Why Make This Recipe
The Ultimate Green Bean Casserole is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. It’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just a cozy dinner at home. This recipe combines fresh green beans, savory mushrooms, and creamy soup for a satisfying side dish. Topped with crispy fried onions, it adds a delightful crunch that pairs well with many main courses. Making this casserole from scratch ensures a fresh taste that beats store-bought options any day.
How to Make Ultimate Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs of fresh green beans (trimmed)
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 16 Oz of crimini mushrooms (sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 cans of Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of half and half
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme sprigs
- 2 cups / 1 can of French’s Crispy Fried Onions
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Bring a large stock pot of water to a rolling boil. Cook the green beans for 3-4 minutes, then transfer them into a large bowl filled with ice water. This will stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and set the beans aside.
- In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-10 minutes or until they are golden brown. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, half and half, soy sauce, and thyme sprigs.
- Combine the soup mixture with the sautéed mushrooms, half of the crunchy fried onions, and the green beans. Transfer everything to a large casserole dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining onions on top, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden brown.
How to Serve Ultimate Green Bean Casserole
Serve the Ultimate Green Bean Casserole hot from the oven as a delicious side dish. It pairs well with roasted meats, turkey, or hearty vegetarian dishes. You can garnish it with some extra thyme or freshly ground pepper to enhance its flavor.
How to Store Ultimate Green Bean Casserole
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Tips to Make Ultimate Green Bean Casserole
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the mushrooms.
- You can use frozen green beans if fresh ones are not available, but fresh will give a better texture.
- Feel free to mix in your favorite cheese for a cheesy twist!
Variations
You can customize this casserole by adding other vegetables like corn or peas. If you want a lighter version, substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade sauce made from fresh mushrooms and broth.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and store it in the refrigerator, ready to bake when you need it.
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! You can use button mushrooms or even shiitake for a different flavor.
What can I serve with green bean casserole?
Green bean casserole goes well with roast chicken, turkey, and ham. It’s also great as a side for a vegetarian meal.
Ultimate Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh green beans (trimmed)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 16 oz crimini mushrooms (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cans Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup half and half
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme sprigs
- 2 cups French's Crispy Fried Onions 1 can
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Bring a large stock pot of water to a rolling boil. Cook the green beans for 3-4 minutes, then transfer them into a large bowl filled with ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and set the beans aside.
- In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-10 minutes or until they are golden brown. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, half and half, soy sauce, and thyme sprigs.
- Combine the soup mixture with the sautéed mushrooms, half of the crunchy fried onions, and the green beans. Transfer everything to a large casserole dish.
Baking
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining onions on top, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.