Green Bean Stuffing Casserole Recipe
Picture golden-brown crispy edges peeking from a bubbling casserole dish, promising comfort and flavor. You'll want to master this green bean stuffing casserole that transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping side dish. Whether you're preparing for a holiday feast or craving a hearty weeknight meal, this recipe will become your secret weapon. The combination of tender green beans, creamy soup, and crunchy topping creates a culinary experience that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Recipe Highlights
- Green Bean Stuffing Casserole combines green beans, cream of mushroom soup, stuffing mix, and crispy fried onions in a classic holiday side dish.
- Preheat oven to 350°F, mix cream of mushroom soup with chicken broth, and fold in drained green beans to create the base mixture.
- Transfer the green bean and soup mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- Top the casserole with prepared stuffing mix, then drizzle 4 tablespoons of melted butter across the surface for added flavor and crispiness.
- Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through, serving as a delicious side dish.
History
Although green bean casserole has become a quintessential American holiday dish, its origins trace back to the mid-20th century kitchen innovations of Campbell Soup Company.
In 1955, Dorcas Reilly, a culinary test kitchen supervisor, crafted the original recipe while working to develop convenient, delicious meal solutions.
You'll find her groundbreaking creation revolutionized home cooking by combining simple, affordable ingredients:
- Canned green beans
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Crispy fried onions
The recipe quickly spread through:
- Newspaper publications
- Recipe card networks
- Word-of-mouth sharing
You might be surprised to learn that the dish became a Thanksgiving staple almost accidentally.
Home cooks appreciated its:
- Easy preparation
- Affordable ingredients
- Crowd-pleasing flavor profile
Recipe
Green bean stuffing casserole is a delightful side dish that combines the rich, comforting flavors of traditional stuffing with the bright, fresh taste of green beans. This easy-to-prepare casserole transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners.
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. By combining herb-seasoned stuffing mix, green beans, and a creamy mushroom sauce, home cooks can create a memorable side dish that complements a wide variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (6 oz) herb-seasoned stuffing mix
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) green beans, drained
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth until smooth and well combined. Gently fold in the drained green beans and half of the stuffing mix, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining stuffing mix over the top, then drizzle the melted butter evenly across the surface. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is heated through.
For the best results, avoid overcooking the casserole, which can make the green beans mushy. Consider crushing the stuffing mix slightly before adding it to create a more uniform texture. If the mixture seems dry before baking, add an extra 1/4 cup of broth.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven at 325°F until warm.
Cooking Steps
You'll start by whisking the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth together in a large mixing bowl until they're completely smooth and integrated.
Next, gently fold in your drained green beans and half of the stuffing mix, being careful not to crush the ingredients too much during mixing.
Transfer this creamy, herb-studded mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, then top with the remaining stuffing mix and drizzle melted butter over the surface for a golden, crispy finish.
Step 1. Combine Soup and Broth
When you're ready to build the flavor foundation for your green bean stuffing casserole, grab a large mixing bowl and start combining the cream of mushroom soup with chicken broth.
Whisk these ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a smooth, well-integrated base that'll add depth and richness to your dish. You'll want to create a consistent texture without any lumps, so take your time and stir carefully.
- Use a 1 cup measure of chicken broth
- Pour slowly into the cream of mushroom soup
- Whisk in smooth, circular motions
- Look for a creamy, uniform consistency
The goal is a silky liquid that'll perfectly coat your green beans and stuffing mix, creating a delectable, moisture-rich casserole that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Step 2. Add Green Beans
Because the soup and broth mixture provides a perfect creamy base, it's time to introduce the green beans to your casserole.
Drain the canned green beans thoroughly, shaking off excess liquid to prevent a watery texture. You'll want to add the entire two 14.5 oz cans directly into your soup and broth mixture, gently folding them in with a spatula to ensure even distribution.
The goal is a uniform coating where each green bean gets nestled in the creamy sauce. Stir carefully to avoid breaking the beans, maintaining their structural integrity.
The mixture should look glossy and well-integrated, with green beans suspended evenly throughout the liquid base. This step creates the foundational flavor and moisture for your delicious casserole.
Step 3. Transfer Mixture to Dish
Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with a light cooking spray or butter, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
Make sure to coat the bottom and sides thoroughly, creating a smooth surface for your casserole.
Carefully transfer the green bean and stuffing mixture into the prepared dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
Aim for a uniform layer about 1-2 inches thick, which will help ensure consistent cooking and texture.
Press the mixture gently to eliminate any air pockets, creating a compact, cohesive base.
- Use a rubber spatula for smooth transfer
- Distribute mixture evenly across the dish
- Smooth the top with gentle, even pressure
- Check for consistent depth throughout
Step 4. Top With Stuffing Mix
After mixing the green bean and soup base, it's time to add the remaining stuffing mix as a delectable topping.
You'll want to sprinkle the rest of the stuffing mix evenly across the surface, creating a uniform golden-brown layer that'll crisp beautifully during baking.
Gently distribute the mix using a spatula or spoon, ensuring complete coverage of the green bean mixture underneath.
Press down lightly to help the stuffing settle, but don't compact it too firmly. The goal is a light, airy texture that'll provide a satisfying crunch when baked.
Be sure to cover the entire casserole, leaving no bare spots, which will help create that irresistible crispy topping everyone loves in a great casserole.
Step 5. Drizzle Melted Butter on Top
Lavish your green bean stuffing casserole with a golden touch by drizzling melted butter across the top. Use 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melting it completely in a microwave-safe dish or small saucepan.
Work systematically, moving your spoon or spatula in sweeping, even motions to distribute the butter uniformly across the stuffing mix layer. The butter's rich, golden liquid will seep into the dry stuffing crumbs, creating a crisp, luxurious surface with beautiful golden-brown edges.
Aim for complete coverage, ensuring each corner and crevice receives a light buttery glaze. This final step transforms your casserole from simple to spectacular, adding depth of flavor and a professional-quality finish that elevates the entire dish, promising a deliciously crisp and succulent result.
Final Thoughts
This five-ingredient green bean stuffing casserole represents an effortless yet delicious solution for home cooks seeking a quick and satisfying side dish.
You'll find the recipe adaptable to various holiday meals, offering both convenience and comfort. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: minimal ingredients, straightforward preparation, and a guaranteed crowd-pleasing result.
Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned kitchen pro, you can master this casserole with ease. Key tips to remember include:
- Don't overcook the green beans
- Ensure even butter distribution
- Watch for golden-brown topping
- Adjust liquid if the mixture seems dry
Your final presentation will be a warm, inviting side that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience.
