When it comes to comfort food that brings people together, few dishes can stand up to the heartwarming Classic Green Bean Casserole. With its creamy texture and perfect blend of flavors, this dish is a go-to for families looking to create memorable meals without breaking the bank. Did you know that this casserole has roots that trace back to the 1950s when Campbell’s Soup introduced it as a way to promote their cream of mushroom soup? Since then, it’s been a staple at dinner tables across the nation, cherished for its simplicity and adaptability. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is perfect for you. It’s quick to prepare and family-friendly, with just a handful of ingredients that create a delicious result. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful dish!
If you enjoy Classic Green Bean Casserole, you’ll likely appreciate its cousin, the Broccoli and Cheese Casserole. Both are creamy, comforting, and perfect for any family gathering. So, why not explore both recipes? Your taste buds will thank you!
What is Classic Green Bean Casserole?
Ah, the Classic Green Bean Casserole! It seems like such a simple name for a dish that has captured so many hearts! But what’s the story behind it? The dish is primarily made of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crunchy fried onions. If you’ve ever wondered if you could make an entire meal from something green, this dish is your answer! Picture this: having a bowl of this luscious casserole might just convince you that eating your greens can be downright exciting! As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this casserole may just be the secret key! Don’t just take my word for it; give this recipe a try and see why everyone loves it!
Why You’ll Love This Classic Green Bean Casserole
There are three major reasons to love this Classic Green Bean Casserole. First, it’s all about that creamy sauce, blending together the richness of the cream of mushroom soup with tender green beans to create a sensational texture that everyone will enjoy. Second, making this dish at home is incredibly cost-effective; with just a few simple ingredients, you can feed a crowd without emptying your wallet. Third, let’s talk about those crunchy fried onions! They not only add texture but also a delightful flavor that elevates this casserole to star status at the dinner table. If you’re a fan of creamy and baked dishes, you might also like our Mashed Potatoes with Gravy—equally comforting and delicious! So stop what you’re doing and gather the ingredients for this glorious dish today!
How to Make Classic Green Bean Casserole
Quick Overview
Making Classic Green Bean Casserole is as easy as pie— and without the fuss! This dish combines simplicity with deliciousness, making it a favorite for busy families. With a total preparation time of around 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a delightful side dish. You’ll love how the creamy sauce envelopes the green beans, and if you’ve got leftovers, they’ll be just as tasty the next day!
Key Ingredients for Classic Green Bean Casserole
To whip up this delightful casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Green Beans: 2 (14.5 oz) cans of cut green beans or 4 cups of fresh green beans, trimmed.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz) for that creamy base.
- Milk: ½ cup to thin out the soup and add richness.
- Soy Sauce: 1 teaspoon to enhance the flavor depth.
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon for a bit of spice.
- Fried Onions: 1 ½ cups for topping and that irresistible crunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper until smooth.
- Drain the green beans and add them to the mixture, stirring everything gently until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 1.5-quart casserole dish.
- Bake in the oven for 25 minutes, until it’s bubbly around the edges!
- Remove from the oven and stir the casserole. Sprinkle the fried onions on top.
- Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy the smiles around your dinner table!
Top Tips for Perfecting Classic Green Bean Casserole
To ensure your Classic Green Bean Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips:
- Fresh Green Beans: If you opt for fresh green beans, make sure to blanch and cut them before adding them to the casserole. This step ensures they remain tender yet crisp after baking.
- Creamy Consistency: If you want a richer sauce, consider adding a splash more milk or even cream! This little addition will elevate the dish wonderfully.
- Adjust the Crunch: If you’re seeking extra crunch, feel free to add more fried onions on top or even incorporate some crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a unique twist.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to add the fried onions before baking!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (though highly unlikely!), storing your Classic Green Bean Casserole is super easy. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container; it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to dig in again, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, heating in 30-second intervals until hot.
So, what are you waiting for? Embrace the deliciousness of Classic Green Bean Casserole, and let it shine at your family meals! You’re just a few ingredients away from a comforting dish that everyone will adore!
Classic Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans 14.5 oz cans of cut green beans Or 4 cups of fresh green beans, trimmed.
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup Provides creaminess and flavor.
- 0.5 cup milk To thin out the soup and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce Enhances flavor depth.
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper For a bit of spice.
- 1.5 cups fried onions For topping and added crunch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper until smooth.
- Drain the green beans and add them to the mixture, stirring everything gently until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 1.5-quart casserole dish.
Baking
- Bake in the oven for 25 minutes, until it’s bubbly around the edges!
- Remove from the oven and stir the casserole. Sprinkle the fried onions on top.
- Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown.
Serving
- Serve hot and enjoy the smiles around your dinner table!
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