Popular Green Bean Casserole
A classic green bean casserole featuring tender French-style green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions — perfect for holiday gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Defrost the beans by placing the packages in a single layer in the microwave oven.
- Microwave on Low for 10 to 12 minutes, turning over and rearranging packages every 2 to 3 minutes.
- Separate the beans into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Mix the beans with the canned cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sliced drained pimentos until well blended.
- Cook the mixture until it reaches 170°F, covered loosely with plastic wrap to vent.
- When the oven reaches 170°F, arrange the French fried onions in a ring around the edge of the dish; toss to mix if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or freshly ground black pepper to the mixture. For a lighter version, substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade mushroom sauce or a healthier canned alternative. You can also swap the French fried onions for homemade crispy shallots for a fresher taste. If you prefer a thicker casserole, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the soup mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This green bean casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or glazed ham, making it an ideal side dish for holiday meals. Serve alongside mashed potatoes or cornbread for a complete comfort food experience. For a vegetarian option, you can serve it with a hearty salad or alongside other American recipes like Rice Ambrosia for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power in 1-minute intervals until heated through. For a crispier topping, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Popular Green Bean Casserole contains roughly 279 calories, with 5g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium.
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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the green bean mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add the French fried onions right before baking to keep them crispy.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you want a substitute for cream of mushroom soup, you can use a homemade white sauce with sautéed mushrooms or a vegan cream soup alternative. This will maintain the creamy texture while allowing for dietary preferences.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure that the French fried onions are also gluten-free. Check labels carefully or consider making your own crispy onion topping to avoid 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).