The warm scent of baked green beans mingling with creamy goodness and crunchy toppings wafts through the air. This is the magic of Southern Green Bean Casserole—a dish that promises comfort and joy in every bite.
Imagine gathering around the table with family, laughter echoing as everyone reaches for a serving of this delicious casserole. It’s that nostalgic aroma that draws everyone in and makes your heart feel full.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This rich and creamy casserole is easy to whip up even on busy days
- The delightful blend of flavors creates a dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your dinner table
- The beautiful layers of textures make it not just tasty but also visually appealing
- Perfect as a side for holidays or casual get-togethers with friends!
Sharing this dish during Thanksgiving brought smiles and praise from my family—definitely a hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Green Beans: Choose vibrant green beans for the best flavor; snap off the ends before cooking.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Use a high-quality soup for creaminess; homemade options can elevate this dish.
- Milk: Whole milk adds richness; you can substitute with low-fat if desired.
- French Fried Onions: These crispy onions add crunch; don’t skip this crucial ingredient!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.
- Garlic Powder: A dash enhances flavor without overpowering the dish; use fresh garlic if preferred.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it lightly with nonstick spray.
Prepare the Green Beans: Wash fresh green beans thoroughly under cool water. Trim off both ends by snapping them off or using a knife.
Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well-blended.
Add the Beans: Fold in those gorgeous green beans into your creamy mixture until they’re fully coated.
Bake It Off!: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes until bubbly.
Add the Crunch: Remove from oven and sprinkle French fried onions generously over the top. Return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.
Serve hot and watch as your guests dive into this irresistible Southern Green Bean Casserole! Enjoy every bite while soaking up compliments on your culinary skills!
You Must Know
- Southern Green Bean Casserole is a classic comfort dish that warms the heart and soul
- The rich, creamy texture combined with crunchy toppings creates a delightful contrast that invites seconds
- This dish is perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or simply a cozy weeknight dinner
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Cook the green beans until tender, prepare the creamy sauce, then mix everything before baking. This sequence ensures even cooking and a deliciously melded flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap fresh green beans for frozen ones or add crispy bacon bits for extra crunch. Personalizing the dish will make it uniquely yours and impress your guests!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain that wonderful texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh green beans for better flavor and texture; they add a crisp bite that’s irresistible
- Consider adding sharp cheddar cheese to elevate the flavor profile of your casserole
- Be careful not to overcook the green beans; they should be tender but still vibrant green!
I remember making this Southern Green Bean Casserole for my first Thanksgiving dinner. My family exclaimed how it reminded them of home-cooked meals from their childhoods, which melted my heart.
FAQ
Can I use canned green beans instead?
Absolutely! Just drain and rinse them thoroughly before using.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Substitute cream with vegetable stock and skip any meat toppings for a vegetarian delight.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole a day ahead, then bake just before serving for optimal freshness.
Southern Green Bean Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Southern Green Bean Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish, combining tender green beans with a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with crispy fried onions for a delightful flavor that captivates every gathering.
Ingredients
- Fresh green beans
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Whole milk
- French fried onions
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Wash and trim the ends of the fresh green beans.
- In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Fold in the green beans until evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake uncovered for 25 minutes until bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle French fried onions on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg