Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe: Easy, Creamy, and Perfect for Holidays

Mira Smith

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Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe: Easy, Creamy, and Perfect for Holidays

The green bean casserole recipe is a quintessential holiday dish that has graced dinner tables for generations. Its creamy texture, savory flavors, and crispy topping make it a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering. While the classic version often relies on canned cream of mushroom soup, modern recipes have elevated this dish by using fresh ingredients and homemade sauces. In this article, we’ll explore the history of green bean casserole, share tips for making the best version, and provide multiple step-by-step guides to creating a creamy, delicious casserole in just 30 minutes.

The History of Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole recipe was invented in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly, a home economist working in the Campbell’s Soup Company test kitchen. Her goal was to create a simple, affordable dish using pantry staples. The original recipe called for just six ingredients: green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and crispy fried onions. It quickly became a holiday favorite due to its ease of preparation and comforting flavors.

Over the years, the dish has evolved. Many home cooks now prefer to make it from scratch, using fresh green beans, homemade mushroom gravy, and high-quality ingredients. This not only enhances the flavor but also allows for greater control over the dish’s texture and nutritional content.

Why Green Bean Casserole is a Holiday Staple

Green bean casserole recipe has earned its place on holiday tables for several reasons:

  1. Comforting Flavors: The combination of creamy sauce, tender green beans, and crispy onions creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
  2. Ease of Preparation: Even the from-scratch versions are relatively simple to make, leaving you more time to focus on other dishes.
  3. Versatility: It pairs well with a variety of main courses, from roasted turkey to glazed ham.
  4. Make-Ahead Friendly: Many recipes can be prepared a day or two in advance, making it a stress-free addition to holiday meals.
Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe: Easy, Creamy, and Perfect for Holidays

How to Make the Best Green Bean Casserole in 30 Minutes

If you’re short on time but still want to serve a delicious green bean casserole, this quick recipe is for you. Using a few shortcuts without sacrificing flavor, you can have this dish ready in just half an hour.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 ounces sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Blanch the Green Beans: Heat a big salted water pot until boiling. Boil green beans for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn bright green and just tender. Move the green beans into ice water right after draining them to lock in the food’s nutrients. Drain again and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: An oversized frying pan receives butter that melts over medium temperature heat. Fry the onions in the skillet until they become soft after three minutes. Mix in garlic and mushrooms while cooking these ingredients until the mushrooms shed moisture and turn brown in 5 minutes. Stir flour into the pan and cook it for 1 to 2 minutes to eliminate flour rawness.
  4. Create the Creamy Base: Mix the chicken broth and heavy cream into the butter slowly as you keep stirring to stop the mixture from developing clumps. Leave the mixture on heat while stirring until it becomes thick enough over 3 to 5 minutes. Mix in Worcestershire sauce plus season with salt and pepper.
  5. Combine and Bake: Toss green beans into the skillet with the sauce before all ingredients cook together. Spread the mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Lay the shredded cheddar cheese first then top with the crispy fried onions. The dish is ready when the casserole has melted inside while crust turns beautiful golden brown during baking.

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green beans and mushrooms offer the finest flavor and texture.
  • Don’t Skip the Blanching: Blanching ensures the green beans stay crisp-tender during baking.
  • Customize the Topping: Add extra crunch with toasted breadcrumbs or sliced almonds.

Tips for Success

  • Use Vegan Alternatives: Substitute the butter with olive oil and the heavy cream with coconut cream for a vegan version.
  • Add Nuts for Crunch: Toasted almonds or pecans make a great addition to the topping.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best things about green bean casserole recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the dish up to two days in advance, storing it in the refrigerator without the fried onions. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature, add the onions, and bake as directed.

Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain the crispy topping.

Variations to Try

While the classic version is always a hit, there are plenty of ways to customize green bean casserole:

  1. Cheesy Twist: Add a layer of mozzarella or Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
  2. Bacon Lover’s Delight: Stir in crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
  3. Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and skip the Worcestershire sauce (or use a vegan alternative).
  4. Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free fried onions.

Conclusion

Green bean casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a symbol of holiday warmth and togetherness. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with modern twists, this dish is sure to delight your family and friends. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and crispy topping, it’s no wonder green bean casserole recipe remains a beloved tradition. Try the 30-minute version for your next holiday meal, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow!

FAQs

Q: Who invented green bean casserole and when?

A: Green bean casserole was invented by Dorcas Reilly in 1955 while working as a home economist in the Campbell’s Soup Company test kitchen. She created it as a simple, affordable dish using common pantry ingredients.

Q: What are the original ingredients in green bean casserole?

A: The original recipe contained just six ingredients: green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and crispy fried onions.

Q: Can I make green bean casserole ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to two days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator without the fried onions. When ready to serve, bring it to room temperature, add the onions, and bake as directed.

Q: How long do green bean casserole leftovers last?

A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to maintain the crispy topping.

Q: Can I make a vegan version of green bean casserole?

A: Yes, you can make it vegan by substituting butter with olive oil and heavy cream with coconut cream. Also ensure to use vegetable broth and skip or use a vegan alternative to Worcestershire sauce.

Q: Why should I blanch the green beans?

A: Blanching ensures the green beans stay crisp-tender during baking and helps maintain their bright green color. It’s an important step for achieving the best texture in your casserole.

Q: What are some ways to customize green bean casserole?

A: You can customize it by:

  • Adding different cheeses like mozzarella or Parmesan
  • Including crispy bacon bits
  • Using toasted almonds or pecans for extra crunch
  • Making it gluten-free with alternative flour and gluten-free fried onions

Q: How long does it take to make green bean casserole from scratch?

A: The quick version takes about 30 minutes to prepare and bake. This includes blanching the green beans, making the sauce, and baking until golden brown.

Q: Why has green bean casserole become a holiday staple?

A: Green bean casserole has become a holiday favorite because it:

  • Features comforting flavors and textures
  • Is relatively easy to prepare
  • Pairs well with various main dishes
  • Can be made ahead of time
  • Uses simple, accessible ingredients

Q: What’s the best way to ensure a creamy sauce without lumps?

A: To prevent lumps, slowly add the broth and heavy cream while continuously stirring after cooking the flour with the vegetables. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which usually takes 3-5 minutes.