Green bean casserole is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to any table. This dish combines fresh green beans with creamy mushroom soup, sautéed mushrooms, and crispy fried onions for a delightful experience. Perfect for family gatherings or holiday dinners, it is a dish that everyone loves.
Why Make This Recipe
Making this Ultimate Green Bean Casserole recipe means creating a comforting, creamy, and crunchy side dish that enhances any main course. It’s simple to prepare and uses fresh ingredients that elevate the flavors. Plus, it’s an excellent way to enjoy green beans while pleasing your guests.
How to Make Ultimate Green Bean Casserole
Creating this delicious casserole is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps to prepare an unforgettable dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs of fresh green beans (trimmed)
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 16 oz of crimini mushrooms (sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 cans of Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of half and half
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme sprigs
- 2 cups / 1 can of French’s Crispy Fried Onions
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Bring a large stock pot of water to a rolling boil. Cook the green beans for 3-4 minutes, then transfer them into a large bowl filled with ice water to stop cooking. Once cooled, drain and set the green beans aside.
- In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-10 minutes until they are golden brown. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, half and half, soy sauce, and thyme sprigs. Stir well.
- Mix the soup mixture with the mushrooms, half of the crispy fried onions, and green beans in a separate bowl.
- Transfer this mixture to a large casserole dish. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and top with the remaining crispy fried onions. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown.
How to Serve Ultimate Green Bean Casserole
To serve your Ultimate Green Bean Casserole, scoop out generous portions into bowls or on plates. This dish pairs well with roasted meats, turkey, or even as a standalone vegetarian delight.
How to Store Ultimate Green Bean Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Ultimate Green Bean Casserole
- For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon pieces or cheddar cheese.
- Prepping the green beans ahead of time can save you minutes on cooking day.
- For a crunchier topping, you can add more crispy fried onions before serving.
Variation
You can easily make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free crispy onions.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
A: Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
A: Yes! You can substitute or add vegetables like corn or broccoli for variety and extra nutrients.
Ultimate Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
Vegetables and Fats
- 2 lbs fresh green beans (trimmed)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 16 oz crimini mushrooms (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme sprigs
Soups and Liquids
- 2 cans Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup half and half
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Toppings
- 2 cups French’s Crispy Fried Onions 1 cup to mix in, 1 cup for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Bring a large stock pot of water to a rolling boil. Cook the green beans for 3-4 minutes, then transfer them into a large bowl filled with ice water to stop cooking. Once cooled, drain and set the green beans aside.
Cooking
- In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-10 minutes until they are golden brown. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, half and half, soy sauce, and thyme sprigs. Stir well.
- Mix the soup mixture with the mushrooms, half of the crispy fried onions, and green beans in a separate bowl.
- Transfer this mixture to a large casserole dish. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and top with the remaining crispy fried onions. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown.
