Introduction
Southern Green Bean Casserole is a heartwarming dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. With its creamy texture, savory mushrooms, and crispy fried onions, this casserole is not just a side dish but a celebration of flavors that brings families together. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or simply a cozy dinner at home, this dish turns humble green beans into a flavor-packed fiesta that everyone will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 4 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 can (10 ¾ oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping
- ½ cup crispy fried onions
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get ready to elevate your veggie game.
2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the green beans until just tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and spread them out in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the mushrooms until golden brown. Add them to the green beans and mix in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, crispy fried onions, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring every green bean gets some love.
5. Sprinkle the casserole with the reserved crispy fried onions and cheddar cheese for that extra yum factor.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbly. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Per serving, this dish brings a delightful mix of vegetables and cheese, making your taste buds sing while keeping things balanced.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get ready to elevate your veggie game.
Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the green beans until just tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and spread them out in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the mushrooms until golden brown. Add them to the green beans and mix in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, crispy fried onions, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring every green bean gets some love.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the casserole with the reserved crispy fried onions and cheddar cheese for that extra yum factor.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbly. Enjoy!
Notes
Tip 1: Green Bean Freshness
For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh green beans rather than canned ones.
Tip 2: Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as gouda or pepper jack, for a unique twist on the casserole.
Tip 3: Make Ahead
This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Tip 4: Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days; reheat in the oven for best results.
Cook techniques
Blanching Green Beans
Blanching green beans involves briefly boiling them in salted water before cooling them down in an ice bath. This technique preserves their bright green color and crisp-tender texture, ensuring the beans stay vibrant in your casserole.
Sautéing Mushrooms
Sautéing mushrooms enhances their flavor and reduces moisture. Cook them in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown, which intensifies their earthy taste and adds depth to the casserole.
Combining Ingredients
When mixing the casserole ingredients, make sure to stir gently but thoroughly. This ensures the cream of mushroom soup and milk evenly coat the green beans, mushrooms, and cheese, providing a harmonious blend of flavors in each bite.
Baking to Perfection
Baking the casserole allows the flavors to meld together while creating a golden, crispy topping. Keep an eye on the casserole in the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning the topping.
FAQ
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding them to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can use homemade cream of mushroom soup or replace it with cream of celery soup or even a béchamel sauce for a similar creamy consistency.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make the casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free crispy fried onions and a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy topping or in the microwave for convenience.
Conclusion
This Southern Green Bean Casserole is a delightful comfort dish that combines fresh ingredients with a crispy topping, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or family meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and textures as you savor each bite!
