Classic Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is usually a staple at every holiday gathering in the South, from Thanksgiving to family potlucks. And while we love variations on a classic—like this slow-cooker green bean casserole—this traditional version is the one you should serve up every time you get the chance.

Green Bean Casserole Ingredients

To make green bean casserole, start with a package of frozen haricot verts. (These may also be labeled as extra-fine green beans.)

You’ll also need canned mushroom soup, heavy whipping cream, crispy fried onions, and Parmesan cheese. All ingredients are widely accessible.

How to Make Green Bean Casserole

This easy green bean casserole takes just 10 active minutes to prepare. To make it, first preheat the oven to 350°F. Stir together the green beans, soup, heavy cream, onions, and cheese. (If using fresh haricot verts instead of frozen, blanch them first.) Transfer this mixture into a baking dish, topping with onions and cheese.

Tip: Adding the grated Parmesan cheese before the fried onions allows it to melt better. 

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, and bake it in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes Uncover it, and continue to bake until the cheese is golden, approximately another 20 minutes. Last, remove it from the oven, and let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.

How Do You Keep Green Bean Casserole From Becoming Mushy?

Because canned green beans are pre-cooked, frozen haricot verts are a preferable option to keep this green bean casserole from getting mushy. In this dish, the crunch from the fried onions also serves as a perfect balance for the creaminess of the haricot verts after cooking.

If you choose a green bean casserole recipe that calls for fresh beans (instead of frozen as in this recipe), avoid overcooking them as doing so can result in an undesirably mushy texture. 

Can I Make Green Bean Casserole Ahead of Time and Refrigerate It?

You can prepare green bean casserole ahead of time, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for about three days before baking. (Leave off the crispy onions before storage.)

If you will be baking after fridge storage, add a few minutes to the cook time to accommodate the temperature. Or let it stand for about 30 minutes at room temperature before baking.

What Main Dish Goes With Green Bean Casserole?

Green bean casserole is a classic comfort-food side dish, creamy and flavorful, ideal as a hearty holiday side dish at Thanksgiving or Christmas. 

Try serving it with our recipes for Sweet and Spicy Roast Turkey, Roast Turkey with Herbed Rub, Classic Roasted Duck with Orange-Bourbon-Molasses Glaze, or Veal Chops Milanese with Lemon and Herbs.

Editorial contributions by Alesandra Dubin.