Classic Green Bean Casserole: The Holiday Staple

The scent of Thanksgiving morning hangs in the air – a mix of cinnamon, roasting turkey, and that familiar, comforting aroma of creamy mushrooms. My grandmother, bless her heart, was a devoted Campbell’s Soup devotee, and her Green Bean Casserole was the undisputed star of every holiday meal. Even now, making it reminds me of bustling kitchens, loud laughter, and the simple joy of family gathered together.

It’s a dish that somehow manages to be both nostalgic and wonderfully satisfying, with its contrasting textures and rich, savory flavors. There’s a reason it’s a holiday table mainstay, and this recipe honors that tradition while offering a few simple tweaks for even better flavor. Because let’s face it, nobody wants a bland Green Bean Casserole. This one is bursting with flavor, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or really any potluck where comfort food is king.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• It’s a relatively quick and easy side dish.
• The creamy mushroom sauce is incredibly flavorful and comforting.
• The crispy fried onions on top provide a satisfying crunch.
• It’s a total crowd-pleaser, perfect for holiday gatherings.
• It’s a great way to use up fresh green beans or frozen if you want to.
• It’s a vegetarian dish that can easily be made vegan (see our variations).

Ingredients Breakdown:

• Green Beans: Fresh green beans are the best for texture and flavor, but frozen cut green beans are a perfectly acceptable and convenient substitute. Look for bright green, firm beans.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is a quintessential ingredient in Green Bean Casserole, providing the creamy base. While I’m using the classic condensed version, you can elevate the flavor by making your own homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup. Trust me, fresh is better.
• Milk: Adds moisture and thins the soup slightly. Whole milk provides the richest flavor, but you can use 2% or even unsweetened almond milk for a lighter version.
• Soy Sauce: A secret ingredient that adds umami and depth of flavor. A little goes a long way! Use low-sodium soy sauce to avoid making the casserole too salty.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice.
• Crispy Fried Onions: The iconic topping! Store-bought crispy fried onions are a convenient option, but if you’re feeling ambitious, you can make your own for an even more impressive Green Bean Casserole.
• Mushrooms (Optional): Adding sautéed mushrooms to the mix enhances the mushroom flavor, especially if using canned soup.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Optional): Cheeze it up!

Kitchen Tools Needed:

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

You can use a casserole dish if you do not have a baking dish.

How To Make It Green Bean Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. If using fresh green beans, trim and blanch them in boiling salted water for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside. This helps them retain their vibrant color and crisp-tender texture.
3. In a large skillet, sauté sliced mushrooms (if using) in butter or oil until softened and lightly browned. This adds a depth of flavor, as you can see the color getting darker.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth. If using, add the cooked mushrooms to the bowl.
5. Add the green beans (fresh or frozen) to the soup mixture and stir gently to coat evenly.
6. Pour the green bean mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
8. Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top.
9. If using, sprinkle shredded cheese over the crispy fried onions; be sure to cover the onions.
10. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the crispy fried onions are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Be sure not to burn the onion because 1.3 isn’t great!
11. Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before serving.
12. Enjoy your Classic Green Bean Casserole!

Pro Tips for Success:

• Don’t overcook the green beans! They should be crisp-tender, not mushy.
• Taste the soup mixture before adding the green beans and adjust seasonings as needed.
• For extra flavor, add a clove of minced garlic to the sautéed mushrooms.
• To prevent the crispy fried onions from burning, add them during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• If making ahead, assemble the casserole but don’t add the crispy fried onions until just before baking.
• For a richer flavor, use cream instead of milk.

Variations & Dietary Swaps:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free crispy fried onions. Also use gluten-free soy sauce.
• Vegan: Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a vegan version or a homemade cashew cream sauce. Use plant-based milk and omit the cheese or use vegan cheese.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup mixture for a touch of heat.
• Cheesy Green Bean Casserole: Add shredded cheddar cheese.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve alongside roasted turkey or chicken.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
• Pair with mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a complete holiday feast.

Storage & Reheating:

Store leftover Green Bean Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to avoid it drying out, or microwave individual portions. The crispy fried onions may lose some of their crunch upon reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions:

This Green Bean Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, bringing back fond memories and creating new ones. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, it’s a dish that’s sure to be a hit at your next holiday gathering.

Whip one up today! Happy cooking! What are some ways you like to eat a Green Bean Casserole? What additions and swaps do you like to do in your household? Sound off below! Tag @CulinaryCraving on Instagram and Facebook when you make this to be featured on the page!

Related Recipes:

• Sweet Potato Casserole: Another classic holiday side dish that pairs beautifully with Green Bean Casserole.
• Cranberry Sauce: Adds a touch of tartness to balance the richness of the casserole. Its vibrant color also adds to the festivities.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: This can be very filling. A comforting side dish that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.