Description
A creamy and comforting Green Bean Casserole with cream cheese, combining tender green beans, flavorful cream of mushroom soup, and a crispy fried onion topping, baked to golden perfection. This classic side dish is elevated with the addition of garlic, walnuts, and scallions, perfect for holiday dinners or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Creamy Base
- 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)
Vegetables and Toppings
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Make Creamy Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, softened cream cheese, and minced garlic. Stir thoroughly until smooth. If the cream cheese is not fully softened, whisk to blend evenly.
- Combine Green Beans and Mixture: Drain the canned green beans well, then gently fold them into the cream cheese mixture. Add 2/3 cup of the fried onions and mix carefully to combine.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the green bean mixture into a 1½-quart baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake First Stage: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow the casserole to set and flavors to meld.
- Add Toppings and Bake Again: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining fried onions, grated hard cheese, and chopped walnuts evenly on top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with finely chopped scallions for fresh flavor and color, then serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute almond milk or other plant-based milk for a dairy-free alternative.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to achieve a smooth mixture; gently warming may help.
- Chopped walnuts add a nice texture and flavor but can be omitted for nut allergies.
- For a fresher taste, consider using fresh green beans, blanched before mixing.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
