This cozy green bean casserole with potatoes brings comfort to any meal. It mixes tender green beans, creamy sauce, and crunchy toppings for a tasty side dish everyone loves!
I must admit, I always sneak a few bites before serving. It just smells so good! Plus, it’s super easy to make—just layer, bake, and enjoy the yummy results!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for this dish, giving a nice crunch. If fresh isn’t available, frozen green beans work just fine. I’ve used both and can’t tell much difference after baking.
Potatoes: I recommend Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes as they hold their shape well. If you want to skip potatoes, try adding mushrooms or other vegetables for variety.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: You can use a homemade version if you prefer to avoid canned soup. Alternatively, cream of chicken soup or a plant-based version will work well for a different flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its taste, but feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese for a lighter or vegan option.
Crispy Fried Onions: Store-bought crispy fried onions make it easy. Or you can make your own by frying thin slices of onions in oil until golden. They add a nice crunch, but I often skip them when I’m feeling lazy.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole is Creamy and Not Dry?
Getting the right creamy texture in your casserole is key! Here are steps to help achieve that rich creaminess:
- Use the right amount of milk when mixing with the cream of mushroom soup. It shouldn’t be too thick!
- Mix everything thoroughly so every bite is creamy. Folding the potatoes and beans helps blend the flavors.
- Baking the dish uncovered allows it to get bubbly; check after the initial 20 minutes to ensure it’s not too dry. If it looks dry, add a splash of milk before adding fried onions.
With these tips, your casserole will be creamy and delicious! Enjoy this comforting dish that’s great for any meal.
How to Make Green Bean Casserole With Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 3 cups fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-2 inch pieces
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
Base Ingredients:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons butter
Cheese & Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
Seasonings:
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes for baking, totaling about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s simple and perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A warm oven is essential for baking this wonderful casserole evenly.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the diced potatoes. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they are just tender. After draining, set them aside and let them cool for a moment.
3. Blanch the Green Beans:
In the same pot or a separate one, blanch the green beans in boiling water. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set them aside as well.
4. Prepare the Casserole Mix:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, chopped onions, and butter. If you’re using garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce, add those now too! Season the mixture with salt and pepper. Stir everything well until fully combined.
5. Fold in the Vegetables:
Carefully fold the cooked potatoes and green beans into the soup mixture, ensuring everything is well coated with the creamy goodness.
6. Assemble in a Casserole Dish:
Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Spread it evenly so that all the ingredients are nicely distributed.
7. Add Cheddar Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. This cheesy layer will melt beautifully!
8. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until it is bubbly and the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.
9. Top with Fried Onions:
Once it’s bubbly, take it out of the oven and sprinkle the crispy fried onions over the top layer. This adds a crunchy texture that makes it super tasty.
10. Final Bake to Golden Brown:
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the fried onions are golden brown and crispy.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
After removing it from the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before digging in. This will help set it up a bit. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans?
Absolutely! Frozen green beans are a convenient option and will work well in this casserole. Just make sure to blanch them briefly as instructed to retain their bright color and texture.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No worries! You can substitute it with homemade cream of mushroom sauce or use cream of chicken soup. Alternatively, a white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk will work in a pinch!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire casserole ahead of time! Just assemble it, cover with foil, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake it right before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or microwave individual portions until hot.