Are you ready to elevate your Thanksgiving feast or simply enjoy a comforting classic? Then look no further! This recipe recreates the iconic French's Original Green Bean Casserole, a beloved side dish that brings families together year after year. Forget complicated recipes; this is a simple, delicious, and surprisingly easy dish perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, brimming with the rich, savory flavor that defines this holiday staple. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade comfort food at its best!
Ingredients:
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 (1 ounce) can French's fried onions, divided
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can green beans, drained
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly and the topping gets perfectly golden brown.
Prepare the Casserole:
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In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth and creamy. This simple sauce is the heart of the casserole, so take your time to ensure everything is well incorporated.
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Gently stir in the drained green beans. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain the shape of the beans.
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Pour the green bean mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart baking dish. Using a baking dish of the appropriate size helps ensure the casserole cooks evenly and achieves the desired texture.
Bake to Perfection:
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Sprinkle about half of the French's fried onions evenly over the top of the green bean mixture. This creates a crunchy base for the remaining onions.
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Bake for 25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
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Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining fried onions over the top.
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Return to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on the casserole during this final stage to avoid burning the onions.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to cool slightly, making it easier to serve. Serve warm as a delightful side dish alongside your favorite Thanksgiving main course.
Cooking Tips for the Best Green Bean Casserole:
- For a richer flavor, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance the overall taste.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the casserole for the last few minutes instead of baking. Watch carefully to prevent burning!
- Feel free to add other seasonings such as onion powder, paprika, or thyme to personalize the dish.
- For a vegetarian option, ensure your cream of mushroom soup is vegetarian-friendly.
Variations:
- Mushroom Medley: Sauté sliced mushrooms and add them to the casserole for extra earthy flavor.
- Crispy Bacon: Crumble cooked bacon and mix it into the casserole for a smoky, savory twist.
- Roasted Green Beans: Roast the green beans before adding them to the casserole for a more intense flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This classic French's Original Green Bean Casserole recipe is a delicious and easy-to-follow guide for creating a Thanksgiving favorite. It’s a fantastic addition to any holiday spread or a comforting weeknight meal. Enjoy!