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Green Bean Casserole Recipe Card

Classic green bean casserole topped with crispy golden onions in a ceramic baking dish, ideal for holiday meals

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Nutrition

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