Greetings, Readers!
As the leaves turn vibrant shades of gold and crimson, and the crisp autumn air fills our lungs, we know that Thanksgiving is just around the corner. This beloved holiday brings families and friends together around the table, sharing laughter, stories, and of course, a feast of delicious food. Among all the delectable dishes, green bean casserole has become a Thanksgiving staple, its creamy, savory goodness a welcome addition to any holiday spread.
In this ultimate guide to green bean casserole, we’ll delve into the history, ingredients, variations, and tips for making this classic side dish that will have your guests asking for seconds and thirds. Whether you’re a seasoned Thanksgiving cook or a novice looking to impress, this guide has everything you need to create a green bean casserole that will steal the show.
The Origins of Green Bean Casserole
The origins of green bean casserole are a bit murky, but it’s widely believed to have been created in the 1950s by the Campbell Soup Company as a way to promote their canned cream of mushroom soup. The recipe quickly became a hit with home cooks, and it has remained a Thanksgiving staple ever since.
Ingredients and Variations
At its core, green bean casserole is a simple dish made with just a few ingredients:
- Green beans: Fresh or frozen green beans can be used, but fresh beans will give the casserole a brighter, more vibrant color.
- Cream of mushroom soup: This is the base of the casserole, providing a creamy, savory flavor.
- Milk: Milk thins out the soup and makes the casserole more moist.
- Fried onions: These add a crispy, crunchy texture to the casserole.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
While these are the basic ingredients, there are many variations on the classic green bean casserole recipe. Some popular additions include:
- Shredded cheese: Cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère cheese can be added for a cheesy twist.
- Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy depth to the casserole.
- Roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers add a touch of sweetness and color.
Tips for Making the Perfect Green Bean Casserole
To ensure your green bean casserole turns out perfect, follow these tips:
- Use fresh or frozen green beans, not canned. Canned green beans are mushy and will not hold their shape in the casserole.
- Don’t overcook the green beans. They should be tender but still have a little bit of a bite to them.
- Use a good quality cream of mushroom soup. The soup is the base of the casserole, so it’s important to use a brand that you like.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients. There are many variations on the classic green bean casserole recipe, so feel free to add your own favorite ingredients.
- Make the casserole ahead of time. Green bean casserole can be made up to 2 days ahead of time and reheated before serving.
Table of Ingredients and Nutritional Information
The following table provides a detailed breakdown of the ingredients and nutritional information for a traditional green bean casserole:
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Green beans | 1 (16-ounce) package | 120 |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 (10.75-ounce) can | 170 |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | 40 |
| Fried onions | 1 (2.8-ounce) can | 110 |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | 10 |
| Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | 5 |
Total: 455 calories
Conclusion
Green bean casserole is a Thanksgiving classic that is sure to please everyone at the table. With its creamy, savory flavor and crispy, crunchy topping, it’s a dish that will have you reaching for seconds and thirds. Whether you’re a seasoned Thanksgiving cook or a novice looking to impress, we hope this ultimate guide to green bean casserole has given you the inspiration and confidence to create a dish that will be the star of your holiday feast.
For more Thanksgiving side dish inspiration, be sure to check out our other articles on mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
FAQ about Thanksgiving Sides Green Bean Casserole
How do I make a creamy green bean casserole?
Make a roux by melting butter and whisking in flour, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste. In a casserole dish, combine cooked green beans, the cream sauce, and fried onions. Bake until bubbly and hot.
What kind of green beans should I use?
Fresh or frozen green beans will work fine. If using fresh, trim the ends.
Can I use canned green beans?
Yes, you can use canned green beans, but be sure to drain and rinse them first.
What other vegetables can I add to my casserole?
You can add other vegetables to your casserole, such as corn, peas, or carrots.
How do I make my casserole crispy?
To make your casserole crispy, sprinkle crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Can I make my casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can make your casserole ahead of time and reheat it before serving. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350 degrees F for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
What can substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup or want to avoid using canned soup, you can make your own cream sauce. Melt some butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in some all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in some milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
How to make green bean casserole without cream of mushroom soup?
You can make a creamy sauce using a roux, which is a mixture of equal parts butter and flour. Melt the butter in a saucepan, then whisk in the flour. Cook for 1 minute, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
What can I substitute for fried onions?
If you don’t have fried onions, you can use chopped yellow onions and sauté them in butter until softened.
What other holiday dishes can I serve with green bean casserole?
Green bean casserole is a classic Thanksgiving side dish. It pairs well with roast turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.