Thanksgiving Recipes! Classic Green Bean Casserole Homemade

Few dishes scream “comfort food” like the Classic Green Bean Casserole. It’s a staple of holiday tables and potluck gatherings, loved for its creamy texture, savory flavor, and crispy topping. This dish is not only easy to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Let’s explore how to make the perfect green bean casserole, along with tips to customize it to suit your taste.

This Recipe Is a Favorite

• Timeless appeal: It’s a classic that never goes out of style.
• Simple ingredients: Most of what you need might already be in your pantry.
• Quick to prepare: With minimal prep, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Green Beans

• Use fresh, frozen, or canned green beans, depending on your preference.
  • Fresh beans offer a crisp texture.
  • Frozen green beans are a convenient and great alternative.
  • Canned green beans work well for a softer, classic feel.

Cream of Mushroom Soup

• The backbone of this dish, cream of mushroom soup provides the rich, creamy base. For a twist, you can substitute with cream of chicken soup or even make your own from scratch.

Milk

• Helps to thin out the soup, creating the perfect consistency for the casserole.

Crispy Fried Onions

• The crispy topping is what makes this dish irresistible. Use store-bought fried onions or try making your own for extra flavor.

Seasonings

• A simple mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder is all you need to enhance the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Green Beans

• If using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes to keep their vibrant color and crisp texture.
• For frozen beans, let them thaw and drain any excess moisture.
• Canned beans can be drained and rinsed before use.

2. Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and seasonings. Stir until smooth and well-blended.

3. Assemble the Casserole

• Add the green beans to the soup mixture and toss until evenly coated.
• Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly.

4. Add the Topping

Sprinkle a generous layer of crispy fried onions over the top. This step is key for that signature crunch!

5. Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly with a golden-brown topping.

Tips for the Best Green Bean Casserole

• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just add the fried onions before baking.
• Enhance the flavor: Add grated cheese (like cheddar or Parmesan) for an extra layer of richness.
• Experiment with add-ins: Mushrooms, bacon bits, or sautéed onions can add unique textures and flavors.

Variations to Try

• Healthy Option: Use low-fat soup and baked onions to cut back on calories.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream of mushroom soup and milk with plant-based alternatives.
• Gourmet Twist: Make the mushroom soup from scratch with fresh mushrooms, garlic, and cream for an elevated flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Green bean casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Roast turkey or ham for holiday feasts.
• A side of mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes.
• Cranberry sauce for a sweet and tangy contrast.

The Classic Green Bean Casserole has earned its place as a beloved dish for good reason. It’s comforting, versatile, and easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving or as a weeknight side dish, this recipe is bound to impress.

So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the creamy, crispy goodness of this timeless casserole!

This Similar Recipe Can Help You

Source: Foods101withDeronda

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