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Introduction

Green bean casserole is a beloved comfort dish, often gracing Thanksgiving tables across America. Made with tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions, this dish is the perfect combination of texture and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or looking for an easy side dish, this ultimate green bean casserole recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Classic Comfort Food: Creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: Requires simple ingredients and minimal effort.
• Perfect for Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser at any holiday meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepped in advance and baked before serving.

Origin of the Dish

The green bean casserole was first created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly, a home economist at Campbell’s Soup Company. Designed as an easy and delicious side dish using common pantry staples, it quickly became a Thanksgiving tradition in American households.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed and cut
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 1 tsp soy sauce (optional for extra flavor)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions, divided
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional but recommended)

Method of Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans

1. If using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water.
2. If using frozen green beans, thaw and drain them before use.

Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce (if using), garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Stir in the green beans and half of the crispy fried onions.
3. If using, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese for a richer flavor.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer the green bean mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. Sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions over the casserole.
2. Bake for another 5-10 minutes until the onions are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve warm as a side dish to your holiday feast.

Cooking Tips

• Use Fresh Green Beans: For the best texture and flavor, blanch fresh green beans instead of using canned ones.
• Enhance the Flavor: Add sautéed mushrooms, bacon bits, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
• Make It Cheesier: Stir in shredded cheese for a gooier, richer casserole.
• Prep Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Blanching Step: If using fresh green beans, blanching helps keep them tender.
• Overcooking the Casserole: Baking too long can dry it out.
• Adding Fried Onions Too Early: This can cause them to burn; add them in the last few minutes of baking.
• Using Canned Green Beans: While convenient, they can become too soft and mushy.

Serving Tips

• Serve with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce for a complete Thanksgiving meal.
• Pair with a side of dinner rolls for a comforting combination.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of color and freshness.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

• Green Beans: High in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and antioxidants.
• Mushrooms: Provide essential nutrients, including B vitamins and selenium.
• Milk: A good source of calcium and vitamin D.
• Onions: Contain antioxidants and support immune health.

Interesting Facts

• Green bean casserole was originally called the “Green Bean Bake.”
• More than 20 million American households serve green bean casserole during Thanksgiving.
• The recipe was created as part of a campaign to promote Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup.
• A record-breaking green bean casserole was made in 2017, weighing over 1,000 pounds!

Summarized Recipe

Ingredients: Green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, crispy fried onions, cheddar cheese (optional).

Steps:

1. Blanch green beans if using fresh.
2. Mix soup, milk, seasonings, and half of the fried onions.
3. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 25 minutes at 350°F.
4. Top with remaining fried onions and bake for another 5-10 minutes.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!

Green bean casserole is a timeless classic that brings warmth and tradition to any meal. Whether for Thanksgiving or a simple family dinner, this easy and delicious dish will always be a favorite!

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