5 Must-Try Green Bean Casserole Recipes

Green bean casserole is a beloved side dish that has graced holiday tables, potlucks, and family dinners for decades. Its origin can be traced back to the iconic recipe created by Campbell's Soup Company in the 1950s, but since then, variations and twists have made this casserole a canvas for culinary creativity. Whether you're a traditionalist or looking for a gourmet flair, we've compiled five must-try green bean casserole recipes that are bound to impress and satisfy the taste buds of every guest at your table.

1. Classic Green Bean Casserole

Let’s start with the classic version - the one that everyone knows and loves.

• Ingredients: fresh green beans, Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, French fried onions, milk, soy sauce, black pepper.
• Preparation:
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. Blanch the green beans until they are bright green and tender, then shock them in ice water.
  3. Mix the soup, milk, soy sauce, pepper, and drained beans in a casserole dish.
  4. Add half of the onions on top, bake for 25 minutes, and then sprinkle the remaining onions for an extra crunch and bake for another 5 minutes.

🔎 Note: This recipe uses soy sauce to add depth and umami to the dish.

2. Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

For those who love cheese, this version elevates the comfort of the classic casserole with layers of melted cheese.

• Ingredients: green beans, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, onion, garlic, bacon, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper.
• Preparation:
  1. Follow the preparation steps for the classic casserole.
  2. Add cheese and crispy bacon bits into the mixture before baking.
  3. After baking for 20 minutes, top with breadcrumbs and more cheese, then bake until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

🧀 Note: Sharp cheddar works best for its sharp, distinct flavor.

3. Mediterranean Green Bean Casserole

Bringing the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to this dish, this version is both colorful and delicious.

• Ingredients: green beans, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, oregano, basil, garlic, panko breadcrumbs, olive oil.
• Preparation:
  1. Blanch green beans as in the classic recipe.
  2. In a pan, sauté garlic with olives, tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Mix this with the beans, feta, and some breadcrumb-olive oil mixture.
  3. Layer in the casserole dish and bake until bubbly, finishing with a sprinkle of panko for extra texture.

4. Vegan Green Bean Casserole

A plant-based option that doesn’t skimp on flavor or comfort.

• Ingredients: green beans, cashew cream, sautéed mushrooms, garlic, onion, nutritional yeast, vegan breadcrumb topping, salt, pepper.
• Preparation:
  1. Prepare a cashew cream by blending soaked cashews with water and nutritional yeast until smooth.
  2. Sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms to create a base. Mix this with the green beans, cashew cream, salt, and pepper.
  3. Top with vegan breadcrumbs and bake until everything is heated through and golden on top.

🍄 Note: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor profile to the vegan casserole.

5. Smoky BBQ Green Bean Casserole

This variation introduces a smoky, slightly sweet flavor profile to the traditional casserole.

• Ingredients: green beans, BBQ sauce, onions, cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, fried shallots.
• Preparation:
  1. Prepare the beans as per the classic recipe.
  2. Mix cream cheese with BBQ sauce, add half of the bacon and onions, then mix in the beans.
  3. Layer this into a dish, sprinkle with cheese, and finish with fried shallots and the remaining bacon before baking.

In this gourmet guide, we’ve explored several green bean casserole recipes, each providing a unique spin on a classic dish. From the traditional creamy casserole to innovative vegan, Mediterranean, and BBQ variations, there’s a version for every taste and dietary preference. These recipes not only showcase the versatility of green beans but also encourage cooks to experiment with flavors and textures. In your next gathering or holiday feast, consider trying one of these must-try recipes to delight and surprise your guests with a casserole that’s both comforting and imaginative.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making green bean casserole?

+

Overcooking the beans, using old or tough beans, not draining them properly, or adding too much salt can ruin the texture and flavor of the casserole.

Can I make green bean casserole ahead of time?

+

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Mix all ingredients together and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking to keep it crunchy.

How do I make my green bean casserole gluten-free?

+

Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup, check that your soy sauce is gluten-free, and use gluten-free fried onions or make your own with gluten-free flour.