Description
This Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole is a creamy, comforting twist on the classic holiday side dish. Made with green beans coated in a rich mixture of cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and seasonings, then baked to bubbly perfection and topped with crispy fried onions for a delightful crunch. Perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 cups green beans (canned, drained; fresh, blanched; or frozen, thawed and dried)
Sauce
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 cup fried onion rings (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prepare it for the casserole.
- Prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the softened cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine the green beans: Add the green beans to the saucepan and stir gently to coat them evenly with the creamy mixture.
- Add cheese (optional): Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese into the green bean mixture, stirring until the cheese has melted completely.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the green bean mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out to create an even layer.
- Top with fried onions: Sprinkle the fried onion rings evenly over the top of the casserole to add a crispy texture.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the onions on top are golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving to enhance flavors and prevent burns.
Notes
- You can use any type of green beans: canned, fresh, or frozen. Just be sure to drain or blanch them appropriately.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and cheddar with vegan alternatives.
- Add crispy bacon bits for an extra savory twist.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the milk slightly or add more cream cheese.
- Make it ahead: assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
