No Southern Thanksgiving table is complete without the Best Southern Green Bean Casserole Recipes for Thanksgiving Gatherings. I still remember my grandma pulling this bubbling dish out of the oven, the crispy fried onions on top making everyone rush to the table. With tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and a golden topping, this casserole is both simple and full of tradition. It’s a dish that brings family together, offering both comfort and nostalgia with every bite.
Ingredients
4 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut (or 2 cans drained)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup whole milk
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for a Southern twist)
1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions
Optional: 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Blanch fresh green beans in boiling water for 3–4 minutes, then drain. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the fried onions. Add green beans and stir until evenly coated. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes until bubbly. Top with remaining fried onions and cheddar cheese if using. Return to oven for 5–7 minutes until golden and crisp. Serve hot with turkey, stuffing, and gravy.
Substitutions
Use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom for a different flavor. Swap fried onions for buttered breadcrumbs if you prefer. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat soup. For a vegetarian version, stick to cream of mushroom and add extra veggies like carrots or bell peppers.
Equipment
Large pot for blanching green beans
Mixing bowl
9×13 baking dish
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers covered for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Assemble casserole without fried onion topping and freeze for up to 2 months. Add topping and bake before serving.
Reheating: Warm in oven at 325°F until heated through, adding extra fried onions if needed.
Top Tips
Always blanch fresh beans first so they stay tender-crisp. Add cheese for extra richness—a Southern favorite. Bake uncovered for a bubbly finish, then add topping at the end so it stays crunchy. Double the recipe if you’re feeding a crowd.
FAQs
Can I use canned green beans? Yes, but fresh beans give better texture and flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely, prepare up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Add topping right before baking.
Can I add meat to this dish? Yes, bacon or sausage makes it heartier.
Is this casserole gluten-free? Use gluten-free fried onions and soup to keep it GF.