Ever had green beans so creamy and crunchy, they steal the show at dinner?
This Green Bean Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, combining tender green beans with a rich, delicious sauce and a crispy topping. Plus, it’s a quick and easy dish perfect for weekday meals or holiday gatherings. You might just find yourself making it on repeat!
Why make this recipe
You’ll love this recipe for a few reasons! First off, cleanup is a breeze since it’s made in one pan. Who wants to spend all evening washing dishes? Next, it’s totally family-friendly, so even the pickiest eaters will dig in when they see that golden, bubbly top. And hello, bacon and cheese? Yes, please!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup fried onion rings
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, crumbled bacon, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in the green beans until well coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with fried onion rings.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
How to make Green Bean Casserole (Overview)
Making this casserole is as easy as pie (or easier, if we’re being honest)! Start by preheating your oven, then give those green beans a quick dunk in boiling water. Next, whip up your creamy mixture, and don’t forget to fold in your beans. Toss it all in a baking dish, sprinkle those crispy onion rings on top, and let the oven do its magic. Pro tip: Keep an eye on it the last few minutes—nobody likes a burnt topping!
How to serve Green Bean Casserole
Serve up this casserole with a nice, warm crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce. The vibrant green of the beans pops against the rich, creamy backdrop, while the golden onion rings add a lovely crunch. You might even want to drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top for an extra punch of flavor! Ah, the aroma alone will have everyone racing to the table!
How to store Green Bean Casserole
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 3-5 days. Just pop it in an airtight container. If you want to store it longer, freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in the oven at a low temperature until heated through. Make-ahead hack: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and just bake it when you’re ready!
Tips to make Green Bean Casserole
- Timing is key: Don’t overcook the green beans when blanching—they should still be a little crisp.
- Swap bacon for crispy shallots for a vegetarian twist!
- Use low-fat cream if you want to lighten it up—just don’t tell the family. 😉
- Throw in a pinch of garlic powder for an extra kick!
- Feeling adventurous? Add some mushrooms into the creamy mix for a hearty touch.
Variation
For a vegan version, simply substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative and ditch the bacon in favor of sautéed mushrooms or smoky tempeh. You can still top it with the fried onion rings for that satisfying crunch!
FAQs
Can I make Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day early and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.What can I use instead of fried onion rings?
You can use fresh sautéed onions or even crispy breadcrumbs for a different texture.Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking for up to 2 months! Just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, crumbled bacon, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in the green beans until well coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with fried onion rings.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.