Imagine a cozy family gathering, the aroma of creamy, buttery goodness wafting through the air as you anticipate that first forkful of homemade green bean casserole. perfect side for Thanksgiving dinner This classic dish is more than just a side; it’s the heartwarming essence of holidays, evoking memories of laughter and joy with every bite. sweet dessert for holiday feasts. For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving peas side dish recipe.
Picture your favorite relatives gathered around the table, eyes twinkling with excitement as they dig into this comforting, savory delight. The crunchy topping contrasts perfectly with tender green beans and a luscious sauce that brings everything together in a symphony of flavors. a comforting chicken casserole It’s not just food; it’s an experience that fills your soul.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The homemade green bean casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any skill level in the kitchen
- Its rich flavor profile combines creamy textures and savory crunch for an unforgettable taste
- Visually appealing, this dish adds a pop of color to any holiday spread or dinner table
- Versatile enough to enjoy during festive occasions or weeknight dinners, it’s a true crowd-pleaser
Sharing this casserole brings back fond memories of my Aunt Edna’s Thanksgiving dinners where we would all fight over the last spoonful.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Fresh Green Beans: Choose vibrant green beans—snap off the ends for freshness and texture.
-
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Use a high-quality brand for optimal flavor; homemade soup works wonders too.
-
Milk: Whole milk adds richness; feel free to substitute with low-fat if you prefer.
-
French Fried Onions: These crispy delights are essential for that satisfying crunch on top; go for the classic brand!
-
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; these staples enhance the overall flavor beautifully.
-
Garlic Powder: A pinch elevates the dish with aromatic depth and character.
-
Cheddar Cheese (optional): For those who love extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle some shredded cheddar on top before baking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare green beans: Rinse fresh green beans under cold water, then trim off both ends. Steam them until they’re tender but still vibrant—about five minutes should do.
Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and steamed green beans until well-coated.
Add toppings: Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle French fried onions generously over the top for that tasty crunch. tangy addition to your meal.
Bake away: Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top—your kitchen will smell divine!
Serve & enjoy: Remove from oven and let it sit for about five minutes before serving. This lets all those incredible flavors meld together beautifully.
With these simple steps, you’ll have an irresistible homemade green bean casserole that will surely impress!
You Must Know
- This homemade green bean casserole elevates your holiday meal with a creamy texture and crispy topping
- The combination of savory flavors and crunchy onions brings everyone back for seconds
- Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead, so you can enjoy the festivities stress-free
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the ultimate homemade green bean casserole, cook the green beans first while preparing the creamy sauce. Once combined, transfer everything to a baking dish and top with crispy onions before baking until golden brown. For more inspiration, check out this creamy mashed potatoes recipe recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap fresh green beans for frozen or canned ones if you’re short on time. You can also experiment with different toppings like crushed crackers or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover homemade green bean casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through to maintain its delicious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh green beans for the best flavor; they add a delightful crispness that frozen lacks
- Don’t overcook them before baking; they should be tender yet slightly crunchy for ideal texture
- Mix in some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth that enhances the overall dish
Cooking this dish always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would fight over the last scoop. One Thanksgiving, my cousin claimed he’d never tried it before, promptly devoured half the pan, and declared it his new favorite—talk about a win!
FAQ
Can I make homemade green bean casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance; just bake it right before serving.
What type of green beans should I use?
Fresh green beans are best, but frozen or canned varieties will work too.
Can I use different toppings for my casserole?
Absolutely! Try adding crushed crackers or even cheese for unique flavors and textures.
Homemade Green Bean Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Indulge in the classic comfort of homemade green bean casserole, a creamy and crunchy dish perfect for family gatherings. Fresh green beans are enveloped in a rich cream of mushroom sauce, topped with crispy fried onions for an irresistible crunch. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to evoke warm memories and delight your guests during holidays or any cozy dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup French fried onions
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Rinse and trim fresh green beans, then steam until tender (about 5 minutes).
- In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth. Stir in steamed green beans until coated.
- Transfer mixture to the baking dish and top with French fried onions.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 casserole (about 180g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Leave a Comment