There are few side dishes as iconic and comforting as a traditional Green Bean Casserole. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy Sunday dinner, this creamy, crispy-topped classic is always a crowd-pleaser. Made with tender green beans, a rich mushroom sauce, and crunchy fried onions, this casserole is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor.
Let’s walk through how to make this beloved dish and explore some tips, variations, and frequently asked questions to make it truly yours.
Why You’ll Love This Green Bean Casserole
Quick prep: 10 minutes of hands-on time
Uses simple pantry staples
Perfect for holidays and potlucks
Make-ahead and freezer friendly
Ingredients You’ll Need
4 cups cooked green beans (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
3/4 cup milk
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for cheesy version)
1 1/3 cups crispy fried onions, divided
🛒 Tip: Fresh green beans that are blanched give the casserole a fresher bite, while canned green beans provide that nostalgic texture many grew up with.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish or medium-sized casserole dish.
Step 2: Mix the filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth. Add the green beans and half of the crispy onions. If using cheese, mix it in here.
Step 3: Assemble
Pour the mixture into your prepared dish. Spread it out evenly. Bake for 25 minutes.
Step 4: Add the topping
Carefully remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top, and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Optional Add-Ins & Variations
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole: Stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan for a richer flavor.
Bacon bits: Add cooked bacon for a savory crunch.
Fresh mushrooms: Sauté with garlic and mix into the sauce.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free fried onions and a homemade mushroom sauce.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make Ahead: Assemble without the fried onion topping and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add onions and bake when ready.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze assembled (without the onion topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, add topping, and bake.
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FAQs: Green Bean Casserole
Can I use canned green beans?
Yes! Use two 14.5 oz cans of green beans, drained well. The texture will be softer, which many people enjoy.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can make a homemade white sauce using butter, flour, milk, and sautéed mushrooms. Or use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup as an alternative.
Can I make green bean casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble everything except the crispy onions up to one day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add the onions and bake before serving.
How do I keep fried onions crispy?
Wait to add them until the last 5–10 minutes of baking. This prevents sogginess and keeps them crunchy.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! This recipe easily doubles for large gatherings. Use a larger casserole dish and add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
Final Thoughts
Green bean casserole is the ultimate nostalgic side dish that delivers comfort, flavor, and versatility in every bite. Whether you’re keeping it classic or putting your own spin on it with cheese or bacon, this casserole deserves a spot at your table.
Serve it at your next holiday dinner or any time you’re craving something creamy and crispy — it never disappoints.