Are you curious about the secret behind the classic Green Bean Casserole recipe? What makes it so irresistibly delicious? Let’s uncover the ingredients that make this beloved holiday side dish a perennial favorite.
This Recipe is made with a simple combination of ingredients that come together to create a tasty and comforting dish. The key components include:
- 2 (15 ounce) cans of cut green beans (drained)
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ¾ cup of milk
- 1 (2.8 ounce) can of French fried onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients are mixed together in a casserole dish, baked in the oven, and topped with crispy fried onions. The result is a creamy and flavorful side dish that perfectly complements any holiday spread.
Key Takeaways:
- This dish is a classic holiday side dish beloved for its delicious flavors.
- The key ingredients include cut green beans, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and French fried onions.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste for added flavor.
How to Make Green Bean Casserole from Scratch
To create a delicious homemade green bean casserole, follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Boil 4 cups of frozen cut green beans until they reach a tender-crisp texture.
- In a casserole dish, combine the boiled green beans with 10.5 ounces of cream of mushroom soup, ½ cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ¼ teaspoon of seasoning salt, and 1 cup of crispy fried onions.
- If you desire an extra cheesy flavor, you can also add some shredded cheese to the mixture.
- Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes.
- After the initial bake, give the casserole a gentle stir and layer the remaining half cup of crispy fried onions on top.
- Put the casserole back in the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the onions turn golden brown and crispy.
This homemade green bean casserole is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and comforting texture. You can serve it as a side dish for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple family dinner.
Variations and Additions to Green Bean Casserole
There are several variations and additions you can make to a traditional green bean casserole. Adding different ingredients can enhance the flavor and texture to create a personalized twist on this classic dish.
1. Shredded Cheddar Cheese
If you want to add extra flavor to your green bean casserole, try incorporating 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. The melted cheese will add a creamy and tangy element that pairs well with the green beans and mushroom sauce.
2. Fried Mushrooms, Onions, Garlic, or Shallots
For an additional layer of depth and earthiness, consider sautéing some fried mushrooms, onions, garlic, or shallots to add to the casserole. These savory ingredients will infuse the dish with aromatic flavors and complement the creamy texture.
3. Crumbled Cooked Bacon
If you are a fan of smoky flavors, crumble some cooked bacon on top of your green bean casserole. The crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch and a rich, savory taste that blends perfectly with the other ingredients.
Tip: Get creative and experiment with different ingredients to find your favorite combination. You can even mix and match these variations to create a unique and personalized green bean casserole.
By incorporating these variations and additions, you can elevate the traditional green bean casserole and customize it to suit your taste preferences. Whether you opt for cheesy, savory, or smoky flavors, these additions will enhance the overall culinary experience and impress your family and friends.
Tips for Making the Best Green Bean Casserole
When it comes to making the best green bean casserole, a few simple tips can elevate this classic dish to new heights. Whether you’re using canned, frozen, or fresh green beans, following these suggestions will help you achieve a delicious and satisfying result.
- If using canned green beans, be sure to drain them well before adding them to the casserole. This prevents excess liquid from watering down the dish and ensures a better texture.
- For frozen green beans, it’s highly recommended to boil them for about 5 minutes before incorporating them into the casserole. This blanching step helps to retain their vibrant color and creates a tender-crisp texture.
- If you prefer fresh green beans, simmer them in salted water for approximately 8 minutes until they are tender but still slightly firm. This cooking method helps maintain their natural crunchiness.
- When microwaving the soup and cheese mixture, ensure it is heated until warm and well-blended. This step enhances the creaminess and flavor of the casserole.
- While baking the casserole, keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking. You want the cheese to be fully melted and the fried onions to just turn golden brown, creating a delightful contrast of textures.
By following these tips, you’ll create a green bean dish that is packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different green bean varieties and seasonings to add your own personal touch to this beloved dish.
Nutritional Information of Green Bean Casserole
When it comes to enjoying green bean casserole, it’s not just about the delicious taste, but also understanding its nutritional value. Let’s take a closer look at this Recipe Nutrition Facts.
A typical serving of green bean casserole contains approximately:
- 168 calories
- 10 grams of fat
- 15 grams of carbs
- 3 grams of protein
These macronutrients make green bean casserole a relatively modest dish. However, it’s important to note that the exact nutritional content may vary depending on the specific ingredients used in your recipe.
In terms of daily values, a serving of green bean casserole provides:
- 13% of the recommended daily value for total fat
- 37% of the recommended daily value for sodium
- 6% of the recommended daily value for total carbohydrates
- 6% of the recommended daily value for protein
While green bean casserole can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, it’s always a good idea to be mindful of portion sizes and consider the overall composition of your meal.
A Classic Holiday Side Dish: Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a classic holiday side dish that is beloved by many. It is typically served alongside a roast turkey and other Thanksgiving or Christmas dishes. The combination of tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions creates a delicious and comforting flavor profile. Green bean casserole has become a staple on holiday tables and is often passed down through generations as a cherished family recipe.
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish that brings both nostalgia and flavor to your holiday feast, the classic green bean casserole is the perfect choice. Made with simple ingredients, this dish is easy to prepare and always delights both young and old alike.
With its vibrant green color and creamy texture, green bean casserole adds a pop of freshness and richness to your holiday spread. The tender green beans provide a satisfying crunch, while the creamy mushroom sauce adds a savory and velvety layer of flavor. Topped with crispy fried onions, the casserole is finished off with a delightful crispy and savory note.
Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or a cozy holiday meal, the classic green bean casserole is a versatile side dish that complements any main course. It’s a timeless recipe that has stood the test of time and continues to bring joy and comfort to countless holiday celebrations.
So, this holiday season, bring the classic green bean casserole to your table and create lasting memories with your loved ones. It’s a dish that encapsulates the spirit of togetherness and indulgence during this special time of year.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips for Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a popular dish for holiday meals, and it’s even better when you can prepare it ahead of time. Whether you want to save on preparation on the day of your holiday meal or simply want to have a delicious side dish ready to go, here are some make-ahead and storage tips for Green Bean Casserole.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook the casserole according to the recipe, but leave off the fried onions.
- Once cooked, allow the casserole to cool.
- Cover the casserole tightly with foil.
- Refrigerate the casserole for up to 48 hours.
When you’re ready to serve, follow these steps:
- Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Top the casserole with the fried onions.
- Reheat the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until the onions are golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
These make-ahead tips allow you to prepare the casserole in advance, saving you time and effort on the day of your holiday meal. The end result will be just as delicious as if you had made it fresh.
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers of Green Bean Casserole, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Here’s how to store and reheat the leftovers:
- Allow the casserole to cool completely.
- Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate the container.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, there are a couple of options for reheating:
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish and reheat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer a single serving of the casserole to a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
Reheating the casserole will bring back its delicious flavors and make it just as enjoyable as when it was fresh.
Conclusion
Green bean casserole is a beloved classic holiday dish that brings comfort and flavor to any gathering. Made with simple ingredients like tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions, it’s a versatile side dish that can be customized to suit individual tastes.
Whether you choose to stick with the traditional recipe or get creative with variations and additions, green bean casserole is sure to be a hit on your holiday table. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delicious and satisfying dish that complements roasted turkey and other seasonal favorites.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the recipe, and enjoy this timeless dish with your family and friends. Green bean casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that will add warmth and nostalgia to your holiday spread. Embrace the tradition or put your own spin on it – either way, you’re in for a delicious treat!
Discover the ultimate comfort in every bite with our Green Bean Casserole Recipe. Dive in now!
FAQ
What is green bean casserole made of?
Green bean casserole uses canned green beans, mushroom soup, milk, and French fried onions, seasoned with salt and pepper.
How do I make green bean casserole from scratch?
For homemade green bean casserole, gather frozen green beans, mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, pepper, seasoning salt, and crispy fried onions.
What are some variations and additions to green bean casserole?
Some optional variations and additions to green bean casserole include shredded cheddar cheese, fried mushrooms, onions, garlic, shallots, and crumbled cooked bacon.
What are some tips for making the best green bean casserole?
Tips for making the best green bean casserole include properly draining canned green beans, boiling frozen green beans before adding them to the casserole, simmering fresh green beans, and ensuring the cheese is melted and the fried onions are just turning brown.
What is the nutritional information of green bean casserole?
The nutritional information for green bean casserole can vary, but a typical serving contains approximately 168 calories, 10 grams of fat, 15 grams of carbs, and 3 grams of protein.
How long can I store leftover green bean casserole?
Leftover green bean casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before enjoying.