why make this recipe
Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is an easy and comforting dish perfect for gatherings. It combines the goodness of green beans with a creamy sauce and crunchy toppings, making it a crowd favorite.
The best part about this recipe is that it can cook while you focus on other tasks. It’s a simple dish that feels special, bringing warmth to any meal.
equipment needed for Crockpot Green Bean Casserole
To make Crockpot Green Bean Casserole, you will need a few essential pieces of equipment.
First, you’ll need a crockpot, also known as a slow cooker. It’s the heart of this recipe, allowing for easy cooking and blending of flavors over time. You will also need measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, along with a wooden spoon or spatula for mixing ingredients. Additionally, having a can opener on hand will speed up the preparation work.
Having a sharp knife and cutting board will help you prep any fresh ingredients if you choose to go that route. Finally, serving dishes will be necessary once your delicious casserole is ready.
What You Need to Make Crockpot Green Bean Casserole
- 58 oz. green beans (fresh cut or French style, drained (4 cans); if using frozen, thaw first)
- 21 oz. condensed cream of mushroom soup (2 cans; cream of chicken soup also works)
- ¾ cup milk (use heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer casserole)
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
- 6 oz. French fried onions (divided, 1 container)
How to Cook Crockpot Green Bean Casserole Step by Step
Begin your culinary journey by gathering all the necessary ingredients at your kitchen counter. Start with the cream of mushroom soup, pouring it into the bottom of your crockpot for a creamy base. Next, add the milk and sour cream, mixing them well. Make sure to stir until everything is thoroughly combined.
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. This will elevate the flavor profile beautifully, so don’t skip this step. Now, take your freshly shredded Parmesan cheese and fold it into the mixture. The cheese adds richness that complements the other ingredients.
Once everything is mixed, it’s time to introduce the star of the dish: the green beans. Whether they’re fresh or canned, dump them right in and mix until just combined. Don’t forget to add half of the French fried onions at this stage for that crispy crunch you expect from a casserole.
After all the ingredients are well incorporated, cover your crockpot with the lid. Set it to cook on low for about 2 to 3 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld together beautifully.
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, uncover your casserole and give it a good stir. This is also the time to sprinkle the remaining French fried onions on top. These will get golden and crispy, adding texture to your dish.
Once the casserole is done, serve it warm. It’s a delightful addition to any meal, perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts. Enjoy every bite!
how to serve Crockpot Green Bean Casserole
Serving Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is straightforward and inviting. Since it’s cooked in the crockpot, you can simply keep it in the pot while you serve.
Use a large serving spoon to scoop out generous helpings for each guest. The creamy texture and crispy topping make for a beautiful presentation. If desired, garnish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or some fresh herbs, like parsley, for a pop of color.
Make sure to provide enough serving areas and some plates nearby for easy access. This warm, comforting dish pairs well with a variety of main courses.
what to serve with Crockpot Green Bean Casserole
Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is versatile and fits well with many dishes. It pairs beautifully with roasted or grilled meats like chicken, beef, or pork. The creamy flavors of the casserole complement the savory taste of these dishes.
For a lighter meal, consider serving it alongside a simple salad. A refreshing green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the casserole.
Mashed potatoes are also a classic side option that works well. Their buttery texture matches the creaminess of the casserole for a truly comforting meal.
Additionally, it makes a great side for holiday gatherings, alongside turkey or ham. The flavors meld together with festive favorites like stuffing or cranberry sauce, making it a wholesome feast.
how to store Crockpot Green Bean Casserole
Storing Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is simple and convenient. If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool down to room temperature. This helps prevent moisture build-up, which can make the casserole soggy.
Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. Make sure the lid is on securely to preserve freshness. You can store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Place the cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container and seal it properly. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions as needed. Just be sure to check that it’s heated completely before serving.
tips to make Crockpot Green Bean Casserole
For the best results with your Crockpot Green Bean Casserole, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, try using fresh green beans if you can; they offer a better texture and flavor compared to canned ones. However, canned beans work well if you’re short on time.
Always drain your canned ingredients to prevent excess moisture from making the casserole watery. If you want a thicker consistency, consider adding an extra spoonful of sour cream or some cheese.
Mixing ingredients well ensures that all flavors can marry during the cooking process. Don’t rush the cooking time; letting the casserole cook low and slow allows for deep flavor development.
Lastly, feel free to customize the spices to your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can give the dish an exciting kick.
variation
Crockpot Green Bean Casserole offers room for variations, so feel free to get creative. If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, consider using cream of celery or cream of chicken soup instead.
For a meatier option, you can add cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham into the mix. This adds an extra layer of flavor and heartiness to the dish, making it even more satisfying.
If you’re looking to make it a bit lighter, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt. This keeps the creaminess while reducing calories. For a cheesy twist, consider adding cheddar cheese for extra flavor.
You could even try incorporating other vegetables, such as corn or carrots, to add color and nutrients. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they are tender and flavorful.
best time to make Crockpot Green Bean Casserole
Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is ideal for various occasions. It shines during the holiday season, particularly for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. Preparing it in the crockpot allows you to free up oven space for other dishes.
It’s also great for potluck events or family gatherings. You can prepare it in advance and let the delicious aroma fill your home as it cooks.
Any time you need a quick, comforting side dish, this casserole fits the bill perfectly. It’s fantastic for weeknight dinners when you want something hearty without a lot of fuss.
Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply a comforting meal, it’s versatile enough to suit any gathering.
common mistakes to avoid
When making Crockpot Green Bean Casserole, there are a few common mistakes to be aware of. One of the biggest pitfalls is not draining the canned green beans properly. This can result in a watery casserole, ruining the creamy consistency.
Another mistake is skipping the mixing step. It’s essential to combine all ingredients thoroughly before cooking to ensure a blended flavor.
Do not skip the French fried onions; they’re key to the dish’s signature crunch. Adding them only at the end allows them to stay crispy.
Lastly, avoid opening the lid too often during cooking. It releases heat and can extend the cooking time, affecting the overall outcome.
nutritional notes
Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is not just delicious; it also brings nutritional value to the table. Green beans are high in vitamins A, C, and K, providing essential nutrients for a healthy diet.
The dish contains a mix of cream and cheese, which offers calcium and protein, but also calories. Keep portion sizes in mind if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Using low-fat cream soups or dairy substitutes can help reduce calories while still providing flavor. Overall, this casserole can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
FAQs
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, fresh green beans can be used for a fresher taste; just make sure to trim and cut them to the desired size.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Adjust cooking time if starting from cold.
How do I make it gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free versions of cream soups and ensure your French fried onions are labeled gluten-free as well.
conclusion
Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish that appeals to many. Its creamy texture combined with crunchy toppings makes it a welcoming side for any meal.
Whether for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Embrace the ease of preparation, letting the crockpot do the work while you enjoy time with loved ones. Enjoy this classic dish that warms the heart and pleases the palate!
