The Classic Green Bean Casserole brings together crisp-tender green beans, creamy sauce, and golden crispy onions in every bite. This dish delivers a perfect balance of textures, from the silky sauce to the crunchy topping, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
With just 10 minutes of prep and 40 minutes in the oven, this comforting American classic is as easy as it is satisfying. The rich, savory flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both hearty and nostalgic—ideal for holiday dinners or cozy weeknight meals.
What You’ll Need for Classic Green Bean Casserole
- 10.75 ounces cream of mushroom soup (1 can, condensed)
- ¼ cup milk (whole or 2% works best)
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper (freshly ground for extra flavor)
- 2 cans (14 ounces each) green beans (drained; fresh or frozen can be used as substitutes)
- 1 ⅓ cups fried onions (French’s recommended, divided into ⅔ cups and ⅔ cups)
How to Make Classic Green Bean Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Drain the green beans thoroughly and gently fold them into the soup mixture.
- Add ⅔ cups of fried onions to the mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a 9×9 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining ⅔ cups of fried onions on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Storage and Reheating Made Easy
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. For a quick option, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but note that the fried onions may lose some crispiness.
Recipe Variations to Try
Swap out cream of mushroom soup for cream of celery or chicken for a different flavor profile. Add a cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture for a cheesy twist, or mix in some cooked, crumbled bacon for extra savoriness. For a healthier take, use fresh or frozen green beans instead of canned.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
Pre-measure your ingredients ahead of time to speed up prep. Use a pair of kitchen scissors to snip the fried onions directly into the casserole to save time (and avoid a mess). If you’re really in a rush, assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions to Complete the Meal
This Classic Green Bean Casserole pairs beautifully with a roasted turkey, ham, or baked chicken for a hearty dinner. Add a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad to round out the meal. For a casual gathering, serve it alongside a basket of warm dinner rolls and some butter.
Equipment Guidance for Perfect Results
A 9×9-inch baking dish works best for this recipe, ensuring the casserole bakes evenly. If you don’t have one, a 2-quart casserole dish will also do the trick. Use a mixing bowl with a lid for easy cleanup—shake to combine the ingredients instead of stirring!
Classic Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
- 10.75 ounces cream of mushroom soup
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 2 14 ounce green beans, canned
- 1 1/3 cups fried onions, French’s
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine soup, milk, and pepper.
- Drain your green beans. Fold in green beans and ⅔ cups onions.
- Pour into a 9×9 inch pan. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle on remaining fried onions.
- Bake for 5-10 more minutes or until onions are golden brown.