If you’ve ever found yourself craving a cozy, creamy, and delightfully crispy side dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’re in for a treat with this Sour Cream Green Bean Casserole Recipe. This dish takes the classic green bean casserole you know and love, and elevates it with the rich tang of sour cream and the sharpness of cheddar cheese, balanced perfectly by the crispy golden onions on top. It’s comfort food at its finest—simple ingredients coming together to create a crowd-pleaser that’s just as perfect for weeknight dinners as it is for holiday feasts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about the Sour Cream Green Bean Casserole Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are. Each one plays a key role, adding flavor, creaminess, or crunch, making sure every bite is a joyful experience.
- Green beans: Fresh or trimmed, these provide the star vegetable component, giving the casserole its fresh, tender bites.
- Sour cream: Adds a wonderful creamy tang that makes the dish rich without being heavy.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Acts as the savory base that ties all the flavors together.
- French fried onions: These bring the iconic crunch and a little golden goodness on top.
- Garlic powder: Infuses subtle depth and warmth into the creamy sauce.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt: Balances the seasonings to make sure every bite is perfectly seasoned.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a gorgeous layer of cheesy richness that complements the tangy sour cream beautifully.
How to Make Sour Cream Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Having your oven at the right temperature is crucial for getting that perfect bubbly, golden finish on your casserole.
Step 2: Mix the creamy base
In a large bowl, combine the trimmed green beans, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. This mixture forms a luscious, creamy base that envelops each green bean in flavor.
Step 3: Transfer to a baking dish
Pour the creamy green bean mixture into a greased or lightly buttered baking dish, spreading it evenly. This sets the stage for the casserole to cook uniformly.
Step 4: Add cheese and onions
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by a generous layer of French fried onions. These toppings invite that irresistible cheesy melt and crispy crunch that everyone loves.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbly, the cheese is melted, and the onions turn a golden brown, adding an enticing aroma to your kitchen.
How to Serve Sour Cream Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can brighten this creamy dish. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives provides a pop of color and a subtle fresh flavor contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats like turkey or chicken, making it a fantastic accompaniment to your holiday table or Sunday dinner. It also complements hearty mains such as meatloaf or grilled steaks perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress your guests, serve this casserole in individual ramekins topped with extra crispy fried onions right before serving. Alternatively, layering it in a clear glass baking dish shows off the creamy layers and golden topping, making it visually irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover Sour Cream Green Bean Casserole Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days while retaining its creamy texture and flavor.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Just avoid adding the French fried onions before freezing; instead, sprinkle them on top before baking after thawing. Wrap the dish tightly with foil and freezer-safe wrap, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. Add fresh French fried onions on top in the last 5 minutes for maximum crunchiness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans offer a brighter flavor and firmer texture, but just make sure they’re trimmed and lightly blanched first to keep the casserole’s cooking time consistent.
Is there a substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer, you can use cream of chicken or celery soup for a slightly different flavor, or even make your own creamy mushroom sauce from scratch for a fresher taste.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by swapping sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and choosing a vegan cheddar cheese, you can create a delicious dairy-free version without sacrificing creaminess.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and substitute the French fried onions with gluten-free crispy onions or toasted gluten-free breadcrumbs for that essential crunch.
What’s the best way to get the crispy topping just right?
The key is to add the French fried onions on top before baking so they toast as the casserole cooks. For an extra crispy finish, you can broil the top for 1-2 minutes at the end, just watch it carefully to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
This Sour Cream Green Bean Casserole Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feel like an instant classic every time you make it. It’s creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor, yet so simple to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a family dinner or preparing a festive spread, this casserole is sure to bring smiles and requests for seconds. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite go-to sides!
Print
Sour Cream Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sour Cream Green Bean Casserole is a creamy and comforting side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Combining tender green beans with a luscious sour cream and mushroom soup base, topped with cheddar cheese and crispy French fried onions, it delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup French fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the trimmed green beans, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixed green bean mixture into a casserole or baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture, followed by an even layer of French fried onions to provide a crispy topping.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped onions or mushrooms to the green bean mixture.
- Using fresh green beans gives a better texture than canned, but frozen green beans can also be used–just thaw beforehand.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a cheese blend depending on your preference.
- Ensure that the French fried onions are added just before baking to keep them crispy.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time; assemble it and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
