Delicious Southern-Style Green Bean Casserole served in a rustic dish

Southern-Style Green Bean Casserole

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why make this recipe

This Southern-Style Green Bean Casserole is simple, creamy, and quick to make. It uses common pantry items and makes a tasty side for holidays or weeknight dinners. The dish feeds a crowd and pairs well with many main courses.

introduction

This classic side mixes green beans, mushroom soup, and crispy onions for a warm, comforting dish. If you want another Southern take, you can read the Southern-style green bean casserole recipe for a similar version and ideas.

how to make Southern-Style Green Bean Casserole

Make the casserole in a few easy steps: mix drained green beans with soup and milk, stir in some fried onions, top with cheese and the rest of the onions, then bake. For a richer texture and extra cream, see the best ever green bean casserole extra creamy with crispy onions for ideas you can borrow.

Ingredients :

  • 2 cans of green beans (drained)
  • 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup of milk
  • 1 cup of French fried onions
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Directions :

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and salt and pepper.
  3. Stir in 1/2 cup of the French fried onions.
  4. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with the remaining French fried onions and shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbling.
  6. Serve hot as a side dish at your holiday meals.

how to serve Southern-Style Green Bean Casserole

Serve this casserole hot from the oven alongside roast turkey, baked ham, or grilled chicken. For a crunchy contrast, add fresh green salad or roasted root vegetables. If you want a different classic style, check the best green bean casserole for serving ideas.

how to store Southern-Style Green Bean Casserole

Let the casserole cool to room temperature. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and place in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until hot. Do not leave the dish at room temperature for more than two hours.

tips to make Southern-Style Green Bean Casserole

  • Drain the canned green beans well to avoid a watery casserole.
  • Stir halfway when baking if your oven heats unevenly.
  • Use half the fried onions inside and the rest on top for best crunch.
  • Add cheddar cheese only if you like a cheesy top.

variation (if any)

  • Fresh or frozen green beans: Blanch fresh beans or thaw frozen before using.
  • Mushroom lovers: Add sliced fresh mushrooms and sauté before mixing.
  • Bacon: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon on top for a smoky flavor.
  • Lighter version: Use low-fat soup and milk, and skip the cheese.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
A: Yes. Blanch fresh green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then cool and drain before using.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready and add extra baking time if the dish is cold.

Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: You can freeze it before baking. Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking and add a few extra minutes in the oven.

Q: Do I have to use cream of mushroom soup?
A: You can use a homemade white sauce or another cream soup, but the mushroom soup gives the classic flavor.

Q: How do I keep the fried onions crunchy?
A: Add most of the fried onions just before baking and add a fresh sprinkle right after baking to keep them crisp.