Ultimate Green Bean Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for the perfect side dish to serve at family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even weeknight meals, this Ultimate Green Bean Casserole recipe is exactly what you need. Loaded with crispy bacon, tender mushrooms, gooey cheese, and topped with crunchy fried onions, this dish adds a rich, savory twist to the traditional green bean casserole. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why This Ultimate Green Bean Casserole Is Perfect for Everyone

This casserole isn’t just your standard green bean dish—it’s a mouthwatering combination of creamy mushroom soup, bacon, and Monterey Jack cheese, bringing a delightful burst of flavor. It’s perfect for those who want to elevate a classic recipe with more depth and texture. The added crunch of the French fried onions on top makes it a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy. Plus, it’s an easy make-ahead dish for busy days!

Ingredients Overview

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

• 6 strips of bacon: Adds a smoky, salty flavor that enhances the overall richness of the dish.
• 1/2 onion, finely diced: Provides a mild sweetness and depth to the flavor base.
• 1 1/2 cups chopped button mushrooms: Brings an earthy taste and complements the creaminess of the soup.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a touch of aromatic sharpness.
• 2 (10.5-ounce) cans of cream of mushroom condensed soup: Forms the creamy base of the casserole.
• 1/4 cup milk: Helps thin the soup for a smoother texture.
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Offers a creamy, melty consistency that binds the ingredients together.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning.
• 4 (14.5-ounce) cans cut green beans, drained: The star of the dish, offering a crisp-tender bite.
• 1 1/2 cups French fried onions: Creates a crispy, golden topping that adds texture.

this RECIPE

Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need a few key kitchen tools:

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Paper towels for draining bacon
• Oven mitts
• Nonstick cooking spray

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, cook the bacon until it becomes crispy. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Remove the bacon strips and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
3. Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms: Drain most of the bacon grease from the skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan for flavor. Add the finely diced onions to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent. Then, add the chopped button mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until the mushrooms are golden brown.
4. Add Garlic and Make the Sauce: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the undiluted cream of mushroom soup and the crumbled bacon. Stir everything together, ensuring the soup and bacon are evenly distributed. Add the 1/4 cup of milk and 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Stir over medium heat until the cheese is fully melted, creating a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine with Green Beans: Gently fold in the drained green beans, making sure they are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the green bean mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly in the dish.
7. Top with Fried Onions: Sprinkle the 1 1/2 cups of French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake: Place the casserole, uncovered, in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the fried onions are golden and crisp.

Tips for Preparing the Best Green Bean Casserole

• Drain the green beans well: Excess moisture can make the casserole watery. Drain and pat the green beans dry with paper towels before adding them to the sauce.
• Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own cheese will give a creamier result.
• Crispy bacon: Make sure the bacon is fully crisp before adding it back to the dish. Soft bacon won’t give the same satisfying crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the green beans: Since the green beans are canned, they are already cooked. Avoid cooking them for too long during preparation to maintain a slight crispness.
• Using low-quality mushrooms: Fresh button mushrooms add an earthy flavor. Avoid using canned mushrooms, which can be soggy and lack texture.
• Skipping the cheese: The cheese adds a layer of creaminess and flavor that takes this casserole to the next level, so don’t leave it out.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter to sauté the onions and mushrooms. You can also add more mushrooms to enhance the umami flavor.
• Lighter Version: Substitute turkey bacon or omit the cheese to reduce calories. You can also use low-fat or fat-free cream of mushroom soup for a lighter sauce.
• Add some spice: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a kick of heat.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve your Ultimate Green Bean Casserole as the centerpiece of a holiday meal or alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or ham. For a simple, elegant presentation, garnish the casserole with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley to brighten up the dish. You can also serve it in individual ramekins for a more refined look, perfect for special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because this casserole is so delicious!), simply cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

FAQ Section

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the casserole without the fried onions, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, sprinkle the fried onions on top and bake as directed.

Can I use frozen green beans instead of canned? Absolutely! If you prefer frozen green beans, just thaw and drain them well before using. This will ensure they have the right texture for the casserole.

What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup? If you prefer to avoid canned soup, you can make a homemade mushroom sauce using fresh mushrooms, butter, flour, and milk. It takes a little extra time but gives a fresh, from-scratch flavor.

Conclusion

This Ultimate Green Bean Casserole is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to bring a touch of comfort and flavor to the table. Its crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and crunchy onions make it a standout dish, perfect for both family dinners and special occasions. Try it out, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family. For more delicious recipes like this one, subscribe to our blog and stay updated on all the latest culinary creations!

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