Crockpot Green Bean Casserole

This Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is the epitome of comforting home-cooked meals. The creamy soup base, melted cheese, and crispy fried onions combine beautifully with tender green beans for a dish that’s hard to resist. It’s the perfect side dish to complement any holiday dinner or weeknight meal. The slow cooker does all the work, so you can focus on the main course!

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, this casserole is a surefire crowd-pleaser. The combination of flavors and textures – from the creamy base to the crispy topping – makes every bite irresistible. It’s easy to make, customizable, and will surely become a family favorite.

Full Recipe:

2 cans (14.5 oz each) green beans, drained
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 cup crispy fried onions

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

In the slow cooker, combine the green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the green beans are tender and heated through.
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.

Once the cheese has melted, top the casserole with crispy fried onions and cook for an additional 10 minutes.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 3 hours | Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 215 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

History and Origin

Green Bean Casserole has a surprisingly humble origin. It was created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly, a home economist working for the Campbell Soup Company. The original recipe was designed to be an easy, convenient way to prepare a vegetable side dish using the company’s cream of mushroom soup. The recipe was featured in a promotional campaign and quickly gained popularity across America. Over time, it became a staple on holiday dinner tables, especially for Thanksgiving.

What makes this casserole so iconic is its simplicity and use of pantry staples. The combination of green beans and mushroom soup was not only affordable but also easy to prepare for busy families. The dish’s popularity grew, thanks in part to Campbell’s marketing efforts, and it became synonymous with holiday feasts. Over the years, variations of the dish have emerged, but the basic recipe remains a comfort food classic.

Interestingly, while this casserole is strongly associated with American cuisine, its ingredients are commonly found in many cultures. For instance, green beans are a staple vegetable in various European and Asian cuisines, and mushrooms are equally revered for their earthy flavors. This versatility has helped solidify Green Bean Casserole as a dish that transcends regions and cultures, albeit with some variations in preparation.

Variations and Adaptations

While the traditional Green Bean Casserole recipe remains popular, there are numerous ways to adapt it to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, and regional influences.

Vegan and Dairy-Free Version: For those avoiding dairy or following a plant-based diet, swapping the cream of mushroom soup with a vegan alternative made from coconut milk or cashews is a great option. Additionally, dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast can replace the cheddar cheese, while the crispy fried onions can often be found in vegan varieties.

Low-Carb or Keto Version: For a lower-carb option, you can replace the canned mushroom soup with a homemade mushroom sauce made with almond milk and a thickening agent like xanthan gum. You could also reduce the number of fried onions or replace them with homemade low-carb crispy toppings like crushed pork rinds or almond flour-based breadcrumbs.
Southern Twist: In the southern United States, green bean casseroles often feature a crunchy topping made from crushed crackers, such as Ritz or Saltines. Some even add bacon to the casserole, adding a salty, smoky flavor that complements the creamy beans.
Cheesy Variations: While the classic recipe includes some cheddar cheese, many variations include more cheese for a richer, more decadent casserole. Gruyère, Parmesan, or a blend of cheeses can elevate the flavor profile and create a more indulgent dish.

Asian-Inspired: You can also give this dish a fun twist by adding soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to create a more Asian-inspired casserole. Top with crispy shallots or toasted sesame seeds instead of fried onions for a unique take.

These variations ensure that whether you’re looking for a gluten-free, low-carb, or even a meatless version of this dish, there’s a way to adapt it to meet your needs.

Nutritional Information

While Green Bean Casserole is undeniably delicious, it’s important to consider its nutritional profile. The standard recipe, which includes cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, and fried onions, is relatively high in calories and fat. However, it also provides some nutritional benefits.

Calories: A typical serving of Crockpot Green Bean Casserole contains around 215 kcal.

Fat: With ingredients like cheese and fried onions, each serving can contain approximately 14 grams of fat, including saturated fat.
Protein: The green beans and cheese offer some protein, about 6 grams per serving.
Carbohydrates: Each serving typically contains about 20 grams of carbs, most of which come from the green beans and soup.

Fiber: Green beans provide a decent amount of dietary fiber, approximately 3 grams per serving, contributing to digestive health.
Micronutrients: Green beans are a good source of Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and folate. Additionally, mushrooms (often in the form of soup) offer minerals such as potassium and selenium.

While the dish is comforting and filling, those seeking a lower-calorie version can reduce the cheese or substitute the cream of mushroom soup for a healthier homemade version. You can also opt for less fried onions or use a lighter topping alternative to lower the overall fat content.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is best served as a side dish to a hearty main course. It pairs beautifully with classic holiday dishes like roast turkey, glazed ham, or prime rib. It also complements roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad, balancing out the richness of the main course.

For a more casual meal, serve the casserole alongside grilled chicken or pork chops for a comforting, weeknight dinner. A crispy baguette or warm dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce, and a side of cranberry sauce or apple chutney adds a touch of sweetness to balance the dish’s savory flavors.

To complete the meal, a light white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the richness of the casserole. For non-alcoholic options, a refreshing iced tea or a lemon-infused sparkling water works great.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Use Fresh Green Beans: While canned green beans are commonly used, fresh green beans offer a better texture and flavor. If you use fresh beans, blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before adding them to the slow cooker. This will help them retain their vibrant color and prevent them from becoming too mushy.
Layer the Ingredients: To ensure even cooking, layer the ingredients properly in your crockpot. Start with the green beans at the bottom, then add the creamy soup mixture, and top with cheese. This will help the cheese melt evenly and prevent it from clumping together.

Make it Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the dish the night before, cover, and refrigerate it. On the day you plan to serve it, just pop it in the slow cooker and let it cook while you focus on other tasks.
Experiment with Toppings: While fried onions are traditional, don’t be afraid to get creative. Try adding crushed crackers, homemade breadcrumbs, or even crispy bacon bits on top for added flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcook: Since you’re using a slow cooker, be mindful not to overcook the casserole. Once the green beans are tender, it’s time to serve! Overcooking can cause the beans to lose their color and become mushy.

Potential Health Benefits

The main ingredients in Crockpot Green Bean Casserole bring several health benefits. Green beans are rich in vitamins, particularly Vitamin K and Vitamin C, which are crucial for bone health and immune function. The fiber content in green beans also supports digestive health and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. Mushrooms, often a key component in the casserole, contain antioxidants like selenium that support the immune system and reduce inflammation.

In moderation, this dish can be part of a balanced diet, offering some essential nutrients. However, the richness of the sauce and fried onions means it’s best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a regular side dish.

Conclusion

Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a tradition that brings comfort, warmth, and a sense of togetherness to any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this dish will surely satisfy your cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds. The versatility of the recipe allows for numerous adaptations, making it easy to customize to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. So, next time you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish, give this casserole a try – it’s bound to become a new favorite!