Paula Deen’s Savory Green Bean Casserole Recipe

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Introduction

Understanding the love for comfort food, green bean casserole stands out as a holiday staple and a family favorite. This savory green bean casserole recipe by Paula Deen elevates the traditional dish with creamy ingredients and a crispy topping. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures, offering something delightful for everyone. This casserole is a truly versatile dish that shines at holiday gatherings yet is also suitable for weeknight dinners and potlucks, bringing a warm sense of nostalgia to any table.

The harmony of tender green beans and rich mushroom soup creates a creamy, savory base that is just begging for a crispy topping. With the addition of French fried onions and optional cheddar cheese, this dish becomes an indulgent treat that is hard to resist. Whether you’re serving it during Thanksgiving, a family reunion, or simply on a cozy night at home, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Recipe Overview

– Total Time: 45 minutes

– Prep Time: 10 minutes

– Baking Time: 35 minutes

– Yield/Servings: Servings: 6-8

– Difficulty: Not specified in the recipe

Ingredients

– 2 cans (14.5 oz each) cut green beans, thoroughly drained

– 1 can (10.5 oz) creamy mushroom soup

– ½ cup milk (whole or low-fat)

– 1 cup crispy French fried onions

– 1 tsp soy sauce

– ½ tsp garlic powder

– ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking.

2. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the drained green beans, creamy mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well integrated.

3. Gently fold in ½ cup of the crispy French fried onions, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Reserve the remaining onions for the topping.

4. Pour the green bean mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly to create a smooth layer.

5. If you choose to add a cheesy twist, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole.

6. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes without covering.

7. After 25 minutes, carefully take the casserole out of the oven and evenly sprinkle the reserved French fried onions on top.

8. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the onions are beautifully golden brown and crispy.

9. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.

Canned Green Beans

Using canned green beans is a wonderful way to simplify your preparation while still enjoying a delicious dish. The recipe specifies 2 cans (14.5 oz each) of cut green beans, which should be thoroughly drained to remove excess liquid that may otherwise affect the casserole’s consistency. This ingredient acts as the star of the dish, providing the essential green ‘vegetable’ component. Quality is essential here; opting for green beans with minimal additives will enhance the overall flavor of the casserole. Properly draining them also ensures that the final dish does not become soggy, allowing for a satisfying crunch when combined with other ingredients.

Creamy Mushroom Soup

The creamy mushroom soup adds both flavor and texture to the casserole, acting as the base that binds everything together. The recipe calls for a can (10.5 oz) of creamy mushroom soup, which contributes a rich, umami flavor that enhances the overall depth of the dish. It is this luxurious creaminess that elevates the green bean casserole from a simple side to a dish that can stand on its own. When choosing your mushroom soup, look specifically for creamy versions to ensure that you achieve the intended richness.

Milk

Adding ½ cup of milk (whether whole or low-fat) enhances the viscosity of the soup mixture, ensuring that the casserole has the right creamy consistency. This ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the smooth texture that contrasts with the crispy topping. The milk will also help to balance the flavors and provide a cohesive blend when combined with the soup and seasonings. Depending on your preference, you may choose to stick with whole milk for a richer flavor or opt for low-fat milk for a slightly lighter version.

French Fried Onions

The recipe calls for 1 cup of crispy French fried onions, which serve both as a flavor enhancer and as the quintessential crispy topping. These onions add a delightful crunch to the casserole, contrasting beautifully with the soft green beans and creamy base. Their rich, savory taste complements the overall dish while elevating it with layers of texture. Some people enjoy incorporating more fried onions if they prefer an extra crunch, while others appreciate the balance achieved with a single cup. Regardless, this ingredient is integral to achieving the satisfying mouthfeel characteristic of a classic green bean casserole.

Flavor Enhancers

A few key spices ensure that your green bean casserole isn’t bland.

– Soy Sauce: This ingredient, measured at 1 tsp, adds depth and enhances the umami flavor profile, making the casserole more savory and interesting. The salty richness of soy sauce complements the earthiness of the mushrooms and balances the sweetness of the green beans.

– Garlic Powder: This key flavor enhancer at ½ tsp gives the dish a savory kick, enriching the overall taste with its aromatic profile. Garlic powder seamlessly blends into the mixture without overpowering the other flavors.

– Black Pepper: Using ½ tsp of freshly ground black pepper adds the perfect touch of heat, balancing the richness of the creamy base and ensuring that each bite has a nuanced flavor.

Optional Cheese

The inclusion of 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese is an optional indulgence that many choose to embrace. This addition transforms the casserole into a creamy, cheesy delight that many find irresistible. The melting cheddar enhances both flavor and creaminess, making the dish even more satisfying. When sprinkling the cheese over the top before baking, it’s essential to distribute it evenly to allow for uniform melting and a beautiful golden crust. If you prefer a lighter casserole, omitting the cheese is perfectly acceptable, as the dish remains flavorful without it.

Preheating the Oven

Preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) is an essential step that ensures even cooking from the very start. Preheating allows the casserole to bake uniformly, promoting consistent textures and flavors throughout the dish. This temperature is ideal for casseroles, allowing the ingredients to meld together, and ensuring that the toppings achieve a perfect crispness. Skipping this step could result in uneven baking, so it’s worth taking the time to let your oven reach the desired temperature before placing the casserole inside.

Combining Ingredients

The process of combining your ingredients is crucial to achieving a well-mixed and flavorful casserole. In a spacious mixing bowl, you’ll combine the drained green beans, creamy mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stirring thoroughly ensures that every bite will have a balanced flavor profile, with all components working in harmony. Mixing well is key to preventing clumping and ensuring that the casserole cooks evenly. To achieve a truly smooth blend, use a sturdy spoon or spatula to fold the ingredients gently without breaking down the green beans too much.

Incorporating Fried Onions

Folding in the crispy fried onions is a delicate process that helps maintain the desired texture of the dish. By gently incorporating ½ cup of the French fried onions into the green bean mixture, you ensure they are evenly distributed throughout, providing a burst of flavor in each scoop. This reserved portion, combined with the final topping, creates a delightful crunch that elevates the casserole experience. It’s important to handle this step with care, as over-mixing can lead to a mushy consistency.

Assembling the Casserole

Pouring and spreading the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish is straightforward but essential. Greasing the dish ensures that once baked, the casserole can be served easily without sticking, allowing for easy serving and clean-up. When spreading the mixture, aim to create a smooth, even layer across the bottom of the dish. This not only enhances the appearance but also promotes even cooking throughout. Taking the time to assemble properly lays the foundation for a visually appealing and delicious end result.

Adding Cheese (Optional)

If you opt to include the cheddar cheese, it’s best to sprinkle it evenly over the top of the casserole before it bakes. This allows it to melt uniformly and develop a beautiful, golden, bubbly crust. The balance of flavors and textures from the creamy base and the crunchy fried onions is elevated by the richness of the cheese, making each bite a delicious indulgence. Use a generous hand when sprinkling, but be sure to evenly distribute the cheese to achieve a consistent melt.

First Baking Phase

The initial baking phase involves placing your prepared casserole in the oven for 25 minutes. During this time, the mixture heats through, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Baking it without covering creates a lovely top layer that puffs slightly and develops a crust. The room’s scent will fill with comforting aromas, signaling the beautiful transformation of ingredients into a homestyle delight. After the first baking period, you will carefully add the reserved French fried onions to the top and return the dish to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, ensuring that it becomes beautifully crispy and golden brown.

Duration and conditions for the initial 25-minute bake

During the first 25 minutes of baking, the green bean casserole begins to heat through while allowing the flavors of the creamy mushroom soup, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper to meld beautifully. The baking environment should remain stable at the pre-set temperature of 350°F (175°C) to promote even cooking.

Key indicators for readiness during this phase include bubbles forming around the edges of the casserole and a slight firming of the overall texture. This initial bake serves not only to warm the ingredients but also to start the process of creating a savory depth, as the moisture from the soup and milk evaporates gradually.

Topping with Fried Onions

Techniques for sprinkling the reserved onions evenly

To achieve an even and appealing topping with fried onions, it’s important to sprinkle them gently over the surface of the casserole. Use a small handful of onions at a time and distribute them across the top from different angles. This method ensures that every bite will have a satisfying crunch of crispy onions, adding both texture and flavor contrasts.

Ensuring the topping gets crispy during the final bake

For the best results, reintroduce the casserole back into the oven without covering it after adding the fried onions. This allows the hot air to circulate freely and crisp the onions effectively. After placing it back in the oven, keep an eye on it, as every oven can vary slightly in heat distribution. The onions are properly crispy when they turn golden brown, giving the casserole that enticing, crunchy texture on top.

Second Baking Phase

Time and conditions for the final 10-minute bake

The second baking phase lasts 10 minutes, where the reserved French fried onions are layered over the top of the casserole. The casserole should remain uncovered to allow the hot air to dry out any moisture while ensuring the onions get crispy. It’s important not to exceed this baking time too much, as overly browned onions can develop a bitter taste.

Tips for achieving a perfectly golden-brown topping

For an even golden-brown layer of fried onions, rotate the casserole dish halfway through the second round of baking. This allows for even heat exposure, resulting in uniformity in the onions’ color. If desired, broil for an additional minute at the end of the bake to intensify the golden color, but keep the door cracked and watch closely to prevent burning.

Cooling and Serving

The best practices for cooling and serving the casserole for optimal flavor

Once removed from the oven, allow the casserole to sit for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This resting period is crucial for the casserole, as it allows the flavors to settle and the sauce to thicken slightly, resulting in a more cohesive bite. The dish will be easier to cut and serve, offering a more appealing presentation.

Recommended cooling duration for settling the flavors

Resting for around 5 minutes is usually sufficient, but allowing it to cool slightly longer may enhance the experience, letting the cheese set, if used, and the excess steam to escape without making the bottom too soggy.

Importance of allowing the dish to rest before serving

Allowing the casserole to rest before serving also assists in blending the various flavors present, including the umami richness from the soy sauce and the creaminess from the mushroom soup and milk. This moment ensures a balanced taste throughout each mouthful.

Serving Suggestions

Ideas for presentation, including using individual ramekins

For a charming presentation, consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins. This approach not only enhances the visual appeal but also makes it easy for guests to serve themselves. The ramekins can be garnished easily, adding a touch of personalization to each dish.

Garnishing options like freshly chopped parsley for color

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or even chives over the finished casserole can elevate the dish aesthetically, providing a hint of brightness and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, savory flavors of the green bean casserole.

Nutrition Information

An overview of the health aspects, highlighting the nutritional benefits of the ingredients used

While Paula Deen’s Savory Green Bean Casserole may be rich and indulgent, it also provides several nutritional benefits thanks to its main ingredient, green beans, and the use of dairy.

Caloric Breakdown

On average, a serving of this casserole may contain approximately 200-250 calories, though this can vary based on whether additional cheese is added. The layering of ingredients results in a comforting dish but mindful portioning can help maintain a balanced diet.

Benefits of Green Beans

Green beans are a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as dietary fiber. They contribute essential nutrients and antioxidants that can help with overall health, including supporting bone health and aiding digestion.

The Role of Dairy

Using whole or low-fat milk and optionally, cheddar cheese, adds calcium and protein to the dish. These dairy elements not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the overall nutrition, making the casserole a comforting yet wholesome choice.

Storage Tips

Advice on how to store leftovers or prepare the dish in advance

For optimal freshness and longevity, consider storing any leftovers in an airtight container or covering the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It’s best to transfer it to the refrigerator within two hours of serving to avoid any risk of bacterial growth.

Refrigeration

Best practices for storing casserole in the refrigerator

In the refrigerator, the green bean casserole can last for up to 3-4 days. For convenience, it’s recommended to store it in single-serve portions, allowing for quicker reheating and easier meal planning.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, typically about 15 to 20 minutes. If the topping starts to brown too much, cover it loosely with foil to retain moisture while preventing burning. Alternatively, microwave individual portions; just be mindful that the crispy onion topping won’t retain its texture.

Variations and Customizations

Ideas for modifying the recipe to suit different preferences or occasions

For those looking to modify the recipe, there are various substitutions and options to fit personal tastes and dietary preferences.

Vegetarian Alternatives

To cater to vegetarian diets, one may choose to replace the creamy mushroom soup with plant-based alternatives and consider dairy-free cheese options that suit texture and flavor without altering the fundamental elements.

Additional Ingredients

Incorporating other vegetables such as sliced carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers can add diverse textures and colors to the casserole, making it even more vibrant. For a protein boost, try adding cooked and crumbled sausage or chicken.

Pairing Suggestions

Recommendations for side dishes and mains that complement the casserole

To create a balanced meal, consider pairing the casserole with lighter sides and mains.

Ideal Side Dishes

Crunchy salads, like a fresh coleslaw or a simple green salad with vinaigrette, offer a refreshing contrast to the casserole’s richness. Roasted vegetables or a grain dish, such as quinoa or wild rice, can round out the meal beautifully.

Perfect Mains

Main courses such as roasted chicken, glazed ham, or beef brisket accompany the green bean casserole wonderfully, as their flavors complement the creamy, savory profile of the dish.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s savory green bean casserole offers a rich and creamy texture paired with crispy fried onions, making it a flavorful addition to any meal. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cooking time of 45 minutes, it’s an easy yet indulgent dish. Whether enjoyed during festive gatherings or a cozy family dinner, it promises delightful flavors and a satisfying experience.

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