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This Ultimate Green Bean Casserole is a delightful twist on the traditional holiday favorite. With smoky bacon, earthy mushrooms, and creamy Monterey Jack cheese, every bite is a perfect balance of savory richness and crunch. The French fried onions on top add a satisfying texture, making this casserole a standout on your Thanksgiving table.
Not only is this dish loaded with comforting flavors, but it’s also quick and convenient to make, thanks to canned green beans and pre-made cream of mushroom soup. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or enjoying a quiet meal, this casserole will bring warmth and satisfaction to your plate.
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Full Recipe:
- 6 strips bacon
- 1/2 onion, finely diced
- 1 1/2 cups chopped button mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (10.5-ounce) cans cream of mushroom condensed soup
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 (14.5-ounce) cans cut green beans, drained
- 1 1/2 cups French fried onions
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium-low heat until crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels, then crumble.
- Drain all but 2 tablespoons of bacon grease from the skillet. Add onions and sauté over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the undiluted cream of mushroom soup and crumbled bacon, stirring to combine.
- Stir in milk and Monterey Jack cheese, continuing to mix until the cheese is melted. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Fold in the drained green beans until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Top with French fried onions and bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: 213 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
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Ultimate Green Bean Casserole: A Modern Twist on a Classic
The green bean casserole has been a cornerstone of holiday feasts for decades. A dish that brings nostalgia and warmth, it has graced countless Thanksgiving and Christmas tables, serving as a symbol of family traditions and culinary comfort. However, this version of the green bean casserole takes the classic recipe and transforms it into a luxurious, flavor-packed side dish that will wow your family and friends.
The History of Green Bean Casserole
The traditional green bean casserole was created in the 1950s by Dorcas Reilly, a home economist working for the Campbell Soup Company. Her goal was to develop a quick and easy recipe using ingredients readily available in most households. The combination of canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions was a hit, earning a permanent place in American culinary history.
Over the years, the dish has evolved with new ingredients and techniques, yet its essence—a creamy, savory, and crunchy medley—remains timeless. The Ultimate Green Bean Casserole takes this heritage and elevates it with thoughtful ingredient additions and enhancements.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Ultimate Green Bean Casserole takes the familiar elements of the original dish and layers in gourmet flavors that appeal to modern palates. The inclusion of smoky bacon adds depth and richness, while sautéed mushrooms provide a delightful umami kick. Monterey Jack cheese melts seamlessly into the dish, adding creaminess and a subtle tang that pairs beautifully with the green beans.
The use of French fried onions on top maintains the traditional crispy texture, but their role is now accentuated by the interplay of other bold flavors. With its balance of simplicity and sophistication, this recipe bridges the gap between comfort food and culinary artistry.
Customizing the Recipe to Your Tastes
One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. Whether you prefer to use fresh green beans for a firmer texture or stick with canned beans for their tenderness and convenience, the choice is yours. Similarly, while the recipe calls for Monterey Jack cheese, you can easily substitute it with cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda to suit your flavor preferences.
For those looking to make the dish more health-conscious, using turkey bacon or omitting the bacon altogether provides a leaner alternative. You can also incorporate additional vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or steamed broccoli, for added color and nutrients.
A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion
Though green bean casserole is synonymous with holiday gatherings, it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures make it a great side dish for Sunday dinners, potlucks, or family celebrations. You can even prepare it in advance, making it an ideal option for busy hosts during the holiday season.
The casserole’s ability to bring people together around the dinner table cannot be overstated. Its aroma wafting from the oven is sure to evoke warm memories of past celebrations while creating new ones for future gatherings.
The Importance of Texture and Balance
One of the standout features of this recipe is its focus on texture. The creamy mushroom sauce, tender green beans, and crunchy fried onions work harmoniously to create a dish that is both comforting and exciting. This balance of textures elevates the green bean casserole from a simple side dish to a culinary centerpiece.
The recipe also emphasizes the importance of seasoning. With salt, pepper, and the natural flavors of its ingredients, every bite is perfectly seasoned without being overwhelming. This balance ensures that the dish complements rather than competes with the other items on your holiday table.
Tips for Perfect Execution
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality bacon and fresh mushrooms for the best results. While canned green beans are convenient, fresh or frozen green beans can add a delightful crispness.
- Don’t Skip the Bacon Grease: Cooking the onions and mushrooms in rendered bacon grease infuses them with a smoky, savory flavor that forms the backbone of the dish.
- Timing Matters: To prevent soggy fried onions, add them just before baking. This ensures they remain crispy and golden, providing the perfect finishing touch.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, refrigerating it without the fried onion topping. Simply add the onions before baking and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
The Role of This Dish in Holiday Meals
Green bean casserole holds a special place in holiday traditions because of its nostalgic appeal and ability to complement a wide range of dishes. Its creamy base pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or ham, while its savory flavors provide a welcome contrast to sweeter sides like cranberry sauce and candied yams.
The Ultimate Green Bean Casserole serves as a reminder of the power of food to bring people together. It’s a dish that speaks to tradition, innovation, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.
Conclusion: A New Holiday Tradition
The Ultimate Green Bean Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s an invitation to embrace the past while creating new memories. With its smoky, creamy, and crispy elements, this dish is sure to be the highlight of any holiday table. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of green bean casserole or a newcomer to this classic side, this elevated version is guaranteed to impress.
From its humble origins to its modern-day reinvention, green bean casserole continues to hold a cherished spot in American cuisine. By taking the time to make this Ultimate version, you’re not just preparing food—you’re creating a dish that celebrates the season, family, and the enduring magic of shared meals.
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Ultimate Green Bean Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
This Ultimate Green Bean Casserole is a delightful twist on the traditional holiday favorite. With smoky bacon, earthy mushrooms, and creamy Monterey Jack cheese, every bite is a perfect balance of savory richness and crunch. The French fried onions on top add a satisfying texture, making this casserole a standout on your Thanksgiving table.
Not only is this dish loaded with comforting flavors, but it’s also quick and convenient to make, thanks to canned green beans and pre-made cream of mushroom soup. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or enjoying a quiet meal, this casserole will bring warmth and satisfaction to your plate.
Ingredients
- 6 strips bacon
- 1/2 onion, finely diced
- 1 1/2 cups chopped button mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (10.5-ounce) cans cream of mushroom condensed soup
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 (14.5-ounce) cans cut green beans, drained
- 1 1/2 cups French fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium-low heat until crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels, then crumble.
- Drain all but 2 tablespoons of bacon grease from the skillet. Add onions and sauté over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the undiluted cream of mushroom soup and crumbled bacon, stirring to combine.
- Stir in milk and Monterey Jack cheese, continuing to mix until the cheese is melted. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Fold in the drained green beans until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Top with French fried onions and bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes