What are the ingredients in a green bean casserole?

The classic version includes green beans, cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, French fried onions, salt, and pepper.

How to make Paula Deen green beans?

Paula Deen’s version typically includes fresh green beans, bacon, and a rich cheese sauce, adding an extra layer of Southern flavor.

Is it better to use frozen or canned green beans for green bean casserole?

Frozen green beans offer a balance between freshness and convenience, but canned green beans are great for quick assembly and tender results.

How many cans are 4 cups of green beans?

Typically, two (15 oz) cans of green beans will yield about 4 cups when drained.

Best Green Bean Casserole Recipe - Classic Comfort In 30 Minutes

Description

This green bean casserole recipe is a holiday staple, combining tender green beans in a creamy mushroom sauce with a crispy fried onion topping. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any cozy family meal, it’s easy to make and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients

Scale

2 (15 oz) cans of cut green beans, drained (or 1 lb fresh/frozen green beans, blanched)
1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or homemade version)
¾ cup whole milk
1 (2.8 oz) can French fried onions (or homemade fried shallots)
2 tbsp butter (for homemade sauce)
1 cup button mushrooms, sliced (for homemade sauce)
2 cloves garlic, minced (for homemade sauce)
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening homemade sauce)
1 cup chicken stock (for homemade sauce)
½ cup heavy cream (for homemade sauce)
1 tbsp soy sauce (optional for umami boost)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Prep the Green Beans: If using fresh or frozen, blanch the green beans in boiling salted water for 2-4 minutes, then shock them in an ice bath. Drain and set aside. If using canned beans, simply drain them.
Make the Mushroom Sauce (if Homemade):
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly to form a roux.
- Slowly pour in chicken stock and cream, whisking until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the green beans, mushroom sauce (or canned soup), milk, and half the fried onions. Season with salt and pepper.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Add Crispy Onion Topping: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the onions are golden brown.
Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary, if desired.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole (without the fried onion topping) up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Add the topping and bake when ready to serve.
Customization Options: Add bacon, shredded cheese, or switch the soup to cream of chicken for a different flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free mushroom soup and gluten-free fried onions or crispy shallots.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion (1/6 of the dish)
Calories: 213 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 410 mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 22mg

Keywords: Green bean casserole recipe, holiday side dish, Thanksgiving casserole, crispy fried onions, classic comfort food