Green Bean Casserole is a dish that has stood the test of time. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a weeknight family dinner, this creamy, crunchy, and flavorful recipe is sure to please everyone around the table. It combines tender green beans, rich mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions to create the perfect comforting side dish. In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Classic Green Bean Casserole. Keep reading to discover step-by-step instructions, tips, substitutions, and serving ideas that will ensure your dish turns out perfect every time!

What is Green Bean Casserole?
Green Bean Casserole is a baked side dish made primarily from green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. This dish, invented in the 1950s by Dorcas Reilly at Campbell’s Soup Company, quickly became a staple at American holiday meals, particularly Thanksgiving. Its appeal comes from the simple, pantry-friendly ingredients and the comforting combination of creamy, savory flavors with a crunchy topping. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish a beloved classic.
Ingredients List for Classic Green Bean Casserole
Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to prepare your Classic Green Bean Casserole:
- Green Beans (4 cups fresh or two 14.5 oz cans)
Fresh, canned, or frozen green beans can be used depending on your preference. Fresh green beans will give a crisper texture, while canned green beans are more convenient and offer a softer texture. - Cream of Mushroom Soup (10.5 oz can)
The soup acts as the creamy base of the dish, bringing a rich and savory flavor to complement the green beans. - Milk (½ cup)
Milk helps thin out the cream of mushroom soup, ensuring the casserole has the right consistency without being too thick. - Soy Sauce (1 teaspoon)
Adds a depth of umami flavor to the casserole and balances the creaminess of the mushroom soup. - Ground Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon)
For seasoning and enhancing the overall flavor. - Crispy Fried Onions (1 ⅓ cups)
These fried onions add an irresistible crunchy texture to the casserole, both mixed into the dish and sprinkled on top.
Additional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor
For those looking to elevate their Classic Green Bean Casserole, here are some optional ingredients to consider:
- Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon)
Adds a hint of garlic flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy mushroom sauce. - Cheddar Cheese (½ cup, shredded)
For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheddar into the casserole for added richness. - Bacon (4 slices, cooked and crumbled)
Crispy bacon pieces bring a smoky, savory element to the dish, making it even more satisfying. - Sliced Mushrooms (½ cup)
Adding fresh mushrooms enhances the mushroom flavor and adds extra texture. - Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon)
If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes will give the dish a slight kick.
Substitutions and Variations
While the Classic Green Bean Casserole recipe is beloved as-is, there are several ways to adapt it to suit different tastes, dietary needs, or ingredient availability.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, use a plant-based cream of mushroom soup and non-dairy milk. You can also find dairy-free fried onions at many stores. Nutritional yeast can be added for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Simply swap regular cream of mushroom soup for a gluten-free version and use gluten-free crispy fried onions.
- Healthier Version: For a lighter casserole, use low-fat milk, reduced-sodium cream of mushroom soup, and bake your own onions instead of using store-bought fried onions. You can also steam fresh green beans to retain more nutrients.
- Keto/Low-Carb: Omit the crispy fried onions or replace them with a crushed pork rind topping. Use heavy cream instead of milk for a lower-carb casserole base.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the oven to be ready as soon as the casserole is assembled.
- Prepare the Green Beans: If using fresh green beans, trim the ends and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Boil the beans in salted water for about 5 minutes until slightly tender, then drain and set aside. If using canned green beans, simply drain them.
- Mix the Casserole Base: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, garlic powder (if using), and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Add the Green Beans and Onions: Gently fold in the prepared green beans and ⅔ cup of crispy fried onions. This ensures that the onions are mixed throughout the casserole, adding crunch in every bite.
- Transfer to a Casserole Dish: Pour the green bean mixture into a 1.5-quart casserole dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbling and hot throughout.
- Add More Crispy Onions: After 25 minutes of baking, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions on top. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Cook Classic Green Bean Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
This easy-to-follow guide breaks down the Classic Green Bean Casserole recipe for both beginners and experienced home cooks. As long as you follow these steps, your casserole will turn out perfectly every time.
- Step 1: Choose Your Beans: Fresh, canned, or frozen green beans all work well. Fresh beans will need to be parboiled, while canned beans should be drained. Frozen beans can be added directly, though you may want to thaw them slightly.
- Step 2: Mix the Sauce: The cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper create the savory base. Don’t forget optional add-ins like garlic powder or shredded cheese.
- Step 3: Bake and Top: The crispy fried onions are what set this casserole apart. Add them during the last few minutes of baking to keep them crunchy and delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Pre-Cooking Fresh Green Beans: If you’re using fresh green beans, make sure to parboil them before adding them to the casserole. This ensures they cook through and don’t end up too crunchy.
- Skipping the Fried Onion Topping: The crispy onions are essential to the texture and flavor of this dish. Skipping this step can leave your casserole lacking crunch.
- Over-Baking: Be sure to check the casserole after 25 minutes. Over-baking can lead to a dry or mushy casserole, especially if you’re using fresh green beans.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation can make a big difference when it comes to serving Classic Green Bean Casserole. A well-presented dish is more enticing and can elevate even a simple recipe like this one.
How to Serve Classic Green Bean Casserole
- Family Style: Serve the casserole in the same dish it was baked in for a homey, family-style presentation.
- Individual Portions: For more formal gatherings, you can spoon individual servings of the casserole into ramekins or small bowls.
Presentation Ideas for Classic Green Bean Casserole
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top to add color and flavor.
- Use a Decorative Casserole Dish: A beautiful, oven-safe dish can enhance the presentation. Opt for a dish in a bold color or rustic design to make the casserole visually appealing.
Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe Tips
- Double the Recipe: If you’re cooking for a large group, it’s easy to double the recipe. Just make sure to use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time slightly.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day ahead, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. Just wait to add the fried onions until just before baking to keep them crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes! Fresh green beans will give a crisper texture. Just be sure to parboil them before baking.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready. Just add the crispy fried onions during the final few minutes of baking.
Can I add cheese to the casserole?
Yes, adding shredded cheddar cheese to the casserole base or on top can give it a richer, creamier flavor.
Conclusion
The Classic Green Bean Casserole is a timeless side dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can make this delicious and comforting dish. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or add your own twists, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Try it out, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a staple on your dinner table!
PrintClassic Green Bean Casserole Recipe
This classic green bean casserole recipe is made with fresh green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. It's the perfect side dish for holidays or family gatherings, delivering rich flavor in every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or canned green beans
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ⅓ cups crispy fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine green beans, mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a 1 ½-quart baking dish.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle fried onions on top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- For added flavor, use fresh sautéed mushrooms.
- You can substitute frozen green beans if desired.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste with extra soy sauce or pepper.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ⅙ of casserole
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
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