free option, a splash of Worcestershire sauce or tamari works well too.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Onion Topping?
The secret to a crispy onion topping is timing and moisture control:
- Mix only part of the fried onions into the casserole before baking to keep some texture inside.
- Sprinkle the rest on top toward the end of baking (last 5 minutes) so they stay crisp and golden.
- Avoid covering the casserole while baking to prevent steam from softening the onions.
I like to gently stir the casserole after baking before adding the final onion layer. This helps the sauce thicken evenly without making the topping soggy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 1 1/2-quart casserole dish – perfect size for baking and serving the casserole evenly.
- Mixing bowl – easy for combining the soup, milk, and seasonings without making a mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps you get the right balance of ingredients every time.
- Spoon or spatula – useful for stirring the mixture and spreading it smoothly in the dish.
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot casserole dish when removing it from the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky, savory boost that pairs great with the creamy sauce.
- Mix in shredded cheddar cheese before baking for extra cheesy goodness.
- Swap green beans for steamed broccoli or asparagus to change up the veggie base.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or a few minced garlic cloves for a deeper, earthier flavor.
Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups cooked green beans (fresh, steamed, or canned and drained)
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions (divided)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of baking. So overall, you’ll spend around 40 minutes from start to finish to make this creamy, comforting dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready once your casserole is mixed and assembled.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper until smooth and combined.
3. Combine the Green Beans and Onions:
Add your cooked green beans and two-thirds of the French fried onions into the sauce. Stir gently so everything is coated nicely.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Spread the mixture in a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes until it’s bubbling hot.
5. Add the Crispy Topping:
Take the casserole out, give it a gentle stir, then sprinkle the remaining one-third of the onions evenly on top. Pop it back into the oven for 5 more minutes to brown the onions perfectly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. The creamy sauce and crunchy onions make it a delicious side everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans for the Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing to avoid extra moisture that can make the casserole soggy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if the sauce looks too thick.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
What Can I Use Instead of Soy Sauce?
If you prefer soy-free, try a splash of Worcestershire sauce or tamari for a similar umami flavor boost.
