Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe – Holiday Favorite
Table of Contents
The green bean casserole is a big name in American food, especially during holidays. It’s a favorite at Thanksgiving and Christmas, bringing families together. Its mix of green beans, mushroom sauce, and fried onions is loved by many.
Looking for a dish that everyone will enjoy? The green bean casserole is perfect. Its recipe has stayed the same since the 1950s. This keeps its taste and look loved by many at holiday meals.
Key Takeaways
- The green bean casserole is a classic American holiday dish, popular at Thanksgiving and Christmas.
- It features a simple combination of tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crunchy fried onions.
- The recipe has remained largely unchanged since its creation in the 1950s, making it a beloved tradition.
- The dish is a crowd-pleasing side that brings families together during the holiday season.
- Preparing a delicious green bean casserole is a straightforward process that can be easily mastered by home cooks.
Introduction to the Beloved Holiday Side Dish
The Campbell’s green bean casserole is a favorite holiday dish in America. It was made in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly, a Campbell Soup Company home economist. Her recipe quickly became a Thanksgiving and Christmas favorite, making it a true comfort food classic.
History of Green Bean Casserole
Dorcas Reilly created the Campbell’s green bean casserole to show off Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup. It was a huge success, becoming a favorite for quick, tasty side dishes.
Why It’s a Holiday Essential
The Campbell’s green bean casserole brings back memories and comfort. It’s made with green beans, mushroom sauce, and crispy onions. This mix is both comforting and indulgent, making it a holiday table staple.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Green Bean Casserole
The classic green bean casserole is a favorite holiday side dish. It combines fresh green beans, which add a crisp texture. The dish also includes cream of mushroom soup, making it rich and creamy.
A bit of milk and a splash of soy sauce balance the creaminess. A generous amount of black pepper adds flavor. The French’s fried onions add a crunchy, savory finish.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh green beans | 4 cups, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 (10.5 oz) can |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| French’s fried onions | 2.8 oz (1 1/3 cups) |
With these ingredients, you can make a classic green bean casserole. It’s sure to impress your guests and become a holiday tradition.
Kitchen Equipment and Tools Needed
To make the classic green bean casserole, you need some key kitchen tools. The right baking dish and utensils are crucial. They help get the perfect texture and flavor.
Recommended Baking Dishes
The right baking dish is essential for a classic green bean casserole. Look for a casserole dish that holds 2 to 3 quarts. This size fits the green beans, creamy sauce, and crispy topping well. Choose a dish made of sturdy, oven-safe material like glass, ceramic, or metal for even heating and easy cleanup.
Essential Utensils
- A large mixing bowl for tossing the green beans, sauce, and other ingredients
- A colander for draining the cooked green beans
- A spatula or spoon for stirring and serving the casserole
- A sharp knife for trimming the green beans, if needed
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurately portioning the ingredients
| Item | Recommended Size or Type |
|---|---|
| Casserole Dish | 2 to 3 quarts, oven-safe material (glass, ceramic, or metal) |
| Mixing Bowl | Large, for tossing the casserole ingredients |
| Colander | For draining cooked green beans |
| Spatula or Spoon | For stirring and serving the casserole |
| Knife | Sharp, for trimming green beans if needed |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | For accurately portioning ingredients |
With the right baking dish and essential utensils, you’re ready to make a delicious green bean casserole. It’s perfect for your holiday gathering.
Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Make your holiday feast special with our easy green bean casserole. It’s a favorite at Thanksgiving and Christmas. Follow our steps to make a casserole that everyone will love.
To start, get the key ingredients:
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) of green beans, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 1/3 cups of French fried onions
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Mix the green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and black pepper in a big bowl. Stir until it’s smooth.
Put the green bean mix in a 1 1/2-quart baking dish. Spread the French fried onions on top. Bake for 25 minutes until the onions are golden and the casserole bubbles.
Watch the casserole closely during the last minutes. Take it out when the onions are crispy. Let it cool a bit before serving.
Enjoy this easy green bean casserole at your holiday meal. It’s a mix of tender green beans, creamy sauce, and crunchy onions that everyone will love.
Preparation and Cooking Tips
Making the perfect green bean casserole needs careful planning. This includes picking the right ingredients and storing leftovers well. Here are some tips to help your holiday dish be a hit every time.
Selecting Fresh vs Frozen Green Beans
Choosing between blanching green beans fresh or frozen is up to you. Fresh beans give a crunchy texture and bright color. But, they need more prep work. Frozen beans are easy to use and still taste great.
Whether you pick fresh or frozen, make sure to clean and trim them well before cooking.
Making Ahead Instructions
Make-ahead casserole recipes are a lifesaver. They let you prepare the dish early, saving time and stress. Just put everything together, cover it, and chill for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes first.
Storage Guidelines
Properly storing leftovers is crucial for enjoying your casserole later. Cool it down completely, then put it in a sealed container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
To reheat, thaw it in the fridge if it’s frozen. Then, bake at 350°F until it’s hot and ready to eat.
| Preparation Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Blanch Fresh Green Beans | Quickly boiling the fresh green beans helps retain their crisp texture and vibrant color. |
| Make-Ahead Casserole | Assembling the casserole in advance saves time on the day of serving and allows the flavors to meld. |
| Proper Leftovers Storage | Storing the casserole in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer ensures it stays fresh for days or weeks. |
Customization Options and Variations
The classic green bean casserole is a holiday favorite. Its beauty comes from its versatility. You can add unique twists or meet dietary needs in many ways.
Adding bacon is a popular choice. For a bacon green bean casserole, sauté crispy bacon. Then, mix it into the casserole before baking. This adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture that pairs well with green beans.
For a vegan green bean casserole, swap the cream of mushroom soup. Use a creamy cashew-based sauce or vegan mushroom gravy. This keeps the rich and comforting flavor.
Gluten-free guests can enjoy it too. Just use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for thickening. Replace fried onions with crushed gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.
There are endless customization options. Try adding mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted garlic for more flavor. The green bean casserole can be made to please everyone’s taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect green bean casserole is all about balance. Avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference. One big issue is soggy green beans, often caused by overcooking or using low-quality ingredients. Another problem is a runny casserole filling, which can happen if the ingredients are not balanced right or if it’s baked for too long.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your green beans are soggy, try these tips:
- Use fresh, crisp green beans instead of canned or frozen.
- Blanch the beans briefly before assembling the casserole to ensure they stay firm and vibrant.
- Avoid overcooking the casserole, as this can lead to mushy, waterlogged beans.
For arunny casserole, consider these tips:
- Reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe, such as the cream of mushroom soup or milk.
- Thicken the filling with a bit of cornstarch or flour before baking.
- Bake the casserole at a higher temperature to help evaporate excess moisture.
Achieving the Ideal Texture
The secret to a great green bean casserole is finding the right balance. You want crisp-tender beans and a creamy, luscious filling. Stick to the recipe, adjust cooking times as needed, and watch the casserole’s consistency while it bakes. With practice and these tips, you’ll make a dish that everyone will love.
Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations
The classic green bean casserole is a holiday favorite. But, it’s key to look at its nutrition and dietary impact. We’ll examine the nutritional facts and healthier options for different diets.
A single serving of the traditional green bean casserole has about 150 calories. Most of these calories come from the creamy mushroom soup and fried onions. It also has a lot of sodium, which is a concern for those watching their salt.
For a low-sodium diet, use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup. Choose fresh or frozen green beans over canned ones. Making your own crispy onion topping can also lower sodium.
For healthier alternatives, try a plant-based sauce with Greek yogurt or low-fat milk. Use baked or air-fried onions to reduce fat and calories.
| Nutrient | Traditional Green Bean Casserole | Healthier Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 150 calories per serving | Approximately 100 calories per serving |
| Fat | High in saturated and trans fats | Lower in saturated and trans fats |
| Sodium | High in sodium (up to 800 mg per serving) | Reduced sodium (400-500 mg per serving) |
By choosing wisely and trying healthier options, you can enjoy green bean casserole while considering your diet. A few tweaks can make this holiday dish more nutritious.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
The classic green bean casserole is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with many holiday favorites. It complements the flavors of roasted turkey, glazed ham, or baked chicken. This makes it a must-have on any Thanksgiving menu or Christmas dinner table.
Complementary Holiday Dishes
For a complete Thanksgiving feast, serve the green bean casserole with mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and dinner rolls. This mix creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. It will delight your guests. The casserole also adds a welcome touch to a Christmas dinner spread, alongside roasted root vegetables, candied sweet potatoes, and a decadent holiday ham.
Garnishing Ideas
- Top the casserole with a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or panko breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, thyme, or chives to add a pop of color and herbaceous aroma.
- Drizzle a touch of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- For a festive touch, arrange the casserole in a baking dish and top it with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or a dusting of paprika.
By pairing the green bean casserole with complementary holiday dishes and adding creative garnishes, you can elevate this classic side dish. It becomes a standout feature on your Thanksgiving menu or Christmas dinner table.
| Thanksgiving Menu | Christmas Dinner Sides | Casserole Toppings |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted Turkey | Glazed Ham | Crispy Fried Onions |
| Mashed Potatoes | Roasted Root Vegetables | Panko Breadcrumbs |
| Stuffing | Candied Sweet Potatoes | Fresh Parsley |
| Cranberry Sauce | Dinner Rolls | Balsamic Glaze |
| Dinner Rolls | Green Bean Casserole | Grated Parmesan |
Reviews and Success Stories
The classic green bean casserole recipe is a favorite for many families in the United States. People love its tasty flavor and how easy it is to make. Sarah Wilson, a mom of three, says, “This recipe is a must-have at our Thanksgiving. It’s a hit with everyone, and it’s so easy to make.”
Many families have made this casserole a big part of their holiday traditions. Emily Garcia, a long-time fan, says, “Making this casserole is a tradition for us. It’s not Thanksgiving without it. Everyone looks forward to enjoying it together.”
Home cooks who have made this recipe have great things to say. Jessica Nguyen says, “This is my favorite holiday recipe now. It’s loved by all, and the flavors are amazing.” The green bean casserole is a beloved dish that brings families together during the holidays.
FAQ
What is the history of the classic green bean casserole?
Dorcas Reilly created the green bean casserole in 1955 at Campbell’s Soup Company. It quickly became a favorite for holidays. It’s loved for its simple ingredients and warm flavors.
Why is green bean casserole a holiday essential?
Green bean casserole is a holiday favorite. It’s a classic comfort food. The mix of green beans, mushroom sauce, and fried onions makes it a hit.
What are the essential ingredients for the perfect green bean casserole?
You need fresh or frozen green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and French’s fried onions for the classic recipe.
What kitchen equipment and tools are needed to make green bean casserole?
You’ll need a casserole dish, a mixing bowl, and a colander. Also, a spoon, whisk, and can opener are necessary.
How do you make green bean casserole from scratch?
Start by blanching the green beans. Then mix the soup, milk, soy sauce, and pepper. Combine everything and bake until hot and the topping is crispy.
What are some tips for preparing and cooking green bean casserole?
Use fresh or frozen green beans and blanch them for the best texture. You can also make it ahead of time. Don’t forget to store leftovers properly.
How can you customize or vary the classic green bean casserole recipe?
You can add bacon or mushrooms to make it your own. There are also vegan and gluten-free versions for different diets.
What are common mistakes to avoid when making green bean casserole?
Watch out for a soggy casserole. Tips for the right texture and consistency are important.
What are the nutritional facts and health considerations for green bean casserole?
Green bean casserole has calories, fat, and sodium. But, you can make it healthier with low-sodium ingredients or different cooking methods.
What holiday dishes pair well with green bean casserole?
It goes well with many dishes, like roasted turkey and mashed potatoes. You can also garnish it to make it look better.
