Good Old Green Bean Casserole
A classic comfort food dish featuring tender green beans in a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crispy fried onions and pimiento for added flavor. Perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners, this casserole offers a savory, crunchy, and satisfying side that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook frozen green beans according to package directions; drain.
- Combine cooked beans, milk, cream of mushroom soup, and ground black pepper in a bowl.
- Add half of the fried onions to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 minutes or microwave, covered, for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Top with remaining fried onions and diced pimiento.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes or microwave uncovered on High for 1 minute, then let stand for 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a dash of garlic powder or substituting the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version using fresh mushrooms and cream. If you're short on time, fresh green beans can be used instead of frozen, just blanch them for a few minutes before mixing. You can also swap in low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative to suit dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this green bean casserole alongside classic American recipes like roast turkey or glazed ham for a holiday feast. It also pairs well with a fresh salad, such as Pineapple Delight Salad, to balance the richness of the dish. For a more casual meal, consider serving it with a side of cornbread or mashed potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover green bean casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave it on medium until warm, stirring occasionally. Avoid overcooking to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Good Old Green Bean Casserole contains roughly 102 calories, with 3g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (13% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it without the fried onions on top, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, add the fried onions and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for holiday gatherings or busy weeknights.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh green beans, trim and cut them into 1-inch pieces, then blanch them in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes before mixing them into the casserole. This helps to soften them slightly and ensures they cook evenly with the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, to make the casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup or make your own. Additionally, ensure that the fried onions are labeled gluten-free, as some brands may use wheat flour in their coating. This way, you can enjoy this classic dish without gluten.
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).