Introduction
Nothing says comfort and tradition quite like a warm serving of French’s green bean casserole. Known for its creamy texture, crisp onion topping, and rich flavor, this dish has been a holiday favorite for generations. It combines tender green beans with creamy mushroom soup and the irresistible crunch of French’s fried onions, creating a perfect balance of flavor and texture in every bite. Families across the country rely on this simple yet satisfying recipe to bring warmth and nostalgia to their dinner tables.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. It takes just a few pantry staples and a few minutes of prep to create something truly delicious. Whether you are preparing a Thanksgiving feast, a Sunday dinner, or a cozy weeknight meal, French’s green bean casserole delivers the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and crispy goodness. It is one of those timeless recipes that connects generations and makes any meal feel a little more special.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Canned green beans | 4 cups (about 2 cans) | 140 |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | 230 |
| Milk | ½ cup | 60 |
| French’s fried onions | 1 ½ cups | 300 |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | 2 |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | 0 |
| Garlic powder | ¼ teaspoon | 2 |
| Butter (optional, for greasing) | 1 tablespoon | 100 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a casserole dish with butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the mixture and stir until well blended.
Step 4: Drain the canned green beans and add them to the bowl, stirring gently to coat them evenly in the sauce.
Step 5: Stir in two-thirds of the French’s fried onions, reserving the rest for topping later.
Step 6: Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
Step 7: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about twenty-five minutes until the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
Step 8: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining fried onions evenly over the top.
Step 9: Return the dish to the oven and bake for another five to seven minutes until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
Step 10: Let the casserole rest for five minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Personalizing French’s green bean casserole is easy and adds an exciting twist to this classic dish. You can substitute fresh or frozen green beans for canned ones to achieve a firmer texture and fresher flavor. For extra creaminess, mix in a spoonful of sour cream or shredded cheese before baking. To give it a richer taste, sauté some chopped onions or mushrooms and add them to the mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat mushroom soup and milk without compromising the comforting flavor. Adding a sprinkle of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top also gives a delicious extra crunch.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of French’s green bean casserole provides approximately 210 calories. It contains about 12g of fat, 18g of carbohydrates, and 4g of protein per portion. The dish offers a good balance of texture and taste while being light enough to complement heavier main courses. Choosing reduced-sodium soup or baked onions can help make the dish healthier while keeping its signature creamy consistency and rich taste intact.
Serving Suggestions
French’s green bean casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. It complements roasted turkey, baked chicken, glazed ham, or grilled steak wonderfully. During holidays, it sits perfectly alongside mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. You can also serve it with a simple garden salad or buttered rolls for a wholesome everyday dinner. For presentation, garnish the casserole with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. Leftovers can be reheated easily in the oven, maintaining their crispy topping and creamy interior.
Conclusion
French’s green bean casserole remains one of the most beloved comfort dishes for family gatherings and celebrations. Its rich flavor, creamy sauce, and crispy onion topping make it the ultimate side dish that brings warmth and joy to every table. Whether served during the holidays or as a weekday treat, it delivers that familiar homemade taste everyone craves. Preparing it takes minimal effort, yet the result feels like something made with love and tradition. Once you master it, this casserole will likely become a permanent part of your family’s favorite recipes.
