What To Know
- Garten’s recipe combines the classic flavors of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions to create a creamy, savory, and unforgettable dish.
- The green beans provide a fresh, crunchy texture, while the cream of mushroom soup adds a rich, savory flavor.
- The French Fried Onions add a crispy, salty touch that balances out the sweetness of the green beans and the creaminess of the soup.
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and food. And no Thanksgiving meal would be complete without Ina Garten’s iconic Green Bean Casserole. This beloved dish has become a staple on holiday tables across the country, and for good reason. Garten’s recipe combines the classic flavors of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions to create a creamy, savory, and unforgettable dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup French’s French Fried Onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the green beans: Trim the ends of the green beans and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
2. Make the sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the cream of mushroom soup and seasonings: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
4. Add the green beans: Add the green beans to the sauce and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still slightly crunchy.
5. Add the milk: Stir in the milk and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat.
6. Top with French Fried Onions: Sprinkle the French Fried Onions evenly over the green beans.
7. Bake: Transfer the casserole to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Tips for the Perfect Green Bean Casserole
- Use fresh green beans: Fresh green beans will give your casserole the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the green beans: They should be tender but still slightly crunchy.
- Make sure the sauce is thick: The sauce should be thick enough to coat the green beans and hold them together.
- Use high-quality French Fried Onions: French’s French Fried Onions are the classic choice for this dish, but you can use any brand you like.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: You can add other ingredients to your casserole, such as chopped mushrooms, bacon, or cheese.
Variations on Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Creamy Green Bean Casserole: Add 1/2 cup of sour cream or heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, creamier flavor.
- Bacon Green Bean Casserole: Cook 1/2 pound of bacon and crumble it over the casserole before baking.
- Cheesy Green Bean Casserole: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the casserole before baking.
- Mushroom Green Bean Casserole: Sauté 1/2 pound of chopped mushrooms and add them to the casserole before baking.
- Roasted Green Bean Casserole: Roast the green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding them to the casserole.
The History of Green Bean Casserole
Green Bean Casserole has been a Thanksgiving staple since the 1950s. It was first created by Dorcas Reilly, a home economist for the Campbell Soup Company. Reilly was tasked with creating a new recipe using Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup. She experimented with different ingredients and came up with the combination of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and French Fried Onions. The recipe quickly became a hit and has been passed down through generations.
The Science Behind Green Bean Casserole
The combination of ingredients in Green Bean Casserole creates a unique and delicious flavor profile. The green beans provide a fresh, crunchy texture, while the cream of mushroom soup adds a rich, savory flavor. The French Fried Onions add a crispy, salty touch that balances out the sweetness of the green beans and the creaminess of the soup.
The Nutritional Value of Green Bean Casserole
Green Bean Casserole is a relatively healthy dish, especially when compared to other Thanksgiving side dishes. It is low in calories and fat, and it contains a good amount of fiber and vitamins. However, it is important to note that the dish is also high in sodium, so it is important to enjoy it in moderation.
Key Points: The Ultimate Thanksgiving Side Dish
Ina Garten’s Green Bean Casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make, and versatile dish that is perfect for any Thanksgiving celebration. Whether you prefer the classic recipe or you enjoy experimenting with different variations, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I make Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make Green Bean Casserole up to 2 days ahead of time. Simply prepare the casserole as directed and let it cool completely. Cover the casserole and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the casserole in a preheated 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: Can I freeze Green Bean Casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze Green Bean Casserole for up to 2 months. Simply prepare the casserole as directed and let it cool completely. Cover the casserole tightly and freeze. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in a preheated 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: What can I do if my Green Bean Casserole is too watery?
A: If your Green Bean Casserole is too watery, you can thicken the sauce by adding a cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water. Bring the sauce to a simmer and gradually whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
