Green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and crispy onions come together in this easy, comforting Classic Green Bean Casserole recipe.
Confession: when I moved halfway across the country, this casserole was the first “real family meal” I craved. I hadn’t seen my grandma since forever, and when I finally visited her in Kansas last summer, this dish was everywhere. I still remember that first bite around her messy kitchen table—right after Mom accidentally flicked salt into my hair (classic family moment, am I right?). I laughed until I cried, and it hit me: this isn’t just a side—it’s family in a dish. Makes me a little teary—and kinda happy—every time I make it.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe?
So, why does this green bean casserole keep its crown? First, it’s effortless: canned beans, canned soup, crispy onions, done. Second, it’s nostalgic: most of us grew up with this at Thanksgiving or potlucks. Third—and most importantly—the flavor is comforting in a cozy, soft sweater way. Creamy beans, salty fried onions… you’re not just eating, you’re remembering. Do you feel that too?
Ingredient Notes:
Here’s why every ingredient matters:
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Canned Green Beans – They’re soft and salty; work perfectly. But if you’re feeling fancy, fresh or frozen is great too—just blanch first.
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Cream of Mushroom Soup – The OG of creamy bases. It’s like the secret handshake in casserole culture.
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Milk – Smooths everything out. I use whole, but skim’s fine if that’s your vibe.
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French-Fried Onions – Half in, half on top. You need this crunch. It’s the spark of joy.
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Salt & Pepper – Simple seasoning that ties it all together. Taste before baking, always.
How To Make Classic Green Bean Casserole?
Step 1: Prep & Preheat
Turn your oven to 350°F. Get your casserole dish ready—just trust me on the timing.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a bowl (or straight in the dish if you’re feeling lazy), stir green beans, cream soup, milk, and half the onions until it all looks evenly coated.
Step 3: Bake Until Bubbling
Pop it in the oven for 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it bubbles at the edges and fills the kitchen with that familiar cozy smell.
Step 4: Top with Crunch
Pull it out, sprinkle the rest of the onions, and bake for another 5 minutes. That golden top is everything.
Step 5: Serve & Remember
Taste and add a pinch of salt or pepper if needed. Serve it warm, and you might just hear “this reminds me of…” from the table. Every. Time.
Want To Save This Recipe?
Storage Options:
Leftover green bean casserole? Kudos. Store it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave (bonus: those crispy onions soften—still yummy). Freezer? I’d pass. The texture gets… weird.
Variations and Substitutions:
A little change-up never hurt:
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Fresh or frozen beans: Blanch first, then bake.
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Different soups: Cream of celery or chicken work too.
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Extra flavor: Sauté mushrooms, toss in bacon, stir in cheddar—bring it.
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Healthier swap: Use low-fat soup and milk, or go lighter with Greek yogurt (just a hint).
What to Serve with Classic Green Bean Casserole?
This casserole is the sidekick you didn’t know you needed:
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Turkey or ham—holiday staples
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Roasted sweet potatoes or stuffing
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Cranberries or glazed carrots—sweet meets savory
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Crunchy salad—because balance, right?
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Assemble, cover, store overnight, then bake next day—add a couple extra minutes if cold from the fridge.
Is it spicy?
Nah, it’s classic and mellow. But if you’re bold, a dash of cayenne on top works wonders.
Can I use fresh green beans?
Absolutely. Blanch them for a couple minutes, drain, then follow the recipe.
Classic Green Bean Casserole isn’t fancy, but it is family. It’s the dish that brings memories to life and keeps them warm. Whether you’re baking it for the holidays or a Tuesday night dinner, it’s a hug in a dish.
If this casserole reminds you of a family memory—maybe that weird uncle’s joke at Thanksgiving—share it below. I’d love to hear your stories.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Classic Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cans 15 oz each of cut green beans, drained
- 1 can 10.5 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 can 2.8 oz French-fried onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Ingredients
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure all ingredients are gathered and prepared, including draining the green beans.
Combine the Ingredients
- In a medium-sized casserole dish, mix together the drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the French-fried onions. Stir until evenly incorporated.
Bake the Casserole
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the mixture is heated through and bubbling at the edges.
Add Final Topping
- Carefully remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the remaining French-fried onions evenly over the top.
Finish Baking and Season
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onion topping is golden and crisp. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
