When you think of a holiday meal, certain dishes just pop into your head. They are the ones that feel like a warm hug on a plate. For so many of us, that dish is a bubbling, creamy green bean casserole.
It’s a staple for a reason. It’s simple, comforting, and brings everyone to the table. We believe this is the Best Green Bean Casserole Thanksgiving recipe you will find. It’s easy enough for a beginner and delicious enough for everyone.
Jump To:
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There is something special about this dish. It is more than just a side. It’s a piece of holiday tradition that has been passed down for generations. It really is a Classic Green Bean Casserole.
You will love how incredibly easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you get a side dish that tastes like you spent hours on it. It’s a true holiday time saver.
The texture is what makes it so memorable. You get the soft, tender green beans mixed in a rich, savory cream sauce. Then, you have that amazing crunch from the French fried onions on top. It’s a wonderful contrast.
Ingredients
The beauty of this recipe is its short ingredient list. These are all easy to find items that come together to create something truly special. Let’s look at what you need.
- 2 (15 ounce) cans cut green beans, drained
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 (2.8 ounce) can French fried onions
- salt and ground black pepper to taste
Let’s talk a little more about these ingredients. For the green beans, canned are the classic choice. They provide the soft texture that is so familiar in this dish. Be sure to drain them well to avoid a watery casserole.
The condensed cream of mushroom soup is the heart of the sauce. It provides that savory, creamy base. Campbell’s is the brand most people associate with this Classic Green Bean Casserole, and for good reason.
Milk helps to thin the condensed soup. It creates a smooth sauce that coats every single green bean. Whole milk will give you a richer result, but any kind will work just fine.
Ah, the French fried onions. These are non negotiable! They are used both inside the casserole for flavor and on top for that signature crunch. They are truly the star of the show.
Finally, salt and ground black pepper. These simple seasonings round out all the flavors. You can adjust them to your personal preference right at the end.
Step By Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking. Following these simple steps will give you the Best Green Bean Casserole Thanksgiving has ever tasted. It’s super easy, I promise.
Step 1: Get Ready To Bake
First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F or 175 degrees C. This ensures your oven is nice and hot when the casserole is ready to go in. Also, grab your 1.5 quart casserole dish.
Now is a good time to gather all your ingredients. Open the cans and have everything measured out. This makes the whole process smooth and quick. It’s what the pros call ‘mise en place’!
Step 2: Mix Everything Together
In your casserole dish, combine the drained green beans, the condensed cream of mushroom soup, and the milk. Then, add about half of the French fried onions. Yes, right into the mix!
Why put onions inside? It adds another layer of savory onion flavor throughout the entire casserole, not just on top. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
This step truly shows how easy a Traditional Green Bean Casserole is. You just dump and stir. It’s a great recipe to get kids involved with in the kitchen.
Step 3: Bake Until Bubbly
Place the casserole dish into your preheated oven. Bake it for about 25 minutes. You are looking for it to be heated all the way through. The edges should be gently bubbling.
Your kitchen will start to fill with that amazing, comforting aroma. This is the scent of the holidays for so many people. It’s a key part of making the Best Green Bean Casserole Thanksgiving dinner complete.
Step 4: Add The Crispy Topping
After 25 minutes, carefully take the casserole out of the oven. Sprinkle the remaining French fried onions evenly over the top. This is the step that creates that golden, crunchy crust.
Don’t be shy with the onions! A generous layer is what makes this dish so good. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes. This is just long enough to make the onions golden brown and extra crispy.
Making the Best Green Bean Casserole Thanksgiving requires that perfect final touch, and this crispy topping is it.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once the topping is golden, remove the casserole from the oven. Season it with salt and pepper to your liking. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set up a little bit.
This brief rest is important. It keeps the casserole from being too runny when you serve it. Plus, it will be extremely hot right out of the oven. Now it’s ready to enjoy!
How To Store Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, storing them is easy. First, let the casserole cool down completely to room temperature. This is important for food safety.
Once cooled, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days.
When you are ready to reheat, the oven is your best bet. Reheating in the oven at 350 degrees F helps to crisp up the onion topping again. It usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
You can also use the microwave for a quicker option. Just know that the onion topping will lose its crunch and become soft. It will still taste great, but the texture will be different.
Can you freeze this casserole? It is possible, but the texture can change. The creamy sauce may separate a bit upon thawing. The green beans might become softer. It’s best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge.
If you do decide to freeze it, store it in a freezer safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven. This is for your leftover Best Green Bean Casserole Thanksgiving dish.
Tips
Want to make your green bean casserole even better? Here are a few simple tips and tricks. These can help you customize the dish to your liking.
For a richer flavor, add a bit of shredded cheddar cheese. You can mix about half a cup into the casserole before baking. Or, sprinkle it on top with the fried onions for a cheesy, crunchy topping.
If you want to add more layers of flavor, consider sautéing some fresh mushrooms and onions. Cook them in a little butter until soft and then mix them into the casserole. It adds a wonderful depth.
A dash of garlic powder or onion powder can also boost the savory taste. About a quarter teaspoon of each mixed into the soup mixture is plenty. It’s a small addition that makes a big difference.
Thinking about making it ahead of time? You totally can. Assemble the entire casserole without the final onion topping. Cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
If your sauce seems too thick, you can add another splash of milk. If it seems too thin, you can add a little less milk to start. You have control over the consistency.
While this recipe is a Classic Green Bean Casserole, feel free to try other soups. Cream of chicken or cream of celery can also be used for a slightly different flavor profile. It’s a fun way to change things up.
For an extra savory kick, a teaspoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can be stirred into the soup. It brings a nice umami flavor that complements the mushrooms.
Conclusion
There you have it. A simple, straightforward, and delicious recipe for a holiday favorite. This dish is all about comfort, tradition, and bringing people together over good food.
This truly is the Best Green Bean Casserole Thanksgiving meal needs. It’s a dependable, beloved side dish that never fails to please. The combination of creamy beans and crunchy onions is just timeless.
We hope this recipe becomes a staple in your home for years to come. Whether you stick to the Original Green Bean Casserole or add your own little twists, it’s sure to be a hit.
Happy cooking, and enjoy sharing this wonderful dish with your friends and family during the holiday season. There is nothing better than a table full of food and love.
FAQ
Can I Use Fresh Green Beans?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh green beans. You will need about 1.5 pounds. You should trim them and blanch them first. To do this, boil them in salted water for about 5 minutes, then plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking. Drain well before using.
Can I Make This Gluten Free?
Making this dish gluten free is quite easy. Simply use a gluten free condensed cream of mushroom soup. You will also need to find gluten free French fried onions. Most grocery stores carry these items in their health food section.
What Can I Use Instead Of Cream Of Mushroom Soup?
If you are not a fan of cream of mushroom, you have options. Cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even cream of cheddar soup can be used as a substitute. You can also make a simple cream sauce from scratch using butter, flour, milk, and seasonings.
How Far In Advance Can I Make This Casserole?
You can assemble the casserole one to two days in advance. Mix everything together except for the final topping of onions. Cover the dish and keep it in the refrigerator. When you are ready to bake, add about 10 minutes to the initial baking time before adding the top layer of onions.
Why Is My Casserole Watery?
A watery casserole is usually caused by excess liquid. Make sure you drain your canned green beans very thoroughly. If you use frozen green beans, they should be thawed and patted dry to remove as much water as possible before you mix them in.
Classic Green Bean Casserole
A classic holiday staple, this creamy and comforting green bean casserole is incredibly easy to make. Featuring tender green beans in a savory sauce with a crunchy fried onion topping, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any family gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 1.5 quart casserole dish, combine the drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the French fried onions. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling around the edges.
- Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining French fried onions evenly over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the onion topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven, season with salt and pepper to taste, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, mix in about a half cup of shredded cheddar cheese with the soup mixture.
Feel free to add sautéed fresh mushrooms or onions for extra savory depth.
This casserole can be assembled (without the final onion topping) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated. Just add a few extra minutes to the initial bake time.
Nutrition
Calories
Sugar
Fat
Carbs
