Uncover a Holiday Favorite
The Green Bean Casserole Recipe is a holiday staple, cherished for its comforting and creamy texture. One thing I love is its ability to bring both nostalgia and fresh appeal to the table. The combination of tender green beans, savory mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions captures the essence of festive family feasts.
Recipe Highlights for Classic Green Bean Casserole
The holiday green bean casserole shines with its creamy goodness and irresistible crunch. Here’s why it stands out:
- Cooking Time: Just 40 minutes from prep to plate.
- Servings: Yields 6 hearty servings, perfect for family dinners.
- Why You’ll Love This Dish: Comforting and creamy, topped with crispy fried onions – a timeless favorite for any festive table.
This traditional bean casserole recipe blends convenience and flavor, making it a delightful addition to your holiday menu!
Top Ingredients
This classic green bean casserole dish brings comfort to any holiday celebration with its essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy casserole with green beans:
- Green Beans: Use fresh for a vibrant flavor or canned for convenience.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Provides a rich and savory base.
- Fried Onions: Adds a satisfying crunch on top.
Optional Additions for a personalized touch:
- Sliced Mushrooms: For extra earthiness.
- White Cheddar Cheese: To enhance the creaminess and depth.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to make this traditional bean casserole recipe a standout at your next gathering.
Instructions for Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your casserole dish.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the green beans and cream of mushroom soup.
- Transfer to dish: Place the mixture in the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Top with onions: Sprinkle the fried onions generously over the green bean mixture.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes until bubbly.
- Finish with crispy onions: Add extra fried onions and bake for an additional 5 minutes for extra crunch.
- Serve and enjoy: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving alongside your favorite holiday meats.
Tips and Variations for a Creamy Casserole with Green Beans
Make this classic green bean casserole recipe your own with these flavorful tips and variations:
- Use fresh green beans: Opt for fresh instead of canned for a more vibrant flavor.
- Pinch of nutmeg: Add warmth with a subtle sprinkle of nutmeg.
- Add bacon bits: For extra crunch, mix in crispy bacon pieces.
- Try dairy-free options: Use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup for lactose-free alternatives, or browse vegan cheese ingredients to complement the casserole.
- Include sliced mushrooms: Enhance with additional mushrooms for a hearty touch.
- Incorporate cheese: Melt white cheddar on top for a rich, cheesy layer.
Experiment with these suggestions to personalize your green bean casserole and delight at your next gathering!
Serving Suggestions for a Traditional Bean Casserole Recipe
Elevate your holiday green bean casserole with these pairing ideas:
- Perfect Main Dishes:
- Serve alongside roasted turkey for a classic feast.
- Pair with a glazed ham for a sweet and savory combination.
- Complete the Meal with Sides:
- Add creamy mashed potatoes for extra comfort.
- Include a serving of tangy cranberry sauce for a burst of flavor. Consider exploring this comparison of cranberry-orange relish vs. cranberry sauce to elevate your holiday cooking.
- Drink Ideas:
- Enjoy with a glass of Chardonnay to balance the creamy notes.
- Opt for sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a refreshing touch.
Frequently Asked Questions About Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Can I prepare the green bean casserole dish in advance?
Absolutely, assemble the traditional bean casserole recipe a day early and refrigerate. Add fried onions just before baking to keep them crispy.
Is there an alternative to fried onions for my creamy casserole with green beans?
Yes, for a different texture, you can use crushed crackers or breadcrumbs instead of fried onions in your classic green bean recipe.
How do I store leftovers of this holiday green bean casserole?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze my traditional bean casserole recipe?
Yes, freeze the classic green bean casserole dish in a sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat this creamy casserole with green beans?
Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to preserve its texture and flavor.
Bringing It All Together
In conclusion, the holiday green bean casserole is a delightful blend of tradition and taste, perfect for any festive gathering. Ready to impress your guests? Here’s how you can enhance your cooking experience:
- Experiment with Variations: Add seasonal ingredients to personalize your dish.
- Share Your Twist: Post photos of your creation on social media and tag us for a feature.
- Complete the Meal: Pair with suggested sides like mashed potatoes and a glass of Chardonnay for a full culinary experience. Consider pairing your casserole with a vibrant side like this cranberry-orange relish for a refreshing complement.
Let this classic green bean recipe be the star of your holiday table. Happy cooking, and share your culinary achievements with us!
Sweet Green Bean Casserole
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Large saucepan
- Baking dish
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb green beans trimmed
- 2 tbsp butter unsalted
- 1 cup onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup 10.5 oz
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 tsp soy sauce low sodium
- 1 cup crispy fried onions divided
- 1/2 cup pecans chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil, then blanch the green beans for 4-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Stir until combined.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic and sauté until caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the sautéed onion mixture to the soup mixture and stir to combine. Fold in the blanched green beans, half of the crispy fried onions, and the chopped pecans.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining crispy fried onions.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.