🇺🇸 USA · Food

Classic Green Bean Casserole

20 min
Quicker than a pizza delivery
🔥 280 kcal
Nicely balanced
🍽 4 servings
Great for the family

By eatmundo · July 5, 2026

Classic Green Bean Casserole🇺🇸 USStephanie Clifford from Arlington, VA, USA · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

A quintessential American holiday side dish, the Green Bean Casserole is a creamy, savory bake made with tender green beans, a rich cream of mushroom soup base, and topped with crispy fried onions. It's a comforting and flavorful addition to any festive meal, especially Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

How to Make It

  • 1

    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 1.5-quart (1.4L) baking dish.

  • 2

    In a large bowl, combine 2 (14.5 oz/410g) cans green beans (drained), 1 (10.5 oz/300g) can cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup (120ml) milk, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Stir well to combine.

  • 3

    Stir in 2/3 cup (50g) crispy fried onions, reserving the remaining onions for the topping.

  • 4

    Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

  • 5

    Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbling hot.

  • 6

    Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions over the top, and bake for another 5 minutes, or until onions are golden brown. Serve hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which type of green beans (fresh, frozen, or canned) is best for a classic green bean casserole?+

For a classic green bean casserole, frozen cut green beans are often preferred for convenience and texture. If using fresh, blanch them first; if using canned, drain them very well to avoid a watery casserole.

Should I use canned cream of mushroom soup or fresh mushrooms for the sauce?+

While traditional recipes often call for canned cream of mushroom soup, using fresh mushrooms (like cremini or button) and making a homemade béchamel or cream sauce provides a richer, less processed flavor. Sauté them before adding to the sauce.

What's the best way to ensure crispy fried onions for the topping?+

For the crispiest topping, add the French fried onions during the last 10-15 minutes of baking, ensuring they don't burn but get golden brown. If making homemade crispy onions, dredge them in flour and deep fry until golden.

How can I prevent my green bean casserole from becoming watery?+

To prevent a watery casserole, ensure green beans (especially canned or blanched fresh ones) are thoroughly drained before mixing. Also, avoid over-diluting your cream sauce.

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