My husband, Gerald, loves Green Bean Casserole. Every year, around Thanksgiving and Christmas this is a dish that he starts talking about. Usually, I never hear him say anything about it, except around the Holidays. “What to Eat With Green Bean Casserole? Best Side Dish”
So, I’m going to answer some popular questions about this favorite dish, plus tell you some great side dishes to have with your classic green bean casserole.
What is a green bean casserole?
A holiday meal is not complete with a healthy green bean casserole. It is an easy recipe to make and only takes a few ingredients from the grocery store. This dish is most popular for Thanksgiving Dinner and Christmas Dinner. It is a classic side dish on any Thanksgiving table and the best way to serve this dish is with a turkey or ham as the main course.
This green bean casserole recipe consists of tender green beans, cream of mushroom canned soup, milk, and crispy fried onions. Add these ingredients into a baking dish and bake in the oven until golden brown. To me the best part are the crispy fried onions!
Green Bean Casserole Q&A
Is a green bean casserole a main dish or side dish? A green bean casserole is the perfect side dish, however if you add protein to it, like chicken, then it could be a main meal.
Why is green bean casserole a thing? This green bean mixture was created by a Campbell Soup company employee (Dorcas Reilly)in 1955.
When did green bean casserole become a thing? In 1955, it was created by a Campbell Soup Employee
How popular is green bean casserole for Thanksgiving? It was originally a side dish until Campbell’s added the recipe to their can’s label and it became the classic holiday side dish for Thanksgiving Dinners or Holiday Dinner in the 1960’s.
What is in a traditional green bean casserole?
- green beans
- cream of mushroom soup
- french fried onions – crispy onions
What type of green beans for a casserole?
Which is better frozen green beans, fresh green beans or canned green beans for green bean casserole? Of course, fresh green beans are best, however due the cost of groceries, canned green beans are more popular. And really any of these will make the best green bean casserole.
Are canned green beans just as good? They may not be the best, but with a little seasoning they’ll make a great recipe.
What can you put in canned green beans to make them taste better? A great way to add a little extra flavor is to sprinkle in some garlic powder or onion powder. Of course, there are tons of green bean recipes online for the Holiday season.
Should you drain and rinse canned green beans? Yes, the first thing is to drain and rinse the green beans.
Can you overcook canned green beans? Yes, you can overcook green beans, so follow the recipe card to have the rich flavor of the beans for your easy green bean casserole.
What are the best canned green beans? The most popular are Del Monte green beans. However, any brand will work for this Thanksgiving classic.
Are canned green beans cheaper than fresh? Yes, canned green beans are a great alternative to fresh beans and they are cheaper.
How do I make a green bean casserole?
Can you mix up green bean casserole the day before? Yes, this great dish can made the day before. It takes minutes of prep, then refrigerate and cook the next day.
Can I make a green bean casserole in the slow cooker? Yes, it’ll will take a little longer, but you can make this French’s green bean casserole in a slow cooker.
Can I make a green bean casserole in an instant pot? Yes, you can make this Thanksgiving tradition in an instant pot.
What can I add to my green beans? What can I add to green bean casserole?
- soy sauce
- creamy mushroom sauce
- cheddar cheese
- olive oil
- parmesan cheese
- black pepper and salt
- chicken broth
- vegetable broth
- bread crumbs
- fresh herbs
- fried shallots
- caramelized onions
- cream cheese
- unsweetened almond milk or low-fat milk (replace the milk)
- lemon juice
- cayenne pepper
What meat can I add to green beans for flavor? Any protein can be added, however bacon would be a perfect addition to this favorite side dish.
What should I season my canned green beans with? There are a lot of delicious ideas, but my favorite is black pepper and garlic powder.
How to make canned beans taste like home made? Add some minced garlic and bacon (or bacon grease, if you have any on hand)
What can I eat with Green Bean Casserole? Best side dishes:
- pork chops
- pork steaks
- fried chicken
- baked chicken
- chicken strips or chicken tenders
- ham
- steak
- roast turkey
- easy chicken casserole
- sweet potatoes
- sweet potato casserole
- cream potatoes
How do I store and cook leftovers?
Does green bean casserole taste better the next day? Yes, the best flavors are sometimes better the next day.
How many days does green bean casserole last in the fridge? Store the casserole in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Can you make green bean casserole ahead of time and reheat? Yes, you can prep the casserole days before and cook when needed.
How do you reheat a refrigerated green bean casserole? Yes, be sure that your baking dish is at room temperature before placing it into the oven.
Should you cover a casserole when reheating? Yes, place a sheet of aluminum foil over the top of your baking dish
How do you reheat a casserole without overcooking it? It should only take up to 20 minutes for the casserole to reheat.
Will cooked beans last 4 to 5 days in the refrigerator and 6 months in the freezer? Yes, the green beans will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 6 months in the freezer.
How long does it take to heat up green bean casserole in the oven? Approximately 20 minutes.
Is it better to reheat a casserole in the oven or microwave? If you want to reheat the entire casserole then the oven would be best, however for just 1 serving of the casserole could be reheated in the microwave.
In the United States, the green bean casserole has became a favorite side dish for the Holidays. However, it is also a great dish for any weeknight dinner and everyday meals.
