This Classic Green Bean Casserole is the ultimate comfort food hero, beloved for generations and forever earning a place of honor on the holiday table. With its velvety base, bursts of earthy mushroom flavor, and crispy fried onion topping, it’s the side dish that disappears first at gatherings and potlucks. Simple to make yet loaded with nostalgia and flavor, Classic Green Bean Casserole brings both warmth and unbeatable taste to any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beautiful thing about this dish is how just a handful of staple ingredients can come together to make something so memorable. Each ingredient plays a key role, adding its own flourish to the taste, texture, or even the color of this Classic Green Bean Casserole.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the creamy backbone of the casserole, adding rich, savory flavor and a silky, indulgent texture.
- Milk: Just a splash loosens up the soup and helps the layers meld together into a smooth, scoopable casserole.
- Soy Sauce: A dash of umami that quietly amplifies all the savory notes and keeps the dish from being bland.
- Black Pepper: A pinch is all it takes to add gentle heat and balance to the creamy sauce.
- Canned Green Beans: The star ingredient—tender, bright, and so easy—canned beans save time and ensure perfect, juicy bites every time.
- French Fried Onions: The classic crunchy finish; sprinkle these on just before serving for unbeatable flavor and that irresistible golden crust.
How to Make Classic Green Bean Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grab your trusty 13×9-inch baking dish—no need to grease, just make sure it’s clean and ready for action. Prepping ahead means the whole process moves smoothly, especially if you’re working alongside other holiday dishes.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Mixture
In your baking dish, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and a dash of black pepper. Stir until everything is well blended and the sauce is silky. The milk cuts the richness just enough, and you’ll notice how the soy sauce adds a wonderful depth here.
Step 3: Add the Green Beans
Drain your canned green beans thoroughly to avoid excess liquid in your casserole. Gently fold them into the soup mixture right in the baking dish. Make sure every green bean is coated, since this ensures every bite gets that dreamy, creamy flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Base
Slide the uncovered dish into the oven and bake for 25 minutes. This stage heats everything through and lets the flavors mingle beautifully. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the unmistakable aroma of Classic Green Bean Casserole.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Onion Topping
Once the timer’s up, take out the casserole and sprinkle a generous layer of crispy French fried onions on top—don’t be shy! Pop it back in the oven for another 5 minutes. This quick finish makes the onions golden brown and extra crispy, the ultimate finishing touch for this dish.
How to Serve Classic Green Bean Casserole
Garnishes
If you want to add a pop of color or a little extra freshness, sprinkle on a handful of chopped fresh parsley or chives right after baking. A light zesting of lemon can also brighten up the creaminess if you love a fresh twist on the classic.
Side Dishes
Classic Green Bean Casserole plays well with just about everything! Serve it alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, mashed potatoes, or even as the main star of a vegetarian spread. Its creamy, savory flavors make it a versatile match with almost any holiday or weeknight dinner plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests, serve mini portions of Classic Green Bean Casserole in individual ramekins for an elegant touch. Alternatively, bake it in a colorful casserole dish to bring a festive vibe to your table, or top each serving with extra onions for that crunchy wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Classic Green Bean Casserole keeps wonderfully in the fridge. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer the casserole to an airtight container. It will stay delicious and safe to eat for up to 4 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches and quick family meals.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the casserole without the fried onions and let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months. Top with fresh onions after baking straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time until hot throughout.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, reheat them in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbling, about 15-20 minutes. For faster reheating, microwave individual portions. If the topping has softened, sprinkle on a few more onions before reheating in the oven for maximum crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh or frozen green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Blanch fresh green beans until just tender, or thaw frozen green beans before using. The texture will be a bit firmer and the color brighter, which many people love in their Classic Green Bean Casserole.
What’s the best brand of fried onions to use?
French’s is the classic pick for that nostalgic flavor and perfect crunch, but any store-bought crispy onions will work well. You can also make your own for an extra-special touch!
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute your favorite dairy-free milk and look for a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup. Check the label on your fried onions to ensure they fit your dietary needs.
How do I keep the onion topping crispy?
For the crispiest results, only add the fried onions during the last few minutes of baking. If you’re making ahead, wait to add them until you’re ready to reheat and serve your Classic Green Bean Casserole.
Can I assemble the casserole the day before?
Definitely. Mix everything together, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Just bake as directed the next day, adding the fried onions during the last 5 minutes in the oven. This makes hosting so much easier!
Final Thoughts
No matter what’s on the menu, Classic Green Bean Casserole brings everyone together—just scoop, serve, and savor the creamy, crunchy perfection. I hope you try it this season (or any time you need a little comfort on your table) and share it with those you love most!
PrintClassic Green Bean Casserole Recipe
A classic and easy-to-make Green Bean Casserole that is a perfect addition to any holiday table. Made with creamy mushroom soup, green beans, and crispy fried onions, this dish is sure to please everyone!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Creamy Base:
- 2 10.5 ounce cans cream of mushroom soup (cream of chicken can be used)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Black pepper to taste
Green Beans:
- 5 14.5 ounce cans green beans, drained
- 2–3 cups French fried onions (e.g., French’s)
Topping:
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Heat the oven to 350F.
- Prepare the base: In a 13×9″ baking dish, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, pepper, and green beans.
- Bake: Bake for 25 minutes.
- Add topping: Sprinkle the fried onions over the top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 115kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 296mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 2mg
