There’s something magical about the aroma of a green bean casserole wafting through the house on a chilly evening. Today, I’m excited to share my twist on this beloved classic – a creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying casserole that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
- 1 cup crispy fried onions
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
Let’s Get Cooking!
- Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
- Blanch the Beans: In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the green beans for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately plunge into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and pat dry.
- Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese, half of the bacon bits, and black pepper. Gently fold in the blanched green beans until evenly coated.
- Layer and Bake: Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon bits. Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Add the Crunch: Sprinkle the crispy fried onions over the top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the onions are golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and prevents burnt tongues!
Tips and Variations
- For an extra kick, add a dash of garlic powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup mixture.
- Want it creamier? Stir in 1/4 cup of sour cream before baking.
- Make it vegetarian by omitting the bacon bits and using vegetable-based crispy onions.
This green bean casserole strikes the perfect balance between creamy and crispy, with a texture that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The black pepper adds a subtle warmth, while the bacon and crispy onions provide a delightful crunch in every bite.
Serve this comforting dish alongside your favorite main course, or bring it to your next potluck – I guarantee it’ll be a hit!
Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with the cozy aroma of this delicious green bean casserole!
