Green Bean Casserole

Introduction

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about a classic Green Bean Casserole. Every holiday season, the aroma of this comforting dish fills our home, bringing back memories of family gatherings and laughter around the dinner table. My family loves this dish, often asking for seconds (or thirds!) when it’s served. It’s the perfect blend of creamy green beans, savory mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions, creating a delightful texture and flavor that pairs beautifully with any main course. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a casual family dinner, this casserole never fails to please.

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)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure your casserole bakes evenly.

Cook the Green Beans

• Fresh Beans: If using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 4-5 minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain them thoroughly.
• Frozen Beans: If using frozen green beans, thaw them according to the package instructions and drain any excess moisture.

Mix the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and 2/3 cup of the French-fried onions. Stir until everything is well mixed. Then, gently fold in the cooked green beans and, if desired, the optional grated cheddar cheese for an extra flavor boost.

Assemble the Casserole

Pour the green bean mixture into a 9×9-inch (or similar size) baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This ensures that every bite is filled with deliciousness!

Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the mixture is hot and bubbly.

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.

Serve

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This dish is perfect alongside your favorite holiday or weeknight meals!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories: Approximately 180 per serving
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 5mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 19g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve as a side dish for holiday meals.
• Pair with roast turkey or ham.
• Enjoy alongside mashed potatoes and gravy.
• Add to a potluck or family gathering spread.
• Serve with a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Make it Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
2. Swap Ingredients: Use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom for a different flavor.
3. Add More Veggies: Consider adding mushrooms or carrots to the casserole for added nutrition and flavor.
4. Make it Healthier: Use low-fat or dairy-free alternatives for the soup and milk.
5. Crispier Onions: For extra crunch, bake the onions separately and sprinkle them on top just before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Green Bean Casserole: Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesier version.
• Asian-Inspired: Replace soy sauce with teriyaki sauce and add sliced water chestnuts for a unique twist.
• Herbed Casserole: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with protein-rich dishes like grilled chicken, pork chops, or beef roasts.
• Serve with a side of cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
• Complement with fluffy dinner rolls or cornbread.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Storing: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen green beans?

• Yes, frozen green beans work perfectly in this recipe. Just thaw and drain them before using.

1. Is there a vegetarian version?

• Yes! The traditional recipe is vegetarian, as it uses cream of mushroom soup.

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

• Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and bake it just before serving.

1. What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

• You can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade white sauce as a substitute.

1. How can I make it gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free fried onions and ensure your soup is gluten-free.

1. Can I add meat to the casserole?

• Yes, cooked chicken or turkey can be added for a heartier dish.

1. How do I prevent the onions from burning?

• Add the fried onions in the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning.

1. Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned soup?

• Yes, sauté fresh mushrooms and combine them with cream and seasonings for a fresh option.

1. Is there a low-calorie version?

• You can reduce the amount of cheese, use low-fat soup, and replace heavy cream with low-fat milk.

1. Can I make this vegan?
   • Yes! Use vegan cream of mushroom soup and dairy-free milk, and skip the cheese.

Conclusion

Green Bean Casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a holiday tradition that brings people together. Its creamy texture and crispy topping create a delightful contrast that makes it a favorite on the dinner table. Whether served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can focus on what really matters: spending time with loved ones and creating cherished memories. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

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