Grandma’s Thanksgiving Green Bean Casserole
As the leaves begin to turn crisp and the air fills with the warm scent of pumpkin spice, I can’t help but reminisce about my childhood Thanksgivings spent in my grandmother’s bustling kitchen. Green bean casserole was a staple at our family gatherings, combining tender green beans and creamy goodness topped with those tantalizing crispy onions. This dish isn’t just a recipe; it’s a heartwarming tradition that brings everyone to the table, sharing laughter and stories over the years.
The beauty of this green bean casserole lies in its rich, savory flavor nestled among the festive colors of the season. It’s the ultimate comfort dish that embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving, yet it’s so delicious you might find yourself making it long after the turkey is gone! You’ll adore how this uncomplicated recipe fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and creates a connection to those cherished moments with family.
Why You’ll Love This Green Bean Casserole
- Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together in just one bowl!
- Kid-Approved: The creamy texture and crispy topping will please even picky eaters.
- Customizable: Modify it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for Thanksgiving prep—make it the day before!
- Classic Comfort: A nostalgic dish that evokes warmth and tradition.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions (divided)
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Green Beans
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Blanch Green Beans: Add the trimmed green beans to the boiling water. Cook for 3–4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Drain and Ice Bath: Drain the beans and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop cooking.
Mix the Ingredients
- Combine: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper until well blended.
- Season: Add the blanched green beans and 1 cup of French fried onions to the mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
Bake the Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with Onions: Sprinkle the remaining 1/3 cup of French fried onions on top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
Serve
- Cool Slightly: Let your casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Tips & Variations
- Make it Vegan: Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a vegan alternative, and use almond milk.
- Add Protein: Feel free to toss in some cooked diced turkey or chicken for added protein.
- Mushroom Lover’s Twist: Mix in sautéed mushrooms for a deeper flavor!
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the casserole uncooked for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Calories per serving: 150
- Servings: 6
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can, but make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding to the dish.
2. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You may substitute with cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms and heavy cream.
3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Ensure you use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and French fried onions.
4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, refrigerate it, and then bake it right before dinner.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair this green bean casserole with succulent roasted turkey, stuffing, and homemade cranberry sauce. For drinks, a chilled chardonnay or a sparkling cider complements the dish perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This green bean casserole is not only a recipe but also a heartfelt tribute to the memories created around the dinner table. I hope it brings as much joy to your family as it has to mine! Please feel free to share your version of this classic dish or comment below with your favorite Thanksgiving recipes. Happy cooking!