Green bean casserole is one of those timeless dishes that show up on nearly every Thanksgiving table, and for good reason. It’s creamy, savory, and crowned with a crunchy onion topping that makes everyone reach for seconds. Whether you’re serving a crowd or cooking a cozy holiday dinner at home, this casserole adds the perfect touch of comfort and tradition. Best of all, it’s quick, affordable, and easy enough to pull together even during the busiest cooking day of the year.
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Why You’ll Love This Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Hi, I’m Saly. I’m a wife, a home cook, and someone who’s learned that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. If a dish has fewer steps and more flavor, I’m all in. And green bean casserole? That’s exactly what this is.
The first time I made it for Thanksgiving, I was already juggling a roast turkey and a pie in the oven. I needed something quick but still comforting, and this casserole delivered. My husband took a bite, gave me that familiar wide-eyed “wow” look, and it became a must-have from that year on.
What makes this dish so lovable isn’t just the taste (though the crispy fried onions on top are addictive), it’s how little effort it takes to create something rich, creamy, and deeply nostalgic. Plus, it pairs beautifully with almost everything on the Thanksgiving table, from Roast Turkey to sweet potato sides and Garlic Butter Bread Rolls.
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Green Bean Casserole
A creamy, crunchy, and classic green bean casserole; the perfect Thanksgiving side dish. Ready in under 40 minutes using simple pantry ingredients.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
4 cups green beans (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
2/3 cup milk
1 tsp soy sauce
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1 1/3 cups crispy fried onions
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stir in green beans and half the fried onions until fully coated.
4. Transfer mixture to the baking dish and spread evenly.
5. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
6. Sprinkle remaining fried onions on top and return to oven for 5–10 more minutes, until golden and bubbly.
Notes
Use fresh, frozen, or canned green beans, just make sure they’re cooked tender-crisp before baking.
To make it cheesier, add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Gruyère to the mixture.
To prep ahead, assemble casserole and refrigerate without topping; bake just before serving.
Gluten-free and vegan options are easily adaptable with alternative ingredients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 175
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need fancy ingredients for this dish, and that’s part of its magic. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Green beans – Fresh or frozen both work. Just make sure they’re cooked tender-crisp.
- Cream of mushroom soup – Classic and convenient. Use homemade if you prefer, but canned works great.
- Milk – Helps thin the soup and create that luscious sauce.
- Soy sauce – Adds subtle depth and balance to the creamy base.
- Black pepper – Just enough to season without overpowering.
- Crispy fried onions – The golden, crunchy crown. Save half for topping at the end.
This is one of those recipes where shortcuts still lead to a seriously satisfying dish. It pairs beautifully with other holiday favorites like Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole, giving your Thanksgiving table a comforting mix of savory and sweet.
How to Make It – Step by Step
Here’s how to pull this casserole together in under 40 minutes:
- Prep the oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish. - Mix the base
In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and pepper until smooth. - Add the beans and onions
Stir in the green beans and half the fried onions. Mix until everything is well-coated. - Bake the casserole
Pour the mixture into your prepared dish. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes. - Top and finish
Sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top and return to the oven for another 5–10 minutes until golden and bubbling.
That’s it! It’s easy enough for a weeknight but festive enough to stand proudly on your holiday table next to dishes like Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast.
Tips and Variations
This casserole is wonderfully forgiving. Here are a few simple tweaks and tips:
- Add cheese
Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar or Gruyère for an extra indulgent version. - Make it from scratch
Sauté fresh mushrooms with garlic and shallots, then stir in cream and a touch of flour for a homemade sauce. - Go gluten-free
Use gluten-free mushroom soup and onions; they’re easy to find in most grocery stores. - Try a vegan twist
Sub in plant-based soup, non-dairy milk, and vegan crispy onions for a casserole everyone can enjoy.
Want another easy side dish that’s big on flavor? These Baked Cranberry Brie Bites are always a hit; flaky, cheesy, and ready in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this green bean casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the base and store it in the fridge up to 24 hours in advance. Add the crispy topping just before baking to keep it crunchy.
What kind of green beans should I use?
Fresh, frozen, or canned all work. If using fresh, blanch first. For frozen, thaw and drain. Canned beans are ready to go, but rinse and drain well.
Can I use something other than mushroom soup?
Sure. Cream of celery or even a cheesy sauce can work well. Just keep the consistency creamy, not runny.
How long does it keep?
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. Keep in mind the crispy topping will soften slightly over time.
Planning ahead? Pair this with a sweet classic like Sweet Potato Casserole and you’ve got your Thanksgiving sides covered.
Conclusion: A Comforting Classic That Belongs on Every Table
Green bean casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a nostalgic, comforting classic that brings balance to every Thanksgiving plate. With its creamy sauce, tender green beans, and that golden onion crunch, it’s no surprise this dish has stood the test of time.
What I love most is how it brings people together. It’s not fancy, but it’s flavorful. Not complicated, but always appreciated. Whether you’re hosting a big dinner or keeping things simple, this casserole will feel right at home.
And if you’re like me; someone who loves creating meals that are both easy and unforgettable, then this recipe just might become your new holiday tradition.
For more easy and satisfying recipes, join me on Pinterest – where good food meets great company!
