Green Bean Casserole

Introduction

Green Bean Casserole is a classic side dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners. With its creamy mushroom base and crispy French-fried onions, it’s a comforting and flavorful addition to any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 1/3 cups French-fried onions, divided
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (for extra flavor)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Green Beans: If using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 4-5 minutes until tender but still crisp, then drain. If using frozen green beans, thaw them according to the package instructions and drain.
3. Mix the Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and 2/3 cup of the French-fried onions. Stir in the cooked green beans and optional grated cheddar cheese.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the green bean mixture into a 9×9-inch (or similar size) baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbly.
6. Add Fried Onions: After 25 minutes, sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup of French-fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden and crispy.
7. Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish alongside your favorite holiday or weeknight meals!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Green Bean Casserole: Add 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese to the mixture before baking for a cheesy twist.
• Bacon Green Bean Casserole: Incorporate cooked bacon bits into the mixture for added flavor.
• Vegan Version: Use a vegan cream of mushroom soup and non-dairy milk. Substitute the French-fried onions with a vegan alternative or make a homemade crispy topping.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen? Yes, fresh green beans work great. Blanch them first for the best texture.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
3. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
4. What can I use instead of French-fried onions? You can use homemade crispy onion rings or bread crumbs for a different topping.
5. How do I make this casserole gluten-free? Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure that the French-fried onions are gluten-free.
6. Can I use a different type of soup? Yes, you can use cream of chicken soup or a different flavor of condensed soup if desired.
7. Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe? Yes, use non-dairy milk and a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup to make it dairy-free.
8. How can I add more protein to this dish? Stir in some cooked chicken or turkey, or use a vegetarian protein like tofu.
9. What can I serve with this casserole? It pairs well with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
10. Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker? Yes, cook on low for 4-5 hours. Add the French-fried onions during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

Green Bean Casserole is a beloved classic that never goes out of style. Its creamy, savory flavor combined with crispy onions makes it a standout side dish for any special occasion or family dinner. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or explore variations, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your next meal.

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