Name: Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10.5 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup (one can); ½ cup milk (substitute almond milk for a dairy-free option); 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 2 medium garlic cloves (minced); 33 oz green beans (3 cans, drained); 6 oz fried onions (divided); ½ cup hard cheese (grated); ⅓ cup walnuts (chopped, optional); ¼ cup scallions (finely chopped)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 27 reviews

If you have a soft spot for classic comfort foods with a creamy twist, you are absolutely going to adore this Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe. This dish takes the beloved green bean casserole up a notch by adding rich, velvety cream cheese to the mix, creating a luscious texture that pairs perfectly with tender green beans and crispy fried onions. It’s nostalgia with a gourmet flair, making it an ideal side for family dinners, holiday feasts, or any time you crave something warm and satisfying. Trust me, once you try this version, it will quickly become a new favorite in your recipe box.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a soft peach cloth over a white marbled surface with small blue specks. Inside the bowl, there is a creamy light beige sauce layer filled with chopped green beans, which are bright green and spread evenly in the sauce. On top of the green beans and sauce, a thick mound of crispy golden-brown fried onions is piled in the center, adding a crunchy texture contrast. The bowl's clear sides show all layers clearly from above. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient brings its own flavor and texture, coming together to create a comforting and well-balanced casserole. From creamy elements to crunchy toppings, every component plays an essential role.

Condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz): The classic base that adds earthiness and creamy thickness with ease.
Milk (½ cup): Helps to smooth out the mixture; almond milk is a great substitute for a lighter touch.
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The star of this casserole, providing creamy richness and a subtle tang.
Garlic cloves (2 medium, minced): Adds a fresh, aromatic layer that brightens the dish.
Green beans (33 oz, canned): Tender and ready to use, they bring that classic vegetable crunch and color.
Fried onions (6 oz): For that irresistible crispy topping that makes every bite memorable.
Hard cheese (½ cup, grated): Adds a savory, golden crust when baked on top.
Walnuts (⅓ cup, chopped, optional): A delightful nutty crunch that’s totally optional but adds amazing texture.
Scallions (¼ cup, finely chopped): Fresh and vibrant, perfect for a final pop of color and mild onion flavor.

How to Make Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Kick things off by preheating your oven to 350ºF. This ensures it’s perfectly hot and ready for your casserole to bake evenly, developing that divine golden crust we’re aiming for.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, softened cream cheese, and minced garlic. Stir everything thoroughly until the mixture is silky and well combined. If the cream cheese isn’t quite softened, a whisk works wonders to get it smooth and lump-free.

Step 3: Combine Green Beans and Onions

Drain the canned green beans and fold them gently into the creamy mixture to coat each bean nicely without breaking them apart. Then, stir in about two-thirds of the fried onions for that sneak peek of crispness within the casserole.

Step 4: Bake the Base Casserole

Transfer the green bean mixture into a 1 ½-quart baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through fully.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

When the timer goes off, pull the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining fried onions, grated hard cheese, and chopped walnuts on top. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to let the topping turn golden and bubbling delightfully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish by scattering finely chopped scallions over the casserole for a burst of fresh color and a light onion hint that cuts through the richness.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe

A white square ceramic baking dish holds a baked casserole with a single thick layer topped with melted light golden cheese that is slightly browned in spots. Scattered over the top are thin green slices of fresh scallions, adding a pop of color against the creamy cheese and textured bits of toasted ingredients underneath. The casserole surface shows a mix of creamy and crunchy textures. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a light pink cloth and wooden utensils nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding fresh scallions on top right before serving gives a wonderful sharp contrast to the creamy casserole. For a little extra flair, you can sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper or even a pinch of smoked paprika for subtle heat and color.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken, mashed potatoes, or even a simple baked ham. The creamy texture and crunchy topping complement traditional holiday main dishes perfectly, shining as a cozy and hearty side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personalized portions. You can also add a sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan on top before baking for an alternative crispy crust. Another idea is to layer the casserole with fresh sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe, simply cover the leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and textures intact.

Freezing

If you’d like to save some for later, this casserole freezes beautifully. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated 350ºF oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This method helps bring back the crispy topping and creamy inside without drying out the dish. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh, blanch the green beans until just tender before mixing them with the cream cheese mixture. This allows you to control the texture better and adds freshness to the casserole.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based milk substitute like almond or oat milk. Opt for dairy-free mushroom soup and skip the hard cheese topping or choose a vegan cheese alternative to keep it creamy and delicious.

What can I substitute if I don’t have fried onions?

You can toast some thinly sliced onions in oil or butter until golden and crispy as a homemade alternative. Panko breadcrumbs toasted with a little seasoning also work well for that crunchy texture on top.

Can I add other vegetables or ingredients?

Definitely! Mushrooms, sliced water chestnuts, or even diced cooked bacon can complement the flavors nicely. Just be mindful not to overpower the classic green bean base and the creamy texture with too many extras.

How many does this recipe serve?

This recipe comfortably serves about 8 people as a side dish, making it perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings where you want a crowd-pleasing classic with a rich twist.

Final Thoughts

This Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe is a heartwarming, crowd-pleasing dish that deserves a spot at your table. It’s the perfect blend of creamy comfort and crispy topping with a fresh finish—a combo that never fails to delight. Give it a try for your next meal, and I promise you’ll be reaching for the recipe again and again.