What is String Bean Casserole?

String bean casserole is a beloved dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or anytime you’re craving a comforting side dish. With its creamy base, tender green beans, and crispy topping, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Learn how to make this easy and delicious casserole with simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions.

String bean casserole is a classic American side dish, typically made with green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and topped with crispy French fried onions. It’s a dish that’s traditionally served during Thanksgiving and Christmas but can be enjoyed at any time of the year. The combination of tender green beans in a creamy sauce, paired with a crunchy topping, makes it an irresistible addition to any meal.

Ingredients for String Bean Casserole

Making this dish requires just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your string bean casserole:

Fresh or frozen green beans: 4 cups (fresh or thawed if frozen)
Cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces), or homemade if preferred
Milk: 1/2 cup (whole milk gives the creamiest texture)
Onion: 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped (optional)
Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon (optional for added flavor)
Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded (optional for a cheesy variation)
French fried onions: 1 cup (for the crispy topping)
Butter: 2 tablespoons (for greasing the baking dish)

How to Make String Bean Casserole: Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a delicious string bean casserole your whole family will love!

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans

Blanch Fresh Green Beans:
If you’re using fresh green beans, start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 4-5 minutes, just until they are tender-crisp. This process helps preserve their vibrant color and texture.
Cool and Drain:
Once blanched, transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain the beans thoroughly and set them aside.If you’re using frozen green beans, simply thaw and drain them.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
If you want to add more flavor, include chopped onions and garlic powder to the mixture. These ingredients add a savory depth to the dish.
For a cheesy twist, fold in shredded cheddar cheese. This step is optional but gives the casserole a creamy, cheesy texture that many people love.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent the casserole from sticking.
Add the blanched green beans to the casserole mixture, stirring gently to coat the beans evenly in the creamy sauce.
Pour the entire mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.

Step 4: Add the Topping

Sprinkle the French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole. These will crisp up beautifully in the oven, providing a perfect contrast to the creamy beans underneath.
If you’ve opted for a cheesy casserole, feel free to add an extra layer of shredded cheese on top before adding the fried onions. This extra layer of cheese will melt and add even more richness to the dish.

Step 5: Bake the Bean-Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbling and the fried onions on top are golden brown and crispy.
Optional: If you want a crunchier topping, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the casserole is done baking, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and makes it easier to slice.
Serve the casserole hot as a side dish to your main course, whether it’s roasted turkey, grilled chicken, or a vegetarian entrée. The creamy, crunchy layers are sure to impress!

Tips for Making the Best String Bean Casserole

Use fresh ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh green beans, especially when they are in season. If you use frozen beans, be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the casserole.
Customize the flavor: Add extra spices like onion powder, paprika, or parsley for an additional layer of flavor.
Make it cheesy: If you love cheese, don’t hesitate to add more shredded cheddar or even mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy casserole.
Prepare ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This is perfect for busy holiday dinners or family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This String Bean Casserole Recipe

This string bean casserole is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and crispy. The fresh green beans provide a tender bite, while the creamy mushroom soup base adds richness. The French fried onions on top offer the ideal crunchy contrast, making every bite satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a holiday meal or just want a delicious side for dinner, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit!

Variations of String Bean Casserole to Try

Cheesy String Bean Casserole: Add an extra cup of shredded cheese to the casserole mixture or sprinkle more cheese on top before baking.
Vegan String Bean Casserole: Use a vegan cream of mushroom soup and substitute the milk with almond milk or coconut milk. Top with vegan-friendly crispy onions.
Bacon String Bean Casserole: Add crispy bacon bits to the casserole for a savory, smoky twist.

Why String Bean Casserole is the Perfect Side Dish ?

String bean casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together. The creamy, savory mushroom soup base is perfectly balanced with the fresh green beans, and the crispy French fried onions add the ideal texture and flavor contrast. Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner, a holiday gathering, or simply preparing a cozy meal for yourself, string bean casserole is an excellent choice that never fails to impress.

One of the things that make this dish so loved is its versatility. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. For example, if you’re in the mood for something cheesy, add more shredded cheddar or mozzarella to make the casserole extra rich. For those who prefer a healthier version, you can substitute low-fat milk or use a plant-based cream of mushroom soup for a vegan twist. You can even throw in extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

This casserole is also a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble it the night before, store it in the fridge, and pop it into the oven when you’re ready to serve. It’s the perfect stress-free dish for busy holiday meals or weeknight dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About String Bean Casserole

Can I make string bean casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole the day before and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven for about 30-40 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes! Frozen green beans work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them fully and drain any excess water before adding them to the casserole.

How long does leftover string bean casserole last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until warm.

Conclusion: A Comforting String Bean Casserole for Any Meal

This string bean casserole is a timeless dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. It’s creamy, crispy, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday dinner or a casual family meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

For more delicious and easy-to-make dinner ideas, check out our Dinner Recipes category! Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight meals, comforting classics, or special holiday dishes, we’ve got a variety of recipes to suit every taste and occasion. Start exploring and find your next favorite dinner today.

Bean Casserole Recipe: Creamy, Crispy, and Perfect for Every Meal

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