My easy Green Bean Casserole is one of those dishes that just feels right on a holiday table. It is creamy, cozy, and full of nostalgic flavor. If you grew up eating the version with canned soup and fried onions on top, trust me when I say this one keeps all the comfort but takes it up a notch.
This recipe is simple to make and does not require fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. It uses fresh green beans for a bit of texture, a creamy sauce that ties everything together, and just the right amount of crispy onions on top. It is the kind of dish that comes together without stress but tastes like you put so much thought into it.
What makes this easy green bean casserole special is the balance of flavors and textures. The beans stay a little crisp, the creamy sauce hugs every bite, and the golden onion topping adds the perfect crunch. It is the kind of side dish people expect, but with a little more love and a whole lot of flavor.
You can make it ahead of time and bake it when you are ready, which makes it a total lifesaver on Thanksgiving. It pairs beautifully with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and all the classics. But I will be honest, this green bean casserole does not just have to be for holidays. It is easy enough to whip up for Sunday supper or a cozy weeknight meal when you need a little extra comfort.
If you are used to the traditional version, this easy green bean casserole will still give you that familiar taste, just with a fresher, creamier experience. Keep it simple with the classic fried onions on top or make it your own by adding mushrooms, cheese, or even bacon. There is no wrong way, as long as it makes you happy and feeds your people well.
Make this casserole once and it might just become the dish you bring every single year. It is affordable, comes together fast, and it is guaranteed to disappear just as quickly once it hits the table. Whether you are carrying it into Grandma’s house or hosting at home, this is one side dish you can count on.
There is always a debate about whether green bean casserole is actually good. Some people swear by it, while others have never even given it a chance. But listen, even if this dish has never made it to your plate before, this is the year to try it. Think of it as if mac and cheese and green beans had a baby, kind of. Creamy, comforting, cheesy in all the right ways, and topped with a little crunch. Trust me, this version will turn you into a believer and might just become a new Thanksgiving must-have at your table.
Easy Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
- 32 oz fresh green beans, ends trimmed
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup chicken stock
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 5.2 oz container Boursin Caramelized Onion & Herbs cheese
- 1/2 cup pancetta, diced (or bacon, cooked and crumbled)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon complete seasoning, or your favorite all-purpose blend
- 6 oz French’s crispy fried onions, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 3-quart oval baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for 3–4 minutes, just until they turn bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking. Drain again and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour to make a roux and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until smooth and lightly golden.
- Slowly pour in the milk, heavy cream, and chicken stock, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Add in the cream of mushroom soup, Boursin cheese, Worcestershire sauce, complete seasoning, and shredded Mexican cheese. Stir until everything is melted and combined into a creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Add the blanched green beans and pancetta or crumbled bacon to the sauce. Gently stir to coat all the beans evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover the dish loosely with foil.
- Bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the crispy fried onions over the top, and bake uncovered for another 5 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crisp.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
