Green Bean and Potato Casserole Recipe
If you are searching for a comforting and delicious side dish that effortlessly combines fresh vegetables with creamy, cheesy goodness, this Green Bean and Potato Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It features tender baby potatoes and crisp green beans coated in a savory mushroom soup and sour cream sauce, all topped with a golden crust of cheddar, Parmesan, and crispy French fried onions. This casserole is not only a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners but also a fantastic addition to holiday tables where warmth and flavor take center stage.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this Green Bean and Potato Casserole Recipe is how the simple, everyday ingredients work together to create layers of texture and flavor. Each item has a role, from the creamy base to the crunchy topping, making it a recipe that’s both straightforward and satisfying.
- 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes (halved or quartered): These give the casserole hearty, tender bites with a lovely creamy interior.
- 1 pound fresh green beans (trimmed and halved): They add vibrant color and a crisp, fresh counterpoint to the richness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté onions and garlic, bringing out their sweetness and deepening the flavor.
- 1 small onion (thinly sliced): Provides a subtle sharpness and soft texture that blends beautifully throughout.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a fragrant warmth that elevates the dish’s savory notes.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup: The creamy base for the casserole with earthy undertones that marry the ingredients.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Offers tangy creaminess that balances richness and lightens the sauce.
- 1/2 cup milk: Helps create a smooth, luscious consistency without weighing down the casserole.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory flavors by reinforcing onion notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Works alongside fresh garlic to amplify the aroma and taste.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors into harmony.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey pockets of sharp, buttery flavor.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty crust once baked.
- 1 cup French fried onions (for topping): Provides a crispy, golden finish that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior.
How to Make Green Bean and Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the baby potatoes for 8 to 10 minutes until they are just tender enough to pierce with a fork. Add the fresh green beans into the pot during the last 3 minutes of cooking to keep them crisp-tender. Drain them carefully and set aside to cool slightly so they hold their texture in the casserole.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
While the vegetables are cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. This step is key to building a depth of flavor that brightens the casserole.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Once combined, fold in the sautéed onions and garlic. This luscious mixture is what coats the tender potatoes and green beans, tying all the elements together into a creamy dream.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
Gently fold the cooked potatoes and green beans into the creamy sauce, ensuring every piece is evenly coated. Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses on top to build a rich, melted layer that becomes irresistibly golden during baking.
Step 5: Bake and Add Crunchy Topping
Bake the casserole for 25 minutes until it’s bubbling hot and the cheese has melted beautifully. Then take it out of the oven and scatter the French fried onions evenly over the surface. Return the dish to the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes so the onions become extra golden and crisp. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to let everything settle and flavors meld.
How to Serve Green Bean and Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add a fresh burst of color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can add a lovely sheen and an extra hint of richness that complements the cheesy, creamy layers perfectly.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or pork, making it a perfect side for holiday feasts. It also complements lighter protein options such as grilled fish or tofu, balancing the meal with hearty comfort without overpowering the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For smaller gatherings or to create an elegant buffet, consider preparing this Green Bean and Potato Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins. This allows you to serve personalized portions with golden tops that look stunning and provide everyone their own perfectly crispy crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this comforting casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover the surface with plastic wrap or foil to keep the crispy topping from becoming soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking by assembling the dish and wrapping it tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as usual, adding a bit of extra time to ensure it is heated through completely.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual servings in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes. This method helps maintain the casserole’s texture better than microwaving. For a quick option, use the microwave but expect the topping to soften somewhat.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen green beans work well in this recipe; just make sure to thaw and drain them before mixing to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as written, but you can enhance it by adding cooked mushrooms or plant-based bacon substitutes for even more flavor and texture.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Swap the French fried onions for a gluten-free crunchy topping like crushed gluten-free crackers or toasted gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep the signature crispiness without gluten.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerating it for a few hours before baking is a great time saver, and the flavors have even more time to meld.
What can I add to boost the flavor even more?
To amp up the savory goodness, stir in cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or caramelized onions before baking. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also add wonderful aroma and depth.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a Green Bean and Potato Casserole Recipe that feels like a warm hug in food form. Its creamy texture, cheesy layers, and crispy topping come together to create a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday celebrations, or any gathering when you want to share comfort and joy. I encourage you to try this recipe and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
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Green Bean and Potato Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Green Bean and Potato Casserole is a comforting and cheesy vegetable side dish perfect for holidays or any family meal. Tender baby potatoes and fresh green beans are coated in a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, and finished with a crispy layer of French fried onions for the ultimate texture and flavor combination.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes (halved or quartered)
- 1 pound fresh green beans (trimmed and halved)
- 1 small onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup French fried onions (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Boil Potatoes and Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the halved or quartered baby potatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes until just fork-tender. During the last 3 minutes, add the trimmed and halved green beans. Drain both and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add thinly sliced onions and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, releasing fragrant aromas.
- Make Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Stir in the sautéed onions and garlic to incorporate their flavors.
- Combine Vegetables and Sauce: Add the cooked potatoes and green beans to the sauce mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the vegetable and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top for a rich, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, until the dish is hot and bubbly around the edges.
- Add French Fried Onions: Remove the casserole from the oven and evenly sprinkle the French fried onions over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes to set before serving. Enjoy warm as a flavorful and hearty side dish.
Notes
- You can substitute frozen green beans (thawed) or use canned in a pinch if fresh are unavailable.
- For added flavor and protein, stir in chopped cooked bacon or diced ham before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
