The Best Green Bean Casserole Recipe — A Family Classic with a Cozy Twist
There’s something about the smell of a freshly baked green bean casserole wafting through the kitchen that instantly takes me back to childhood. Every year at Thanksgiving, my grandmother would make her famous green bean casserole, and let me tell you—it was the first dish to disappear from the table! Creamy, crunchy, and comforting, it was love at first bite.
Now that I have my own kitchen (and a few tweaks of my own), I’ve created an easy green bean casserole recipe that blends tradition with just the right amount of homemade magic. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday meal or just want a comforting side dish, this homemade green bean casserole will bring smiles all around.
🥣 Ingredients for the Best Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this cozy dish to life:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or homemade if you prefer)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (optional but delish!)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
🍽️ Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Green Beans
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch them for about 4–5 minutes, until they’re bright green and slightly tender.
Tip: Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking and keeps them vibrant and crisp!
2. Sauté the Veggies
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 3–4 minutes). Stir in the garlic and mushrooms. Cook for another 5–6 minutes, until the mushrooms are golden and tender.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip this step—it adds a homemade flavor you just can’t get from canned ingredients!
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
Add the cream of mushroom soup and milk to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you’re using cheddar cheese, stir it in now for extra richness.
4. Combine Everything
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked green beans with the creamy mushroom sauce. Mix gently until the beans are well coated.
5. Assemble and Bake
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly. Sprinkle the top with 1 cup of crispy fried onions (reserve the rest for later).
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and heated through.
6. Final Crunchy Touch
Remove the casserole from the oven, top with the remaining fried onions, and return to the oven for 5 more minutes.
Tip: Watch closely so those crispy onions don’t burn!
💚 Why This Is the Best Green Bean Casserole Recipe
This isn’t just an easy green bean casserole recipe—it’s a crowd-pleaser with layers of flavor. From the fresh green beans to the rich, savory sauce and golden fried onion topping, it’s a comfort food classic you’ll come back to again and again. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy Sunday dinner, this homemade green bean casserole recipe brings warmth to the table.
❓ Green Bean Casserole FAQ
Q: Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh green beans add a lovely crunch, canned ones work just fine. Just make sure to drain them well before adding.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
Q: Can I make green bean casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole (without the fried onions) up to a day in advance. When ready to bake, top with onions and bake as directed.
Q: What are some fun variations?
- Add cooked bacon bits or sautéed sausage for a heartier dish.
- Swap cheddar for gruyère for a gourmet twist.
- Use a homemade mushroom sauce instead of canned soup for a fully from-scratch version.
Q: What are common mistakes to avoid?
- Overcooking the green beans (they’ll turn mushy!)
- Using too much liquid, which can make the casserole runny
- Skipping the final 5-minute onion crisping step—it adds that irresistible crunch!
