The Best Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Get ready to master a true holiday classic! This green bean casserole recipe is a timeless side dish, beloved for its creamy texture and savory crunch. Many might not know that the green bean casserole, a staple at holiday meals, has a specific origin. According to Wikipedia, the creation of this iconic dish is credited to Dorcas Reilly at the Campbell Soup Company in 1955. It brings a comforting, nostalgic appeal to any meal, whether you are hosting a festive dinner or simply craving a taste of tradition. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy home cooks and beginners alike.

Why You’ll Love This Green Bean Casserole

This delightful dish is a staple for good reason. Here’s why this particular recipe will become your go-to:

• Quick & Easy: You can prep this creamy casserole in just 10 minutes, with only 40 minutes of bake time.
• Crowd-P_pleasing: Everyone adores the familiar, savory flavors of this traditional side.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it with different soups, toppings, or extra ingredients to suit your taste.
• Versatile: It’s ideal for festive holiday meals, yet simple enough for a comforting weeknight addition.
• Beginner-Friendly: Clear, step-by-step instructions ensure perfect results every time.

Ingredients for Classic Green Bean Casserole

Gather these simple ingredients to create your ultimate green bean casserole:

• 4 cups frozen cut green beans (see notes for canned or fresh beans)
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon seasoned salt (more to taste)
• 1½ cups crispy fried onions (divided)

Notes & Substitutions

• Green Beans: While frozen beans are convenient, you can use 2 (14.5 ounce) cans of drained cut green beans or 1½ pounds of fresh green beans, trimmed and blanched.
• Soup: Don’t love mushroom? Try condensed cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
• Milk: Any milk works here! Use whole milk for richness, or a non-dairy option like almond or oat milk for a lighter touch.
• Crispy Topping: Beyond fried onions, consider crushed butter crackers, Panko breadcrumbs, or even a mix of toasted nuts for crunch.
• Optional Additions: Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, a pinch of garlic powder, or a dash of onion powder for extra depth.

Equipment You’ll Need

You likely have everything necessary for this delicious side dish already in your kitchen.

• 2-quart baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan (for green beans)
• Spatula or mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make Green Bean Casserole (Step-by-Step)

Follow these easy steps for a perfect, creamy, and crunchy green bean casserole. This guide makes sure your classic side dish turns out amazing.

Step 1: Prep Oven & Green Beans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the frozen green beans and boil them until they are tender-crisp, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Immediately drain the green beans thoroughly, shaking off any excess water. Watery beans can lead to a soupy casserole later on.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and seasoned salt. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. The soy sauce adds a fantastic umami depth that elevates the overall flavor of your green bean casserole. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 3: Assemble Casserole

Add the thoroughly drained green beans to the soup mixture in the large bowl. Gently fold the green beans into the creamy sauce until they are evenly coated. Next, carefully fold in 1 cup of the crispy fried onions. This adds a lovely onion flavor throughout the casserole. Transfer the entire mixture into your prepared 2-quart baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Bake Initial Round

Place the uncovered baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly around the edges, and gently simmering in the center. The flavors will meld together beautifully during this initial bake, creating that comforting taste you expect from a classic green bean casserole.

Step 5: Add Topping & Finish Baking

Carefully remove the hot casserole from the oven. Give it a gentle stir to ensure everything is evenly heated. Evenly scatter the remaining ½ cup of crispy fried onions over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the crispy onions are golden brown and the casserole is heated through. Serve immediately and enjoy your perfectly baked green bean casserole!

Pro Tips for the Best Green Bean Casserole

Achieving a perfect green bean casserole is easy with these simple tips.

• Cook Beans Properly: Don’t overcook your green beans initially; they should be tender-crisp. They will continue to soften in the oven.
• Season Well: Taste your soup mixture before baking. Add a little extra salt or pepper if desired. The soy sauce is a secret ingredient for deep flavor.
• Avoid Burnt Onions: Add the crispy fried onions for the last 10 minutes of baking. This ensures they get golden and crunchy without burning.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole completely (without the top layer of onions) and refrigerate it. Add the onions just before the final bake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Watery Green Beans: Always drain your green beans extremely well after boiling. Excess water will thin out the sauce.
• Omitting Soy Sauce: Don’t skip the soy sauce! It adds a crucial umami depth that enhances the overall flavor profile significantly.
• Burnt Topping: Waiting until the last few minutes to add the final crispy onions prevents them from getting too dark or burnt.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Too Soupy? If your casserole seems too thin, you might have had too much liquid from the beans. Next time, drain them even more thoroughly. A longer bake time (uncovered) can also help it thicken.
• Onions Not Crispy Enough? If your top layer of onions isn’t as crispy as you like, bake them for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. A quick blast under the broiler for 30 seconds can also work, but watch carefully to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions, Storage, and Variations

This comforting green bean casserole is a perfect companion to many meals.

Serve this classic dish alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a juicy roasted chicken for a complete holiday feast. It also pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, tangy cranberry sauce, and a fresh garden salad.

Storage & Make Ahead Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftover green bean casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the entire casserole (excluding the final crispy onion topping) up to 1-2 days in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Add the onions just before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the bake time if baking from cold.
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked or unbaked casserole for up to 2-3 months. If unbaked, thaw completely in the refrigerator before baking. If baked, let it thaw, then reheat in the oven until bubbly. Add fresh crispy onions for the last 10 minutes of reheating.

Exciting Variations to Try

• Cheesy Delight: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyere cheese with the green beans.
• Savory Bacon: Cook and crumble 4-6 slices of bacon. Stir half into the casserole mixture and sprinkle the rest on top with the onions.
• Mushroom Lover’s: Sauté fresh sliced mushrooms (about 1 cup) with a bit of butter before adding them to the mixture for extra earthy flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free crispy fried onions (or a gluten-free breadcrumb topping).
• Dairy-Free: Opt for a dairy-free condensed cream of mushroom soup and use a non-dairy milk alternative.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of smoked paprika, or a sprinkle of dried thyme for more complex flavors.

Green Bean Casserole Nutrition Information

Beyond their delicious taste, green beans offer valuable nutrients. Learn more about the numerous health benefits of green beans.

Please note that this nutrition information is an estimate based on the ingredients listed and may vary depending on specific brands and preparation methods. This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.

Green Bean Casserole FAQ

• Can I use fresh or canned green beans? Yes, you can! Use 1½ pounds of trimmed, blanched fresh green beans or 2 (14.5 ounce) cans of well-drained cut green beans as a substitute for frozen.
• How do I make this casserole ahead of time? Assemble the casserole completely, but hold off on adding the final crispy onions. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to two days. Add the onions just before baking.
• Can I freeze green bean casserole? Absolutely. You can freeze the baked or unbaked casserole for up to 2-3 months. If freezing baked, reheat from thawed and add fresh onions for the last 10 minutes.
• What if I don’t like cream of mushroom soup? No problem! Feel free to substitute with condensed cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a different, but equally delicious, creamy base for your green bean casserole.
• Why is my casserole too watery? This usually happens if your green beans weren’t drained thoroughly enough. Ensure all excess water is removed after boiling to keep the sauce perfectly creamy.

Conclusion

This classic green bean casserole recipe truly is the best way to enjoy a comforting, familiar side dish. With its simple ingredients, quick prep, and delightful blend of creamy green beans and crispy onions, it’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering. We’ve made it easy for you, even if you are a beginner in the kitchen. So go ahead, whip up this iconic dish, and create some delicious memories. Enjoy every savory, crunchy bite!

The Best Classic Green Bean Casserole

A timeless holiday side dish, this creamy green bean casserole combines tender green beans, savory mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions. Perfect for festive meals or cozy comfort dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 190

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups frozen cut green beans
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (divided)

Equipment

• 2-quart baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Spatula or mixing spoon
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Boil frozen green beans in salted water for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain thoroughly.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and seasoned salt.
3. Fold in the drained green beans and 1 cup of crispy fried onions. Stir to coat evenly.
4. Transfer mixture to a 2-quart baking dish. Spread evenly and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until hot and bubbly.
5. Remove from oven. Stir gently, then top with remaining 1/2 cup of crispy fried onions. Return to oven and bake for 10 more minutes until golden and crispy.

Notes

Use frozen, canned, or blanched fresh green beans. Don't skip the soy sauce—it adds umami depth. Add cheese or bacon for variations. Drain green beans thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole.

Taya Bennett

Taya Bennett is the founder of YumEasyMeals, a platform dedicated to easy, delicious, and quick-to-prepare recipes for busy families. Passionate about everyday cooking, she simplifies meals with practical, accessible, and always delicious ideas.
Discover her creations at: yumeasymeals.com