The Classic Green Bean Casserole is a beloved dish, especially during Thanksgiving. This vegetarian staple combines fresh green beans with creamy mushroom sauce and crispy fried onions, creating a comforting and delicious side that everyone will love.
Ingredients
To make this hearty casserole, you'll need:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups mushroom soup (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 small canister of crispy fried onions
Steps to Prepare the Green Beans
- Trim the Beans: Start by washing the green beans thoroughly. Trim off the ends and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
- Blanch the Beans: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Immediately transfer the beans to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
Making the Mushroom Sauce
- Homemade Version:
- In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for another minute.
- Gradually add 1 cup of vegetable broth and 1 cup of milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Season with salt, pepper, and soy sauce (if using).
- Store-Bought Version:
- Simply open a can of mushroom soup and mix it with 1 cup of milk and soy sauce (if using) in a bowl.
Assembly Process
- Layer the Beans and Sauce: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched green beans and mushroom sauce. Stir well until the beans are well coated with the sauce.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with Onions: Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
Baking Instructions
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Perfect Topping: If the onions start to brown too quickly, cover the dish with aluminum foil and continue baking.
Serving Suggestions
The Classic Green Bean Casserole pairs wonderfully with other Thanksgiving favorites like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and roasted vegetables. It's also fantastic alongside a hearty main course like roasted turkey or vegetarian loaf.
Conclusion
This easy-to-follow recipe for Classic Green Bean Casserole is sure to become a favorite at your Thanksgiving table. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures with friends and family. Happy cooking and Happy Thanksgiving!
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