Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe


The cream of mushroom green bean casserole is a classic dish that has been a staple in many households for decades. This hearty and comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, and potlucks. The combination of tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and a crispy topping makes it a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing side dish for a holiday feast, this casserole is sure to hit the spot.

The History of Green Bean Casserole

The green bean casserole has a rich history that dates back to the 1950s. It was created by Dorcas Reilly, a home economist at the Campbell Soup Company. Reilly was tasked with creating a simple and delicious recipe using Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup and green beans. The result was a casserole that quickly became a beloved dish in American households.

Over the years, the green bean casserole has evolved, with many variations and adaptations. However, the classic recipe remains a favorite, especially during the holiday season. Its simplicity and comforting flavors make it a timeless dish that continues to be enjoyed by generations.

The Invention of a Classic

Dorcas Reilly’s creation was a game-changer in the world of home cooking. The green bean casserole was designed to be easy to prepare, using ingredients that were readily available in most kitchens. The combination of canned soup, green beans, and a crispy onion topping made it a convenient and delicious option for busy families.

Evolution Over the Years

As the years passed, home cooks began to put their own spin on the classic recipe. Some added cheese for extra creaminess, while others incorporated fresh mushrooms for a more homemade touch. Despite these variations, the core elements of the dish—green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and a crispy topping—remained the same.

Ingredients


To make this delicious casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups cooked green beans
• 1 1/3 cups French fried onions

Understanding the Ingredients

• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the base of the casserole, providing a creamy and flavorful sauce. You can use canned soup or make your own from scratch.
• Milk: Adds creaminess and helps thin out the soup for a smoother consistency.
• Soy Sauce: Enhances the umami flavor, adding depth to the casserole.
• Black Pepper: Provides a subtle kick and balances the flavors.
• Green Beans: The star of the dish, green beans add a crisp texture and fresh flavor.
• French Fried Onions: These crispy onions add a crunchy topping that complements the creamy base.

Choosing the Right Green Beans

When selecting green beans for your casserole, you have a few options:

• Fresh Green Beans: For the best flavor, use fresh green beans. You can blanch them before adding to the casserole.
• Frozen Green Beans: A convenient option, frozen green beans are already prepped and ready to use. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the casserole.
• Canned Green Beans: While not as flavorful as fresh or frozen, canned green beans can be used in a pinch. Drain them well before using.

Preparation Steps


Follow these simple steps to prepare your cream of mushroom green bean casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the Soup: In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Add Green Beans: Stir in the cooked green beans and 2/3 cup of the French fried onions.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
5. Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
6. Add Topping: Stir the casserole and sprinkle the remaining French fried onions on top.
7. Bake Again: Bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden and crispy.

Detailed Cooking Tips

• Use Fresh Green Beans: For the best flavor, use fresh green beans. You can blanch them before adding to the casserole.
• Customize the Topping: Feel free to add other toppings like breadcrumbs or grated cheese for extra flavor.
• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the casserole to prevent the topping from burning.

Blanching Fresh Green Beans

If you’re using fresh green beans, blanching them before adding to the casserole can help preserve their vibrant color and crisp texture. Here’s how to blanch green beans:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they are bright green and slightly tender.
3. Drain the green beans and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
4. Drain the green beans again and pat them dry before adding to the casserole.

Making Your Own Cream of Mushroom Soup

While canned cream of mushroom soup is convenient, making your own from scratch can add a homemade touch to your casserole. Here’s a simple recipe for homemade cream of mushroom soup:

1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their juices and begin to brown.
3. Stir in 1/4 cup of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the flour is lightly browned.
4. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, until the soup has thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Variations


There are many ways to customize this classic recipe:

• Add Cheese: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese for a creamier casserole.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of milk for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.

Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

For a cheesier version, you can add shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture. This will make the casserole even more creamy and indulgent. Simply mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese with the soup mixture before adding the green beans.

Vegetarian Green Bean Casserole

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the milk with vegetable broth. This will add a savory flavor while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly. You can also use vegetarian-friendly French fried onions or make your own crispy onion topping.

Spicy Green Bean Casserole

If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup mixture. This will give the casserole a spicy kick that complements the creamy and savory flavors. You can also add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Adding Fresh Mushrooms

For a more homemade touch, you can add fresh mushrooms to your casserole. Sauté sliced mushrooms with onions and garlic, then mix them into the soup mixture before adding the green beans. This will add a depth of flavor and a hearty texture to the casserole.

Gluten-Free Green Bean Casserole

To make a gluten-free version of the casserole, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free French fried onions. You can also make your own gluten-free cream of mushroom soup using gluten-free flour.

Nutritional Information

This casserole is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Green beans are a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber. The cream of mushroom soup adds a creamy texture and a boost of protein.

Health Benefits of Green Beans

Green beans are low in calories and high in nutrients. They are a good source of:

• Vitamin A: Supports eye health and immune function.
• Vitamin C: Aids in collagen production and boosts the immune system.
• Vitamin K: Important for blood clotting and bone health.
• Fiber: Promotes digestive health and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Nutritional Breakdown

Here is a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 28g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 8g

Healthier Substitutions

To make the casserole healthier, you can use low-fat milk and reduced-sodium cream of mushroom soup. You can also add more vegetables, such as sliced mushrooms or diced bell peppers, for extra nutrients.

Reducing Sodium

If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup and reduce the amount of soy sauce in the recipe. You can also rinse canned green beans to remove excess sodium.

Adding More Vegetables

To boost the nutritional content of the casserole, you can add more vegetables. Sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, and chopped onions can all be added to the soup mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions


Serve this casserole as a side dish with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce for a complete holiday meal. It also pairs well with a simple green salad for a lighter option.

Holiday Meal Ideas

• Thanksgiving Dinner: Pair the green bean casserole with roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce for a classic Thanksgiving meal.
• Christmas Feast: Serve the casserole alongside a roasted ham, sweet potatoes, and a festive salad for a delightful Christmas dinner.
• Potluck Gathering: Bring the casserole to a potluck and watch as it becomes the star of the show. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Lighter Options

• Green Salad: Serve the casserole with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• Grilled Chicken: Pair the casserole with grilled chicken for a protein-packed dinner that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Making It a Main Dish

While the green bean casserole is typically served as a side dish, you can easily turn it into a main dish by adding protein. Mix in cooked chicken, turkey, or even ground beef for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Pairing with Wine

If you’re serving the casserole for a special occasion, consider pairing it with a complementary wine. A crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio, can balance the creamy flavors of the casserole. For a red wine option, try a light-bodied Pinot Noir.

FAQ

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed before serving.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How can I make this casserole healthier?

To make the casserole healthier, you can use low-fat milk and reduced-sodium cream of mushroom soup. You can also add more vegetables, such as sliced mushrooms or diced bell peppers, for extra nutrients.

Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned soup?

Yes, you can make your own cream of mushroom soup using fresh mushrooms. Sauté sliced mushrooms with onions and garlic, then blend with milk and flour to create a creamy base.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of the casserole by using gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free French fried onions. You can also make your own gluten-free cream of mushroom soup using gluten-free flour.

Conclusion

The cream of mushroom green bean casserole is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to be a hit.