Rediscovering a Classic
My Favorite is Classic Green Bean Bake and I remember the first time I made Classic Green Bean Bake. It was a chilly November day, and I had just moved into my new home. The kitchen was filled with the aroma of roasted vegetables and warm spices, but something was missing. That’s when I stumbled upon a recipe that had been a staple in American kitchens for decades: Classic Green Bean Bake. Originally created by Dorcas Reilly in 1955, this dish seemed like the perfect way to bring a bit of comfort to my new home.
The Magic of Simple Ingredients
The beauty of Classic Green Bean Bake lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients—condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and crispy fried onions—the dish comes together quickly and effortlessly. I was amazed by how such basic ingredients could create something so delicious. As I mixed the creamy soup with the green beans, I felt a sense of nostalgia and warmth, knowing that this was a recipe that had stood the test of time.
A Family Favorite
Baking the green bean casserole was like magic. As it cooked, the kitchen filled with the tantalizing smell of crispy onions and bubbling sauce. When I finally pulled it out of the oven, the top was perfectly golden brown, and the sauce underneath was creamy and smooth. My family loved it instantly. It became a go-to side dish for our dinners, holidays, and any time we wanted something comforting and satisfying.
Adding a Personal Touch
While the Classic Green Bean Bake is perfect on its own, I like to add a personal touch. Sometimes, I stir in a bit of shredded cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor, or toss in some sliced mushrooms for added texture. Each time I make it, I think of Dorcas Reilly and her genius in creating such a beloved recipe. It’s amazing how a simple dish can create lasting memories and bring people together, just as it did for me and my family.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Classic Green Bean Bake
- For an extra layer of flavor and creaminess, mix in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the green bean mixture before baking.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or ham, making it an ideal side for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.
- Enhance the texture by adding sliced mushrooms or water chestnuts to the green bean mixture. These add a nice crunch and additional flavor.
- For an even crispier topping, consider using homemade French fried onions or bake the casserole in a wider dish to increase the surface area for crispy onions.
- Substitute almond milk for the whole milk if you need a dairy-free version, and use cream of chicken soup in place of the cream of mushroom soup.
Classic Green Bean Bake
4
servings10
minutes30
minutes231
kcal40
minutesThis Classic Green Bean Bake is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any day of the week! Originally crafted by Campbell Test Kitchen Manager Dorcas Reilly in 1955, this dish has stood the test of time with its creamy, smooth sauce and unbeatable flavor. With just six ingredients and a quick 10-minute prep, this family favorite is sure to please everyone at the table. Try it today and see why it’s been a beloved side dish for over 60 years!
Ingredients
condensed cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup whole milk
1 tsp soy sauce
black pepper pinch of
4 cups cooked and chopped green beans (fresh or frozen)
1 1/3 cups crispy fried onions
Directions
- Mixing Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, soy sauce, and a pinch of ground black pepper. Stir until well blended.
- Adding Green Beans – Fold in the cooked and chopped green beans into the soup mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Finishing Bake – Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the onions are golden brown.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- casserole dish
- measuring cups and spoons
- mixing bowls
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 231kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Potassium: 200mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 10IU
- Vitamin C: 15mg
- Calcium: 6mg
- Iron: 8mg
FAQ-Classic Green Bean Bake
Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh green beans. Make sure to cook them until tender before chopping and adding to the mixture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before baking.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this green bean bake?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole. After baking, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake until heated through.
