Green Bean Casserole, I
A classic green bean casserole featuring creamy mushroom soup, crispy water chestnuts, and melted cheese, perfect as a comforting side dish for family gatherings or holiday dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour the cream of mushroom or celery soup over the drained green beans.
- Add sliced water chestnuts, minced onion, and cut-up cheese slices to the mixture.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 1 hour at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or a dash of Worcestershire sauce. You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with homemade mushroom sauce for a fresher taste. If you prefer a lighter version, try using low-fat cheese or omit the cheese altogether. To enhance the texture, incorporate some crushed crackers or French fried onions on top during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Green Bean Casserole pairs beautifully with roast turkey or ham, making it a perfect side dish for holiday gatherings. It can also be served alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with a hearty grain salad, like quinoa or farro, to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. For individual servings, you can also use the microwave, reheating in short intervals to avoid drying out the casserole.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Bean Casserole, I contains roughly 347 calories, with 6g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (13% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 771mg per serving (34% 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! Just blanch them in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes before adding them to the casserole. This will ensure they are tender and vibrant. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the beans are cooked to your desired tenderness.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this Green Bean Casserole gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. You can also replace any bread crumbs or crackers with gluten-free alternatives. Just check the labels to be safe, and this dish will easily fit into a gluten-free diet!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the refrigerator.
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).