Green Bean Casserole Recipe – A Holiday Classic

The Perfect Green Bean Casserole Recipe for Your Holiday Table

Nothing says holiday comfort food quite like a piping-hot dish of Green Bean Casserole! Creamy, crispy, and packed with flavor, this iconic recipe has become a Thanksgiving and Christmas staple across the United States. Whether you’re a long-time fan or making it for the first time, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from its nostalgic history to tips for perfecting it in your kitchen.

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A Brief History of Green Bean Casserole

Did you know that Green Bean Casserole was first created in 1955? Dorcas Reilly, a home economist at Campbell Soup Company, invented this dish as a simple, cost-effective way to bring families together during the holidays. The original recipe featured canned green beans, Cream of Mushroom soup, and French-fried onions—convenient ingredients that most home cooks already had in their pantry. 

Since then, this casserole has evolved into a much-loved tradition. You’ll find countless variations, each adding a unique twist to the classic flavors we all adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish is all about accessibility and flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up the ultimate Green Bean Casserole:

Core Ingredients: 

• Green Beans (1 lb fresh or two 14.5 oz cans): Fresh green beans bring a touch of crispness, but canned or frozen work just as well. 
• Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can): The creamy, savory foundation of the dish.
• Milk (½ cup): Helps to create that luscious sauce. 
• Soy Sauce (1 tsp): Adds a subtle umami punch. 
• Ground Black Pepper (to taste): A simple yet essential seasoning. 
• French-Fried Onions (1 cup): That iconic crispy topping everyone fights over! 

Optional Substitutions: 

• Replace Cream of Mushroom Soup with homemade béchamel sauce if you’re feeling fancy.
• Dairy-free? Use almond milk and dairy-free cream alternatives.
• Gluten-free? Opt for gluten-free crispy onions and mushroom soup.

Step-By-Step Instructions for Green Bean Casserole

Put on your apron—it’s time to cook! These foolproof step-by-step instructions will guarantee success:

Step 1: Prep the Green Beans 

• If you’re using fresh green beans, trim the ends and blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes. Drain and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to preserve that gorgeous green color.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 
• Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the Cream of Mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.

Step 3: Combine and Layer 

• Add your green beans to the sauce mixture, ensuring each bean is coated evenly. 
• Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Smooth out the top with a spatula.

Step 4: Add the Crispy Onions 

• Sprinkle half of your French-fried onions on top of the casserole. Reserve the rest for later.

Step 5: Bake and Finish 

• Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. 
• Remove the dish from the oven, add the remaining crispy onions, and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown and bubbling. 
• Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, nostalgic flavors!

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Tips and Tricks for the Best Green Bean Casserole

• Use fresh green beans for a crunchier texture. If you’re using canned, drain them thoroughly to avoid excess liquid. 
• Don’t skip the soy sauce. This secret ingredient enhances the depth of flavor. 
• Add texture with bacon or mushrooms. Sautéed mushrooms or crispy bacon bits are excellent additions to the mix.

These little tweaks can make a big difference in the final taste and presentation of your dish.

Read More: Top 10 New Breakfast Casserole Recipes | Healthy & Easy

Variations to Try

Want to mix things up? Here are some mouthwatering variations to inspire you:

•  Cheesy Casserole: Add shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the mix for a gooey, cheesy twist. 
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat. 
• Vegan Version: Replace the soup with a dairy-free cream alternative and use vegan crispy onions. 

Experimenting with different flavors is half the fun—it’s your kitchen, your rules!

Serving Suggestions

Green Bean Casserole truly shines as a side dish. Pair it with any of these complementary dishes for a truly memorable feast:

•  Roast Turkey or Ham: A classic main to anchor your holiday spread. 
• Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: No holiday table is complete without this duo. 
• Sweet Potato Casserole: Another comforting side that balances savory with sweet. 

And don’t forget a big pitcher of your favorite holiday drink—like spiced cider or mulled wine!

Bring a New Tradition to Your Table

Green Bean Casserole is much more than a side dish—it’s a shared memory, a symbol of togetherness, and a reminder of the power of a simple, hearty recipe. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even a casual dinner party, this dish is bound to become a beloved part of your celebrations.

What are you waiting for? Grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! For more recipe inspiration and tips, subscribe to our weekly newsletter or share your Green Bean Casserole creations with us by tagging #MyHolidayRecipes on pinterest.

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