This Crockpot Green Bean Casserole brings together fresh green beans in a creamy, cheesy sauce, topped with crispy French fried onions for an irresistible texture. Perfect for a holiday dinner or as a comforting side dish to accompany any meal, it’s rich, flavorful, and a total crowd-pleaser.
The ease of making this dish in the crockpot means you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you focus on other parts of your meal. With its creamy texture and crispy topping, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering or weeknight dinner.
Full Recipe:
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2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup milk
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 1/2 cups French fried onions
Directions:
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Grease the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.
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Place the trimmed green beans in the crockpot.
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In a medium bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper.
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Pour the soup mixture over the green beans and stir to combine.
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Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the beans are tender and the casserole is heated through.
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After 4 hours, stir in 1 cup of French fried onions, cover, and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
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Garnish with the remaining French fried onions and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 200 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
History and Origin
Green bean casserole first came into popular use in the mid-20th century, thanks to the creativity of Dorcas Reilly, who worked for the Campbell Soup Company. In 1955, she invented the dish as part of a promotional campaign to show how versatile Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup could be. Initially named “Green Bean Bake,” the dish quickly became a staple in American kitchens, especially around the holiday season. Reilly’s creation was simple: green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and fried onions, all combined in one pan.
While the recipe’s popularity skyrocketed in the 1950s and 1960s, it still holds a special place at Thanksgiving and Christmas tables today. Over time, it has seen numerous variations, but the basic concept remains largely unchanged: tender green beans combined with creamy soup and topped with crispy onions for crunch.
This casserole is particularly associated with American comfort food and holiday dining, where it’s often found nestled beside mashed potatoes, turkey, and cranberry sauce. In many households, it’s considered a tradition to serve this dish year after year, making it a nostalgic symbol of shared family moments.
Variations and Adaptations
Though the classic version of green bean casserole relies on canned cream of mushroom soup and store-bought fried onions, there are countless ways to modify and elevate this dish based on personal preferences or regional differences.
For a fresher, more homemade approach, some cooks swap out the canned soup for a from-scratch mushroom sauce made with sautéed fresh mushrooms, butter, garlic, and cream. This version offers a more robust and savory flavor and can be tailored to include herbs like thyme or rosemary. The addition of fresh mushrooms can also add extra texture and depth to the casserole.
Another common variation is to play around with the protein element. Some versions of green bean casserole incorporate bacon or sausage, adding a smoky flavor and a bit of savory richness to the dish. For a vegetarian version, you can simply omit the meat, making it suitable for both vegetarians and those observing specific dietary preferences.
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider using a lighter version of cream of mushroom soup or a dairy-free substitute for the sauce. You can also replace the fried onions with a crunchy topping made from crushed nuts, such as almonds or pecans, which can provide a healthier yet equally delicious alternative.
Finally, for a more flavorful spin, try adding cheese into the casserole, either as a topping or mixed into the creamy sauce. Sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan can all offer a new twist on this classic dish, enhancing its richness and complexity.
Nutritional Information
When it comes to nutritional value, Crockpot Green Bean Casserole can be both comforting and nutrient-rich, especially when you make certain adjustments. At its core, green beans are low in calories but packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They’re an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for immune health, as well as folate, which supports cell growth.
The creamy sauce in this casserole, typically made from cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and cheese, adds some richness and flavor, but it also increases the calorie and fat content. For example, one serving of traditional green bean casserole (about 1 cup) can contain around 200 to 300 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used and the portion size.
The French fried onions that top the casserole also contribute to the overall calorie count, adding both fat and sodium. However, they provide a deliciously crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender green beans and creamy sauce. If you’re looking to make a lighter version of the dish, you could try using baked onions or opting for a healthier homemade fried onion topping.
For those who are watching their sodium intake, consider making your own cream of mushroom soup and using low-sodium or no-salt-added ingredients where possible. Additionally, replacing some of the cheese or sour cream with lower-fat alternatives can help reduce the fat and calorie content without sacrificing too much flavor.
In terms of macronutrients, a typical serving of green bean casserole will contain around 10-15 grams of fat, 20-30 grams of carbohydrates (mostly from the green beans and the soup base), and 3-5 grams of protein. Adding bacon or sausage to the casserole will increase the protein content and add a bit more fat, while eliminating the fried onions will reduce the overall carb and fat count.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is a versatile dish that pairs well with a wide variety of mains and sides. For a traditional holiday meal, serve it alongside roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce. The rich, creamy texture of the casserole complements the savory, juicy turkey, while the green beans provide a fresh contrast to the creamy potatoes.
For a more casual meal, you can pair the casserole with grilled chicken, pork chops, or even a hearty vegetarian entrée like lentil loaf or veggie burgers. The casserole’s flavor profile also works well with roasted root vegetables, such as carrots or sweet potatoes, which bring a natural sweetness to balance the savory green beans.
When it comes to beverages, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with green bean casserole. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
For a more indulgent meal, serve the casserole with a side of garlic bread or cornbread. The crispy bread complements the creamy casserole, and both items are sure to be a hit with your guests.
Tips and Tricks for Success
To ensure your Crockpot Green Bean Casserole turns out perfectly, here are some expert tips:
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Pre-cook the green beans: If you prefer a firmer texture in your casserole, lightly blanch the green beans before adding them to the crockpot. This will prevent them from becoming too soft during the cooking process.
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Use fresh mushrooms: While canned mushroom soup is often the go-to for this dish, fresh mushrooms can add a richer flavor. Sautéing them in butter or olive oil before adding them to the casserole will enhance their flavor and prevent them from becoming too watery.
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Don’t skimp on the crispy onions: The crispy French fried onions are one of the standout features of this casserole, providing a satisfying crunch. Be sure to add them toward the end of cooking to ensure they stay crispy.
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Cook on low: For the best results, cook the casserole on the low setting in your crockpot. This allows the flavors to meld together slowly, ensuring a creamy, flavorful dish.
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Customize the topping: If you’re looking for a unique twist, consider topping your casserole with grated Parmesan cheese or toasted breadcrumbs before serving. This adds a layer of flavor and texture that will elevate the dish.
Potential Health Benefits
While Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is undeniably a comfort food, it also offers a few health benefits thanks to the green beans themselves. Green beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and can help lower cholesterol levels. They are also rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids, which help fight inflammation and promote overall health.
The mushrooms used in the cream of mushroom soup or as a standalone ingredient are also a great source of antioxidants, as well as vitamins and minerals like potassium, selenium, and vitamin D. Additionally, if you make the casserole from scratch and opt for a lower-fat, lower-sodium version, you can enjoy a healthier take on this classic dish without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion
Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is a timeless, versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Its creamy texture, savory flavor, and crispy topping make it a crowd-pleaser at any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to satisfy and leave your guests asking for more. So why not give it a try and experience the magic of this comforting classic?