The Best Green Bean Casserole

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Back in the 1950s, the kitchens of the Campbell Soup Company were brewing up more than just soup. A remarkable creation was born at the hands of Dorcas Reilly, an innovative recipe developer. The task was to craft a versatile dish using only a handful of ingredients readily found in American kitchens.

The result? The iconic green bean casserole. Originally, it was an easy, quick, and affordable meal idea designed specifically to incorporate Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup. This simple but inventive blend of green beans, creamy soup, and crispy fried onions quickly found its way into households across America.

It didn’t take long for the dish to make its mark. As post-World War II America embraced the convenience of packaged foods, this casserole ticked all the right boxes. It was easy to prepare, required minimal ingredients, and yet, it packed a flavorful punch.

Moving beyond its origins, the green bean casserole has become a cultural staple, reflecting much more than a convenient side dish. It’s a culinary symbol revered during holidays and everyday meals alike. Over time, new generations have incorporated their own twists, adding everything from cheese to bacon, allowing the casserole to evolve while staying true to its roots.

In exploring the history of green bean casserole, one can’t help but appreciate its transformation from a marketing invention into a beloved mainstay of American cuisine. It’s a testament to how food innovation, simplicity, and a bit of marketing genius can shape dining traditions for decades.

Green Bean Casserole: A Thanksgiving Staple

Thanksgiving in America means a feast with dishes passed down through generations, and green bean casserole sits right there among the classics. While turkey takes the spotlight, this casserole earns its rightful place on the table every year, celebrating its flavorful simplicity.

The tradition of serving green bean casserole during Thanksgiving has roots tied to its comforting appeal and the ease of its preparation. In households bustling with holiday activity, having a reliable dish that’s both tasty and efficient is a blessing. With its layers of savory green beans, creamy sauce, and crispy onions, it captures the essence of home-cooked comfort.

What makes it particularly special is how each family has its own version of the recipe. Some stick to the classic while others experiment with adding cheddar cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or a touch of garlic to amp up the flavor. These variations bring a personal touch to the dish, making it unique to each holiday gathering.

Apart from personal twists, some regions in the U.S. have developed their own takes over time, adding ingredients like bacon or switching out the standard cream of mushroom soup for alternatives that cater to dietary preferences. Whether it’s a small tweak or a bold overhaul, the heart of this dish remains the same.

There’s something about a dish that can consistently evoke nostalgia while adapting to new tastes. Green bean casserole isn’t just a side dish; it’s a Thanksgiving tradition that invites stories, offers comfort, and brings people together around the table.

Flavor Companions: Perfect Pairings with Green Bean Casserole

Pairing food well is like a dance, where flavors come together, creating something unforgettable. When it comes to green bean casserole, knowing what complements its creamy, umami-rich profile can elevate your whole meal.

For main dishes, you can’t go wrong with the classics. Roast turkey is an obvious partner, but baked glazed ham or even a juicy roast chicken can work wonders alongside this casserole. The savory depth of the casserole contrasts beautifully with the light, tender kick of these roasts.

Thinking about beverages, a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay can be perfect. These wines have the right acidity to cut through the richness of the dish, balancing flavors beautifully. Beer enthusiasts might consider a pale ale to keep things refreshing and light.

In terms of side dishes, think of options that offer a balance. Mashed potatoes with a bit of garlic butter can match the flavor profile without overwhelming it. If you’re in the mood for something fresh, a simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette dressing counters the casserole’s creamy textures well.

For those keen to add a dash of creativity, topping the casserole with some fried bacon bits or mixing in toasted almonds can introduce new textures and flavors, making the dish more intriguing. This way, each bite is a delightful surprise.

Ultimately, green bean casserole is one of those versatile companions in a meal that makes room for personalization while maintaining a familiar comfort—a classic yet adaptable staple that can be paired with a variety of dishes to create a harmonious dining experience.

Ingredients

• 5 to 6 cups of steamed green beans trimmed and cut
• 2 cans of cream of mushroom soup
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• pepper to taste
• 3 to 4 strips of bacon cooked and crumbled
• 9 oz crispy fried onions divided
• 2 to 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees
2. Pour cans of mushroom soup into small pot
3. Add milk and pepper to taste to pot and combine with a whisk or fork
4. Heat up in pot until hot, do no boil
5. Add cooked green beans to 9×13 glass baking dish
6. Pour Cream of mushroom soup/milk mix into green beans and combine evenly
7. Add crumbled bacon to green beans and mix around evenly
8. Add 6 oz of crispy fried onions to green beans and mix around
9. Bake in oven uncovered for 30 minutes
10. Remove from oven
11. With the remaining 3 oz of crispy fried onion, form a layer on top of the green beans
12. Evenly spread cheddar cheese over top of green beans
13. Bake another 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and slightly browned

Let cool for 5 minutes and enjoy!