Introduction
Green bean casserole is one of those classic dishes that almost everyone loves. It has been a staple on holiday tables for decades and is known for its creamy texture and crispy fried onion topping.
But what if you could make this comforting dish without having to stand over a hot oven or use extra pots and pans? That is exactly what makes this crockpot green bean casserole so special.
Using a slow cooker not only frees up valuable oven space during busy holiday dinners but also allows the flavors to blend beautifully over a few hours. The green beans cook until perfectly tender, soaking in the rich mushroom sauce, and the crispy onions on top add just the right amount of crunch at the very end.
Whether you are planning a big family feast or just want an easy side dish for any meal, this recipe is a game changer. It is simple to prepare, requires minimal effort, and gives you a warm, delicious dish that tastes like it took hours to make.
If you have never tried making green bean casserole in a crockpot, now is the perfect time to start. This method is foolproof, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
Keep reading to find out exactly what you need and how to make this crowd-pleaser step by step.
Ingredients Needed
For this crockpot green bean casserole recipe, you will need just a few simple ingredients that you can find in almost any grocery store.
Using fresh or frozen green beans works well, so you can choose what fits your schedule and preference.
The creamy base is made with classic cream of mushroom soup and milk, which keeps the casserole rich but not too heavy.
A splash of soy sauce adds a subtle depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Garlic powder and black pepper bring a nice gentle seasoning without overpowering the dish.
The finishing touch is the crispy French fried onions that provide a wonderful texture contrast.
To help you plan your meal and keep track of calories, here is a clear table with the ingredients and their approximate calorie counts per serving.
This is especially helpful if you are watching your diet or just curious about what you are eating.
This recipe makes about six servings, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) per serving |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh or frozen green beans | 1 pound (about 4 cups) | 40 |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 ounces) | 90 |
| Milk | Half cup | 60 |
| Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon | 10 |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | 5 |
| Black pepper | Half teaspoon | 2 |
| French fried onions | 1 and a half cups | 140 |
These ingredients come together in the crockpot to create a comforting and delicious side dish that everyone will enjoy.
The calorie count per serving is reasonable, considering the richness and flavor you get.
Read More: Creamy Rice and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making this crockpot green bean casserole is incredibly easy and perfect for anyone who wants a delicious homemade dish without much fuss.
Start by preparing your green beans. If you are using fresh beans, give them a good wash and trim the ends to remove any tough bits.
If you prefer frozen beans, just thaw them out before cooking.
Next, prepare the creamy sauce that will bring everything together.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Whisk everything together until smooth and well blended.
This mixture is what makes the casserole creamy and flavorful without needing extra butter or heavy cream.
Now it is time to assemble the casserole.
Place the green beans at the bottom of your crockpot and pour the creamy sauce over them.
Use a spoon or spatula to gently stir and coat the beans evenly with the sauce.
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low.
Let it cook for three to four hours.
During this time, the green beans will become tender but still hold their shape, while the flavors will meld beautifully.
About twenty minutes before you plan to serve the casserole, sprinkle the French fried onions evenly on top.
Cover the crockpot again and let it cook for the last bit of time.
This step softens the onions just enough while keeping them crispy on the outside.
Finally, once the cooking time is complete, give the casserole a gentle stir to mix in some of the onions or leave them on top as a crunchy garnish.
Serve it warm and enjoy a comforting, classic side dish made simple and delicious.
Read More: Easy and Light Crockpot Summer Meals
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the best things about this crockpot green bean casserole is how easy it is to customize to your taste and dietary needs.
If you love cheese, you can stir in half a cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella before cooking.
This adds a creamy cheesy layer that melts perfectly with the sauce.
For mushroom lovers, try adding fresh sliced mushrooms that have been sautéed beforehand.
This gives extra texture and flavor to every bite.
If you need a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and fried onions in your grocery store or online.
That way, everyone at your table can enjoy it safely.
If you prefer a bit of spice, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños gives the casserole a nice subtle kick.
For different flavor profiles, you can swap out the soy sauce for Worcestershire sauce or tamari.
These options give a unique twist while maintaining the savory balance.
Feel free to get creative.
The slow cooker method is forgiving and perfect for experimenting.
Whether you want a richer, cheesier dish or a lighter and fresher take, this recipe is a great starting point.
Nutritional Information
This crockpot green bean casserole is not only tasty but also offers a decent nutritional profile for a creamy comfort food.
On average, one serving contains about 347 calories, with 5 grams of protein, 22 grams of carbohydrates, and 26 grams of fat.
The fat content mostly comes from the cream of mushroom soup and the fried onions, so if you want to reduce calories, you can try using a lighter soup or a smaller amount of fried onions.
The casserole provides about 4 grams of fiber per serving, which helps with digestion and satiety.
Sodium content is around 600 milligrams per serving, mainly from the soy sauce and soup, so keep that in mind if you are watching your salt intake.
Overall, this casserole strikes a good balance between indulgence and nutrition, making it a satisfying side dish for special occasions or everyday meals.
Serving Suggestions
This crockpot green bean casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes.
It is a classic side for Thanksgiving turkey or Christmas ham, but it also works well alongside roasted chicken or baked pork chops.
For a full holiday plate, serve it with mashed potatoes and dinner rolls to round out the meal.
To add freshness and color, a crisp garden salad or steamed vegetables make a great contrast to the creamy casserole.
If you want to dress it up, sprinkle a little fresh parsley or thyme on top before serving.
The crispy fried onions on top are a highlight, so consider offering extra onions on the side for those who love more crunch.
This casserole also reheats well, so leftovers make an easy addition to lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Serve warm and enjoy the comforting, nostalgic flavors that everyone will ask for again and again.
Read More: Homemade Chicken Biscuit Casserole
Conclusion
If you are looking for a hassle-free way to make a delicious green bean casserole, this crockpot recipe is perfect.
It saves time and effort while delivering the rich, creamy, and crunchy flavors that make this dish a family favorite.
Whether for holiday celebrations or simple weeknight dinners, cooking it in the slow cooker frees you up to focus on other parts of your meal.
Plus, it is easy to customize and can fit different dietary needs.
The best part is that this recipe is almost foolproof, so even beginners can feel confident making it.
Next time you want a comforting side dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare, try this crockpot green bean casserole.
It is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.