Green Bean Casserole recipe
Green bean casserole is a beloved holiday classic, but this version brings a flavorful twist with a hint of Worcestershire sauce for added depth. Perfectly creamy with a touch of garlic and topped with crispy fried onions, this casserole captures the comforting flavors that make it a staple on Thanksgiving and Christmas tables. Simple to make and crowd-pleasing, it’s an ideal side dish for any festive gathering or weeknight dinner in need of a comforting touch.
Whether you’re a fan of the traditional version or seeking something a bit more flavorful, this green bean casserole offers a delightful balance of creamy and crunchy. The combination of savory cream of mushroom soup, tender green beans, and a golden onion topping is irresistible. Each bite is warm, satisfying, and full of nostalgic flavors, but the subtle addition of Worcestershire sauce adds a unique depth that complements the dish perfectly.
In under 40 minutes, this recipe comes together with minimal prep and simple ingredients. It’s sure to be a go-to recipe whenever you’re craving something rich, creamy, and easy to make.
Essential Ingredients for Green Bean Casserole
- Green Beans – Two cans of cut green beans keep it easy, while providing tender texture and vibrant color.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup – The heart of the creamy base, bringing in a deep, savory mushroom flavor.
- Whole Milk – Adds a touch of creaminess and helps blend all the flavors together smoothly.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Just a dash enhances the savory notes, giving the casserole a richer taste.
- Garlic Powder – Adds a subtle hint of garlic to boost flavor without overpowering.
- Black Pepper and Salt – Simple seasonings to balance and enhance the dish’s flavors.
- Crispy Fried Onions – Adds that iconic crunch on top and a slight sweetness that complements the creamy base.
Simple Steps to Make This Green Bean Casserole
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly coat a 1.5 to 2-quart baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring until smooth.
- Gently fold in the green beans and half of the crispy fried onions, ensuring they are evenly mixed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out for even cooking. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling in the center.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining crispy onions on top, returning the dish to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the onions are golden and crunchy.
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Recipe Tips for the Perfect Green Bean Casserole
- Use Fresh or Frozen Beans: For a fresher taste, replace canned beans with about 4 cups of fresh or frozen green beans. Parboil them briefly to tenderize before adding them to the casserole.
- Boost Mushroom Flavor: If you’re a mushroom lover, add some sliced sautéed mushrooms to the mix for extra depth.
- Go Light on the Salt: Since the soup and fried onions can be salty, start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
- Adjust Creaminess: For a thicker casserole, reduce the milk by a couple of tablespoons, or for a richer texture, swap with half-and-half.
Recipe Variations
Try adding a few extra touches to personalize this classic. For a cheesy twist, mix in a cup of shredded cheddar before baking. Bacon lovers can sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the top for a smoky flavor. Or, for a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few red pepper flakes.
Storing Leftovers
To store any leftover green bean casserole, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave, or place the entire casserole in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until heated through. This dish also reheats beautifully, making it a convenient option for make-ahead holiday sides. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked casserole for up to two months, thawing it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Add the crispy onions during the final baking step for maximum crunch.
This green bean casserole is an easy, flavorful side that adds a warm, home-cooked touch to any holiday feast or dinner table.
Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Zutaten
- 2 14.5 oz cans of cut green beans, thoroughly drained
- 10.75 oz can of cream of mushroom soup
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 6 oz crispy fried onions divided
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Anleitungen
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 1.5 to 2-quart baking dish with nonstick spray and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, blend the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Fold in the green beans and half of the crispy fried onions, stirring until evenly incorporated.
- Pour the green bean mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the center of the casserole is bubbling.
- Carefully remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining crispy onions on top, and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden and crisp.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Using Fresh Green Beans: Trim and cut 1.5 pounds (approximately 4 cups) of fresh green beans into bite-sized pieces. Simmer for 7-8 minutes until tender, then drain, rinse with cold water, and pat dry.
- Using Frozen Green Beans: Simmer for about 5 minutes until fork-tender, then drain, rinse with cold water, and pat dry.
- Slow Cooker Option: Cook on low for 2-3 hours. Add crispy onions just before serving.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. For freezing, store for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before baking, adding 5-10 minutes to the cook time if needed. Wait to add crispy onions until the final baking step.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven.