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A close-up of a bubbling hot Southern Green Bean Casserole, showcasing its crispy fried onion topping.

BEST Southern Green Bean Casserole

This Southern Green Bean Casserole elevates the classic dish with fresh green beans, a homemade cream sauce, and crispy fried onions both inside and on top. Optional bacon and cheddar cheese add even more flavor to this foolproof holiday side dish, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped or cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 6 ounces crispy fried onions, divided
  • 4-6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled optional
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large bowl
  • Paper towels
  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Whisk
  • Spoon
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-5 minutes, until they're crisp-tender.
  2. Immediately transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
  3. Drain the green beans thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
  4. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
  5. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms (roux).
  6. Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth, a little at a time, until the roux is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
  7. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency.
  8. Stir in the soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  9. In a large bowl, combine the blanched green beans, cream sauce, half of the crispy fried onions, and crumbled bacon (if using). Gently toss to combine. If using cheddar cheese, add half of it to the mixture.
  10. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  11. Sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions and remaining cheddar cheese (if using) evenly over the top of the casserole.
  12. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
  13. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Don't overcook the green beans. Use high-quality crispy fried onions. Toast the fried onions for more flavor. Add a dash of hot sauce for a kick. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, adding the onions right before baking. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months.