Delicious Southern Green Bean Casserole prepared with fresh ingredients.

Southern Green Bean Casserole

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why make this recipe

This dish is simple and comforting. It uses easy ingredients and cooks fast. It fits big dinners and weeknight meals. For a similar classic take, see Southern style green bean casserole for more ideas.

introduction

This Southern Green Bean Casserole is creamy and crunchy. The green beans stay bright and firm. The topping adds a nice crisp. You can make it plain or add bacon for more flavor. For another rich version, try the homestyle Southern Green Bean Casserole page for inspiration.

how to make Southern Green Bean Casserole

Follow a few clear steps. Blanch the beans first so they stay green. Mix the soup, milk, and cheese for a creamy base. Add bacon if you want a smoky taste. Top with onions or breadcrumbs and bake. For a very creamy, crunchy top idea, see this best ever green bean casserole extra creamy with crispy onions note.

Ingredients :

  • 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup crispy fried onions
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 slices of bacon (optional, for bacon-infused option)
  • Gluten-free breadcrumbs (for gluten-free option)

Directions :

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Blanch green beans in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
  4. If making the bacon-infused version, cook bacon until crispy, then crumble and mix into the soup mixture.
  5. Add the blanched green beans to the mixture and stir to combine.
  6. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with crispy fried onions.
  7. For gluten-free, sprinkle gluten-free breadcrumbs on top instead of fried onions.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
  9. Serve warm.

how to serve Southern Green Bean Casserole

Serve warm on a plate or in a bowl. It goes well with roast meat, turkey, or ham. Let it rest 5 minutes after baking so it sets a little. You can add extra fried onions on top just before serving.

how to store Southern Green Bean Casserole

Cool the casserole to room temperature. Cover tightly and put in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Southern Green Bean Casserole

  • Trim and blanch beans for the best texture.
  • Use sharp cheddar for more flavor.
  • Do not overcook beans when blanching; they should stay firm.
  • If you like crisp topping, add extra fried onions after baking.
  • For less salt, use low-sodium soup and add salt to taste.

variation (if any)

  • Bacon-infused: add cooked, crumbled bacon to the mix.
  • Gluten-free: use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers on top.
  • Extra cheesy: add more shredded cheese into the mix or on top before baking.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain frozen green beans well before mixing. You may skip blanching.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble and cover in the fridge. Bake when ready. Add topping just before baking if you want it very crisp.

Q: How do I make it less creamy?
A: Use less milk or more cheese, and bake a little longer to reduce moisture.

Q: Can I use a different mushroom soup?
A: You can use cream of chicken or onion soup, but the flavor will change.