Creamy Green Bean Casserole
A creamy green bean casserole featuring tender green beans, crispy onion rings, melted Cheddar cheese, and bacon, perfect for comforting family gatherings and holiday dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large casserole dish, layer green beans and French fried onion rings alternately.
- Mix together cream of mushroom soup, milk, and basil.
- Pour the mixture over the layered green beans and onions.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Cut bacon into 1-inch pieces and arrange on top of the cheese.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for about 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed garlic or onion to the green beans. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version or use a low-fat cream soup. You can also replace the sharp Cheddar cheese with a milder cheese if preferred. If you need a vegetarian option, omit the bacon entirely.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy green bean casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or ham, making it an ideal side dish for holiday gatherings. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting dinner, consider serving it with the Macaroni Ham Bake for a hearty combination.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover green bean casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Green Bean Casserole contains roughly 467 calories, with 21g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (45% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 705mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh green beans! Blanch them in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes and then shock them in ice water before layering in the casserole. This will help maintain their bright color and crisp texture.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
To make this green bean casserole gluten-free, ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free or make your own from scratch. Additionally, check that the French fried onion rings are gluten-free, or you can make them from scratch using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator covered for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed. This makes it a convenient dish for busy holiday cooking or weeknight dinners.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).