Simple Green Bean Casserole Recipe: A Thanksgiving Classic Made Easy
This simple green bean casserole recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving or any time you crave a comforting, creamy, and delicious side dish. It cuts down on prep time without sacrificing flavor, making it ideal for busy cooks. This recipe focuses on fresh green beans, but frozen works just as well. Let's dive into the simple steps to create this beloved dish!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can French-cut green beans, drained (or 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and steamed) – Using canned green beans speeds up the process, but fresh ones offer a brighter flavor. If using fresh, steam until tender-crisp.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup – The creamy base of this classic dish.
- ½ cup milk – Adds creaminess and helps thin the soup to the desired consistency.
- ¼ cup French fried onions – The crispy topping that makes this casserole so irresistible. (Reserve about ¼ cup for garnish).
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Enhances the savory flavor profile.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Adjust to your taste. You may want to skip this if using a salty brand of soup.
- Optional: 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce – Adds a depth of umami flavor for more complex taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole is heated through and the topping is perfectly crispy.
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Combine the ingredients: In a medium bowl, gently combine the drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything until well incorporated.
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Pour into a baking dish: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish or a similar sized casserole dish.
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Top with French fried onions: Sprinkle the remaining French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
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Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. The topping should be golden brown and crispy.
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Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for the Perfect Green Bean Casserole:
- Don't overcook the green beans: Overcooked green beans will be mushy. If using fresh, aim for tender-crisp.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Taste the casserole before baking and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
- Get creative with toppings: While French fried onions are traditional, feel free to experiment with other crispy toppings like crumbled bacon or toasted nuts.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the casserole.
Q: Can I make this casserole without cream of mushroom soup?
A: While the cream of mushroom soup is a key ingredient in the classic recipe, you can experiment with different creamy soups or create your own creamy sauce using milk, butter, and flour.
Q: How can I make this casserole healthier?
A: You can reduce the amount of cream of mushroom soup, use low-sodium versions of the ingredients, and add more vegetables for a healthier, more nutritious option.
This simple green bean casserole recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the deliciousness and ease of this classic Thanksgiving side dish! Remember to share your culinary creations and tag us! Happy cooking!
