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This green bean casserole is a reliable classic that comes together quickly using everyday pantry staples. It balances creamy mushroom flavor with a crispy fried onion topping for satisfying textures. Perfect as a cozy side dish any time of year, it works well for weeknight dinners or holiday meals alike.
I mixed this up last-minute one evening and it instantly became a favorite side everyone asks for at family dinners.
Ingredients
- Canned condensed cream of mushroom soup: Provides that nostalgic creamy mushroom base and saves time
- Milk: Adds smoothness and richness whole milk makes the casserole silkier
- Soy sauce: Deepens umami without adding saltiness—choose a quality brand for best flavor
- Green beans: Can be fresh, frozen, or canned but fresh or well-thawed frozen give the best texture—look for bright green pods
- Crispy fried onions: Create the signature crunch on top French’s is the classic brand, fresh and not stale is key
- Ground black pepper: For simple seasoning that enhances overall taste
Instructions
- Build The Base:
- Start by prepping your green beans. If fresh, trim and cut into even pieces then blanch in boiling salted water briefly for crisp-tender texture. Frozen beans need full thawing and draining. Canned beans should be well drained to avoid sogginess.
- Mix The Sauce:
- In a large bowl whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and soy sauce until smooth and well combined. The soy sauce brings subtle umami that lifts the flavor without overwhelming it.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the green beans, two thirds of the crispy fried onions, and black pepper to the sauce mixture. Fold gently so the onions stay mostly intact which helps keep some crunch after baking.
- Bake The Casserole:
- Spread the mixture evenly in a 9 by 9 inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for about 25 minutes or until bubbling around the edges.
- Add The Topping:
- Stir gently to redistribute the sauce then evenly sprinkle the reserved third of fried onions on top. Return to oven for five more minutes until onions turn golden brown and crispy.
- Cool Slightly And Serve:
- Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking to set up. This also allows the flavors to meld fully before digging in.
I love the way the crispy onions contrast with the creamy beans and mushroom flavor—it always reminds me of holidays when the whole family gathers at the table sharing stories and laughter over this dish.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain creaminess and crisp topping. If the topping softens, you can add fresh fried onions before serving again.
Ingredient Swaps
Use fresh mushrooms sautéed and folded into the sauce to add extra texture if you prefer less processed ingredients. Low sodium soy sauce or tamari works well to control salt level. For dairy free try oat or almond milk and vegan cream of mushroom soup.
Serving Ideas
Serve this casserole alongside roasted poultry or holiday ham for a classic feast. It also pairs nicely with vegetarian mains like lentil loaf or mushroom wellington for meatless dinners. Add a simple crisp salad to balance the creamy richness.
This casserole is a comforting classic that delivers satisfying textures and flavors in every bite.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What kind of green beans work best for this dish?
Fresh green beans offer the best texture, but canned and frozen (thawed) beans work well after proper draining and blanching.
- → Why add soy sauce to the mushroom sauce?
Soy sauce brings a subtle umami depth that enhances the mushroom flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
- → How can I keep the fried onions crispy?
Divide the onions into two portions: mix some in and reserve the rest to add as a topping just before the final bake to maintain crispiness.
- → What temperature and time are ideal for baking?
Bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes, then add topping and bake another 5 minutes for a bubbly, golden finish.
- → Can this be prepared in an air fryer?
Yes, baking times reduce to about 10 minutes initially and 2 minutes with topping at 350°F, giving a similar texture and flavor.