Introduction
Green bean casserole is a timeless dish that has earned its place on many dining tables, especially during the holidays. This comforting casserole combines tender green beans with creamy mushroom sauce and a crunchy fried onion topping that makes it irresistibly delicious. While many traditional recipes call for fresh or frozen green beans, using canned beans offers a quick and convenient way to enjoy this classic dish without sacrificing any flavor or texture.
Canned green beans are already cooked, which means you spend less time prepping and more time enjoying your meal with family and friends. This recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to whip up a comforting side dish with minimal fuss but maximum taste. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook looking for a shortcut, this green bean casserole made with canned beans is a reliable and satisfying option.
It also makes a great last-minute dish when unexpected guests arrive or when you want something warm and wholesome with very little effort. In this article, you will find everything you need to create this delicious casserole from scratch, along with tips to customize the recipe and ideas to make it your own.
Ingredients Needed
To make this easy and delicious green bean casserole with canned beans, you will need just a few simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. The star of the dish is canned green beans, which bring a tender texture and fresh flavor without the extra preparation.
Cream of mushroom soup adds the creamy base that ties all the flavors together, while milk helps achieve the perfect consistency. A handful of crispy fried onions on top creates that classic crunch that everyone loves. Seasonings like salt and pepper are kept simple so the natural flavors shine through.
If you want to add some extra richness, shredded cheddar cheese is a fantastic option that melts beautifully over the casserole during the final baking step. Below is a handy ingredient table with estimated calorie counts to help you keep track if you are watching your intake:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approximate Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Canned green beans | 2 cans (14.5 oz each) | 70 calories |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | 120 calories |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | 50 calories |
| Fried onions (store-bought) | 1 cup | 150 calories |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | 0 calories |
| Salt | To taste | 0 calories |
| Optional shredded cheddar cheese | 1/2 cup | 220 calories |
This recipe typically serves about six people, making it a perfect side for a family dinner or holiday feast. The total calories per serving hover around 100 to 150 calories without cheese and can be slightly higher if you add cheese on top.
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making this green bean casserole is straightforward and quick, thanks to the convenience of canned beans. First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
While the oven is warming up, drain the canned green beans thoroughly to remove excess liquid. You want to avoid a soggy casserole, so take a moment to drain well and pat dry if needed. Transfer the beans into a mixing bowl where you will combine them with the creamy sauce.
In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with half a cup of milk until the mixture is smooth and slightly runny. This blend is what makes the casserole so creamy and comforting. Pour the soup and milk mixture over the green beans, then season with salt and a bit of black pepper to taste.
Stir gently until all the beans are coated with the sauce. Once combined, pour the mixture into a baking dish roughly one and a half quarts in size, spreading it out evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25 minutes.
This step warms the casserole through and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. After 25 minutes, take the casserole out and sprinkle the crunchy fried onions evenly on top. If you are using cheese, add it now as well.
Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes. During this time, the onions will turn golden brown and crispy, while the cheese melts perfectly if included. Once done, remove the casserole and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
This rest time helps the dish set a little so it is easier to serve. The result is a creamy, flavorful casserole with tender beans and a satisfying crunchy topping that everyone will love.
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Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the great things about green bean casserole is how easy it is to make your own by adding different ingredients or adjusting the flavors. If you want a cheesier casserole, try mixing shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or even parmesan cheese into the beans and sauce before baking.
You can also experiment with different creamy soups such as cream of chicken or cream of celery to change the flavor profile. Adding sautéed mushrooms or cooked bacon bits to the casserole gives it an extra depth of flavor and texture that many people enjoy.
For those who follow a vegan or dairy-free diet, there are excellent plant-based cream of mushroom soups available, and you can use vegan fried onions to keep the dish animal-product free.
Spices and herbs also offer an easy way to customize your casserole. A pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can add warmth and complexity.
Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley sprinkled on top just before serving can brighten the dish and add a fresh note. If you like a crunchier casserole overall, consider adding extra fried onions both inside the casserole and on top before baking.
No matter your preference, this recipe is very forgiving and versatile, making it simple to adjust based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.
Nutritional Information
Green bean casserole is often thought of as a rich side dish, but this version using canned beans and simple ingredients can be quite reasonable in calories and nutrients. Each serving provides a moderate amount of calories, generally between 100 and 150 without cheese, making it suitable for those watching their calorie intake.
The beans themselves contribute dietary fiber and important vitamins like vitamin A and vitamin C, along with some protein. The cream of mushroom soup provides richness and fat, so keep an eye on sodium levels if you are using canned soups that can sometimes be high in salt.
Choosing low sodium or reduced fat soup versions can help if you want to make the dish lighter. The fried onions add texture but can also contribute additional calories and fat, so you can adjust the amount or swap for homemade baked onions if you want a healthier alternative.
Adding cheese increases calories and fat but also provides protein and calcium. Overall, this casserole balances flavor and nutrition well, especially when served alongside lean proteins and vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Green bean casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes and sides, making it a versatile addition to any meal. It is a traditional favorite alongside roast turkey or chicken, especially during holiday feasts such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.
The creamy texture and savory flavor complement mashed potatoes and stuffing beautifully. For a colorful plate, serve it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to add brightness and crunch.
Cranberry sauce also makes a delicious tangy contrast to the richness of the casserole. You can serve it with dinner rolls or crusty bread to help soak up the sauce and complete the meal.
This casserole also works well as a comforting weeknight side dish or potluck contribution. It reheats nicely and can be made ahead of time to save time on busy days.
No matter the occasion, this green bean casserole with canned beans will add warmth and flavor to your table.
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Conclusion
Using canned beans to make green bean casserole is a wonderful way to enjoy this classic dish quickly and easily without losing any of its comforting qualities. The creamy mushroom sauce combined with tender beans and crispy fried onions creates a satisfying side dish that fits perfectly into holiday meals or casual dinners.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, anyone can make this casserole and customize it to their own taste. Whether you add cheese, bacon, or extra spices, the recipe is flexible and forgiving.
This dish brings together convenience and tradition, making it a must-have recipe to keep in your kitchen repertoire. Next time you want a warm, tasty side that comes together in a snap, try this green bean casserole with canned beans and enjoy all the classic flavors with less effort.