Classic Green Bean Casserole

Green Bean Casserole is a beloved classic that has been a staple at holiday dinners and family gatherings for decades. This comforting dish features tender green beans coated in a rich, creamy sauce, topped with gooey cheese and crispy onions, then baked to perfection. It’s the ultimate side dish that combines creamy, crunchy, and savory elements into one delicious experience. Whether you're serving it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy family meal, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let's dive into this easy recipe that brings a touch of warmth and nostalgia to your table.

Ingredients for Classic Green Bean Casserole

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup French fried onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat Oven

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Blanch the Green Beans

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they are bright green and slightly tender. Drain and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce

   • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

4. Combine Ingredients

   • Add the cream of mushroom soup and milk to the skillet. Stir until well combined and smooth. Let the mixture heat through for a few minutes, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.

5. Mix and Assemble

   • Add the blanched green beans to the sauce and stir until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Bake

   • Transfer the green bean mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the French fried onions evenly over the top.

7. Final Bake

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the onions are golden brown.

8. Serve

   • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 6-8 people.

FAQs for Classic Green Bean Casserole

Q: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the casserole.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 2 days in advance. Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is traditional, you can use other types of cheese such as mozzarella, Gouda, or a cheese blend for different flavors.

Q: How do I make this dish gluten-free? A: Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check that the French fried onions are gluten-free or make your own crispy onions from scratch.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to the casserole? A: Feel free to customize your casserole with additional ingredients like cooked bacon, mushrooms, or sliced almonds for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Classic Green Bean Casserole is a timeless dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Its combination of tender green beans, creamy sauce, and crispy onions creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your table. With its easy preparation and satisfying taste, it’s a recipe that’s both delicious and dependable. Enjoy the warm, nostalgic comfort of homemade green bean casserole and make it a staple in your recipe collection.