Green bean casserole is a quintessential holiday dish that has earned its place on Christmas dinner tables across America. With its creamy sauce, tender green beans, and crunchy topping, it’s a comforting side that complements any festive feast. In this article, we’ll explore the history of green bean casserole, why it’s a Christmas favorite, and how to make the best version of this classic dish.
A Brief History of Green Bean Casserole
The origins of green bean casserole date back to 1955 when Dorcas Reilly, a home economist at the Campbell Soup Company, created the recipe. Designed to be simple, affordable, and delicious, it quickly became a household favorite. The dish’s reliance on pantry staples—canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and fried onions—made it accessible to families across the country. Over the decades, it has evolved into a symbol of holiday tradition and comfort.
Why Green Bean Casserole Is Perfect for Christmas
Green bean casserole’s popularity during the Christmas season stems from its rich flavors and ease of preparation. Here’s why it’s a festive favorite:
- Versatility: It pairs well with main courses like roasted turkey, ham, or beef.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Its creamy, crunchy texture appeals to a wide range of palates.
- Nostalgia: For many, it evokes memories of family gatherings and holiday traditions.
ALSO READ: Amazing Christmas Eggnog Recipe
Christmas Green Bean Casserole Recipe
6
servings10
minutes30
minutes180
kcalThis Christmas, celebrate tradition with a dish that has stood the test of time. Green bean casserole is easy to prepare, customizable, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the dinner table. Serve it alongside your holiday favorites and make your Christmas meal truly unforgettable.
Ingredients
1 pound of green beans (trimmed and blanched, or thawed if frozen)
1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of mushroom soup
½ cup of milk or heavy cream
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
½ teaspoon of salt
½ teaspoon of pepper
1 cup of fried onions (plus extra for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Add the green beans to the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle fried onions generously over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
- Garnish with additional fried onions and serve hot.