Prepare to revolutionize your side dish game with a green bean casserole that will make your taste buds dance and your family beg for seconds! Forget everything you know about boring, traditional casseroles - this recipe is about to blow your mind with its perfect blend of crispy, creamy, and absolutely irresistible flavors. Whether you're looking to impress at a holiday gathering or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this modern take on a classic comfort food will have everyone asking, "Who taught you how to cook?"
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup French fried onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and crisp-tender. Immediately drain and transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a large skillet, sauté the sliced mushrooms and diced onions over medium heat with a tablespoon of olive oil until they are soft and golden, about 5-6 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Whisk until smooth and well incorporated.
- Add the blanched green beans and sautéed mushrooms and onions to the soup mixture. Gently fold until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Transfer the green bean mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and immediately top with French fried onions. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to crisp the onions.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and cool slightly.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish that puts a modern twist on the classic green bean casserole.
Tips
- Fresh is Best: Always use fresh green beans when possible. They provide a crisp texture and brighter flavor compared to frozen alternatives.
- Blanching Technique: Don't skip the ice bath after blanching! This stops the cooking process and helps maintain the beans' vibrant green color and crisp texture.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
- Crispy Onion Hack: Add the French fried onions in the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent burning while ensuring maximum crispiness.
- Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add the fried onions just before the final bake.
- Season Carefully: Taste and adjust salt and pepper, as the cream of mushroom soup and cheese already contain sodium.
- Let It Rest: The 5-10 minute resting time is crucial for the sauce to set and make serving easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
