Oh my goodness, if there’s one dish that screams holiday cheer in my family, it’s my beloved Christmas Green Bean Casserole! Seriously, this casserole is like a warm hug on your plate, with its creamy mushroom sauce and a delightful crispy onion topping that just makes your taste buds dance. I remember growing up, my mom would whip this up every Christmas and the smell would fill the house, making it feel so cozy and festive. We’d all gather around the table, and the moment someone would scoop out a serving, it was like magic—everyone wanted seconds! Trust me, this dish is not just a side; it’s a tradition that brings us together, and it’s simply not Christmas without it. You’ll want to make some memories with this one, too!
Ingredients for Christmas Green Bean Casserole
Gathering the ingredients for this Christmas Green Bean Casserole is a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need to create this festive delight:
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cleaned
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup for that rich, creamy base
- 1 cup milk to help blend everything together beautifully
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce for a touch of savory goodness
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper to add a hint of spice
- 1 1/2 cups French fried onions, because who can resist that crispy topping?
Using fresh green beans really elevates the flavor, so I highly recommend it! This combination of ingredients makes for a cozy, classic dish that will have everyone coming back for more.
How to Prepare Christmas Green Bean Casserole
Getting this Christmas Green Bean Casserole ready is super simple and oh-so-satisfying! Let’s dive into the steps:
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for getting that perfect bubbly goodness later!
- Next, blanch your fresh green beans in a large pot of boiling water for about 5 minutes. You want them just tender but still vibrant green. Once done, drain them and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Whisk it together until it’s nice and smooth; this creamy mixture is going to be the star of the show!
- Now, add those blanched green beans into the bowl and gently stir to coat them well with the sauce. You want every bean to be covered in that deliciousness.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
- After that, take it out and stir in 1 cup of French fried onions—oh, the crunch! Then pop it back in the oven for another 10 minutes.
- Finally, sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until golden brown and irresistible.
And there you have it! Just a little patience and you’ll have a warm, comforting casserole that’s ready to steal the show at your holiday table!
Nutritional Information for Christmas Green Bean Casserole
Now, let’s talk about the nutrition of this festive delight! Keep in mind these values are estimates, but here’s a breakdown per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 5mg
This casserole packs in a decent amount of fiber and protein, making it a satisfying side dish to complement your holiday feast! Enjoy every delicious bite without too much guilt—after all, it’s the holidays!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a classic holiday dish that everyone looks forward to!
- Quick preparation means you can whip it up in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy with family.
- Simple ingredients come together to create that creamy, savory goodness we all crave at Christmas.
- This casserole is a total crowd-pleaser—seriously, no one can resist that crispy onion topping!
- It’s versatile enough to be made ahead of time, so you can stress less and enjoy more!
Tips for Success with Christmas Green Bean Casserole
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Christmas Green Bean Casserole turns out absolutely perfect!
- Fresh is best: Always opt for fresh green beans over canned ones. They add a vibrant color and crunch that frozen or canned beans just can’t match.
- Don’t skip the blanching: Blanching the green beans for just 5 minutes before mixing helps them retain their bright color and crisp texture. Trust me, it’s worth it!
- Mix it up: If you want to add more flavor, try mixing in some sautéed garlic or shallots with the sauce. It adds a lovely depth!
- Watch the oven: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes, especially in the last few minutes, to avoid burnt edges.
- Make-ahead magic: You can prepare everything a day in advance—just pop it in the fridge and bake it before serving. This saves time and stress on the big day!
With these tips, you’ll create a casserole that’s not only delicious but also a joy to serve at your holiday gathering!
Variations on Christmas Green Bean Casserole
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up this classic Christmas Green Bean Casserole! Here are some ideas to get your creativity flowing:
- Cheesy Delight: Add a cup of shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese to the creamy mixture for a rich, cheesy twist. Who doesn’t love a little extra gooeyness?
- Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile. It adds a lovely aromatic touch that’s perfect for the holidays!
- Veggie Varieties: Swap out the green beans for other veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, or even sautéed mushrooms for a different texture and taste. Each option brings its own charm!
- Crunchy Toppings: Experiment with toppings! Instead of French fried onions, try crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter for a delightful crunch.
- Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of heat, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce or even some diced jalapeños for a zesty kick!
These variations keep the spirit of the dish alive while adding your personal touch. Go ahead, get creative, and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Christmas Green Bean Casserole
Storing your leftover Christmas Green Bean Casserole is super easy, and it’s a great way to enjoy those delicious flavors again! Just let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, so you can savor the festive goodness even after the holiday meal!
When it’s time to reheat, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the casserole back into a baking dish if it’s not already in one, and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If you want to restore that crispy topping, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. Wow, your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll be ready to enjoy this comforting dish once again!
Serving Suggestions for Christmas Green Bean Casserole
When it comes to serving your Christmas Green Bean Casserole, the options are endless and oh-so-delicious! This casserole pairs wonderfully with a range of main courses, making it a perfect addition to your holiday spread. I love serving it alongside a juicy roasted turkey or a succulent glazed ham—those flavors together are just heavenly!
If you’re looking to add some freshness to your meal, a crisp salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the creamy casserole beautifully. And don’t forget about the bread! A warm, buttery dinner roll or some crusty artisan bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce. Trust me, with these pairings, your holiday table will shine bright and leave everyone feeling cozy and satisfied!
FAQ About Christmas Green Bean Casserole
Here are some common questions I get about making Christmas Green Bean Casserole—let’s clear up any doubts!
Can I use frozen green beans? Absolutely! While I prefer fresh for the best texture, frozen green beans are a convenient alternative. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven before serving for that fresh-baked taste.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup? No worries! You can make a quick homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, heavy cream, and a bit of flour to thicken it up.
How do I make it gluten-free? To make a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check that your fried onions are also gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to mix in some sautéed mushrooms or even carrots for a colorful twist. Get creative!
Print
Christmas Green Bean Casserole: 7 Comforting Holiday Memories
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic holiday dish made with green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups French fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain.
- In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper.
- Add the green beans to the mixture and stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and stir in 1 cup of French fried onions.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Top with remaining fried onions and bake for 5 more minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Use fresh green beans for best flavor.
- For a vegetarian option, ensure the soup is meat-free.
- Can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Christmas Green Bean Casserole