If you’re looking for a side dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to your dining table, look no further than this classic green bean casserole. It’s the kind of dish that instantly transports you to family gatherings and holiday celebrations, where every bite is a comforting reminder of home.
This casserole is a delightful combination of tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions. It’s a dish that balances flavors and textures beautifully, making it a perennial favorite. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving or a casual weeknight dinner, it always hits the spot.
Easy to assemble and bake, this recipe allows you to create a delicious side dish with minimal effort. Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to different tastes—feel free to add your personal twist with spices or additional toppings.
Ingredients That Shine
The heart of a green bean casserole lies in its simple yet impactful ingredients. Fresh green beans are the star, adding a vibrant color and a satisfying crunch.
Combined with a creamy mushroom sauce, they create a hearty base that captivates the palate. The addition of crispy fried onions not only enhances the flavor but also provides a delightful textural contrast.
These elements work together harmoniously, ensuring that each bite is both nourishing and delightful, making it a beloved dish during any meal.
The Art of Preparation
Preparing this dish is a straightforward process that begins with blanching fresh green beans. This technique helps preserve their brilliant color and tender-crisp texture, ensuring they remain the focal point of the casserole.
Once blanched, the beans are combined with a creamy mixture that includes condensed soup, milk, and seasoning. This blending creates a rich sauce that envelops the green beans beautifully.
Incorporating half of the crispy fried onions into the mixture adds depth to the dish, while the remaining onions, reserved for topping, promise a satisfying crunch when baked until golden.
Baking to Perfection
After combining all the ingredients, the casserole is poured into a greased baking dish and placed in a preheated oven. The baking process allows the flavors to meld together while the creamy sauce bubbles invitingly around the green beans.
As the casserole bakes, the anticipation grows, culminating in a delightful aroma that fills the kitchen. This is the moment when you can almost taste the comforting flavors and textures that await.
Serving Suggestions
Once the casserole is out of the oven, it should rest for a few moments to allow the flavors to settle. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or even an everyday meal.
It can be served alongside a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to vegetarian options. The beautiful presentation in a rustic dish enhances the homey feel, making it an inviting centerpiece on any dining table.
Variations to Explore
One of the joys of making a green bean casserole is the flexibility it offers for personalization. While the classic recipe is beloved, there are numerous ways to put a twist on this dish.
Consider adding cheese for a richer flavor, or even incorporating other vegetables for added color and nutrition. Spices can also elevate the dish, providing a unique touch that reflects your taste preferences.
Nutritional Insights
Despite its creamy richness, this casserole remains a relatively light side option. Each serving provides essential nutrients, making it a thoughtful choice for those mindful of their dietary intake.
With a balanced mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, it complements a variety of meals while still delivering comforting flavors. Sharing this dish at your table not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body.
The Ultimate Green Bean Casserole
This green bean casserole recipe features fresh green beans coated in a rich, creamy sauce, topped with crunchy fried onions. The dish is savory, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it a satisfying addition to any meal.
Perfectly seasoned and delightfully crunchy, this casserole balances the freshness of green beans with a luscious sauce that ties everything together, creating a symphony of taste in each serving.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
- 1 and 1/2 cups crispy fried onions divided
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blanch the Green Beans: In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the green beans for about 5 minutes until bright green. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the blanched green beans, the creamy sauce, half of the crispy fried onions, and cheese if using. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Add Topping: Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the onions are golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this comforting side dish with your favorite meal!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
