Introduction to Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole
When comfort food cravings hit, there's something undeniable about Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole. This classic dish marries the crispness of fresh green beans with a rich, creamy mushroom sauce, topped generously with crispy French fried onions. It's the kind of dish that not only warms the heart but also becomes the star of your dinner table, making it a…
What makes Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole a crowd-pleaser?
So, what is it about Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole that has everyone talking? For starters, it’s the perfect blend of flavor and texture. The savory chicken broth bath enhances the green beans, keeping them tender yet crunchy. Meanwhile, sautéed onions and garlic add a depth of flavor, combined with the creaminess of the mushroom soup. Let’s not forget the cheesy goodness and that satisfying crispy topping!
This casserole isn’t just delicious; it’s also versatile. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or a weekday meal, it's bound to impress. Did you know that casseroles have been a staple in American kitchens for decades? They make meal prep easy and allow you to experiment with different ingredients without any fuss. For a twist, consider adding some Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham for an extra savory touch that complements the dish beautifully.
So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to be a family favorite!
Ingredients for Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole
If you're looking for a comforting dish that combines rich flavors with easy preparation, look no further than Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole. This crowd-pleaser is perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Let’s dive into the delightful ingredients you’ll need to create this heartwarming recipe.
Essential Ingredients
- 15 ounce can chicken broth: This adds a depth of flavor to your beans.
- 4 cups green beans: Trimmed to 2-inch pieces, ensuring they cook evenly.
- 3 Tablespoons butter: Salted butter works best for a rich taste.
- ½ cup finely chopped onions: These fragrant gems enhance the overall flavor.
- 1-2 teaspoons minced garlic: For that wonderful savory kick.
- 10 ounce can cream of mushroom soup: The creamy base that binds everything together.
- ⅓ cup milk: To achieve the perfect creamy texture.
- 1 ½ cups french fried onions: Feel free to add more if you love that crunch!
- ½ cup grated cheddar cheese: Extra cheesy goodness never hurt anyone!
Seasoning
Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to taste to bring all the flavors together.
Gather these ingredients, and you'll be well on your way to crafting Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole. This delightful dish is not only easy to make but also sure to impress anyone who takes a bite! If you're ever in need of more cooking tips, check out The Spruce Eats for expert advice and fantastic recipes.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole
Making Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole is a delightful experience that blends comforting flavors with effortless preparation. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process!
Gather and prepare your ingredients
Before you begin, ensure you have everything ready. For this casserole, you’ll need:
- 15-ounce can of chicken broth
- 4 cups green beans, trimmed to 2-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons butter (salted for flavor)
- ½ cup finely chopped onions
- 1-2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 10-ounce can of cream of mushroom soup
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 ½ cups French fried onions (plus extra if you love that crunch!)
- ½ cup grated cheddar cheese (and feel free to add more if you like)
Once you’ve got your ingredients, preheat your oven to 350°F and butter a 1 ½-quart casserole dish.
Parboil the green beans for perfect texture
Next, let’s get those green beans in prime condition. Heat the chicken broth in a skillet over medium heat. Add your green beans and allow them to simmer for about 7 minutes or until they become tender-crisp. This method enhances the flavor and keeps them from getting mushy in the oven. If you prefer, feel free to use water instead of broth, but the broth really does amp up the taste! After simmering, drain any excess liquid and transfer your beans to the casserole dish.
Sauté onions and garlic to enhance flavor
In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add in the chopped onions and sauté them for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften. Next, stir in 1-2 teaspoons of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute or two until fragrant. This step adds a delightful depth to your casserole and makes the whole kitchen smell amazing!
Create the creamy mushroom sauce
Now, it’s time to whip up the sauce that brings everything together. To your onion and garlic mixture, add the cream of mushroom soup and the milk. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes while stirring—it should be nice and creamy. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. This is your chance to customize it to your liking! Pour this velvety mixture into the casserole dish, and stir in half a cup of cheese and half a cup of French fried onions.
Combine all ingredients in the casserole dish
Now that everything is prepped, spread it all out evenly in your casserole dish. Make sure the green beans are nicely coated in that creamy mushroom sauce. This creates the perfect base for the wonderful flavors that will mingle in the oven.
Bake and add the finishing touches
Cover your casserole with aluminum foil and bake it in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, give it a stir, and here’s the fun part: sprinkle the remaining cup of French fried onions on top, adding even more texture and crunch. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until the green beans are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
And there you have it! A comforting, delicious serving of Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole that’s sure to please anyone at your table! What’s your favorite side dish for festive occasions? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Variations on Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole
Southern Style with Added Spices
To give Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole a Southern twist, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for that extra kick. Mixing in some diced jalapeños can also provide a delightful heat. Don’t forget seasoned breadcrumbs to the top for a crunchy finish—perfect for those who love a little more texture!
Vegetarian Option with Extra Vegetables
For a wholesome vegetarian variation, swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth and add an assortment of veggies like bell peppers, grated carrots, or even some sautéed mushrooms. Layering different textures not only enhances the flavor but also makes it more filling. Check out this great guide for tips on how to incorporate more veggies into your meals!
Remember, each twist not only honors the original recipe but also brings a new flair to your holiday table. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole
When preparing Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole, here are some friendly tips to elevate your dish!
- Prep Ahead: If you know you’ll be busy on meal day, consider making this ahead. Just leave out the fried onions and cheese until you’re ready to bake, minimizing morning stress.
- Flavor Enhancements: For a hint of extra flavor, sauté some sliced mushrooms with the onions. Not only does it enhance the taste, but it also adds great texture!
- Quick Alternatives: Short on time? You can skip the step of simmering fresh beans and opt for two cans of green beans instead.
For more culinary tips, check out this guide on preparing green beans or explore substitutes for cream of mushroom soup if you're feeling adventurous!
Serving Suggestions for Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole
Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole is a fantastic dish that shines during holiday gatherings or family dinners. Serve it hot alongside a protein like turkey bacon or chicken ham for a comforting meal. You could also pair it with mashed potatoes and gravy, making for a warm, hearty plate that delights everyone.
For a lighter touch, consider serving it with a crisp garden salad and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. And don’t hesitate to sprinkle some additional French fried onions on top for extra crunch! Exploring sides like roasted carrots or a warm bread roll can also elevate the dining experience. Want to experiment with flavors? A splash of balsamic vinegar can add a lovely zing!
For more tips on enhancing your meals, check out this great article on side dishes that complement casseroles.
Time Breakdown for Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole
Preparation time
Gather your ingredients and prep work will take about 15 minutes. This includes chopping onions and measuring everything out.
Cooking time
The actual cooking time will be around 30 minutes. This includes parboiling the green beans, sautéing the vegetables, baking, and perfecting those crunchy onions.
Total time
In total, from start to finish, you’re looking at about 45 minutes to enjoy this delicious side dish. Perfect timing for a cozy family dinner or holiday gathering!
Want to dig deeper into the beauty of casserole dishes? Check out this informative article for more inspiration!
Nutritional Facts for Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole
When delighting in Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole, it’s helpful to be aware of its nutritional profile. Here are the key stats to keep in mind:
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories. This makes it a great side dish that won’t break your calorie bank.
Protein
With around 3 grams of protein per serving, this casserole can complement your meal nicely, especially when paired with a protein-rich main dish.
Sodium
Be mindful of sodium content, as each serving has roughly 600 milligrams. You can adjust this by using low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier twist.
For more information on balanced diets and healthier cooking methods, check out the USDA's dietary guidelines. Enjoy a delicious dish while maintaining your health!
FAQ about Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole up to a day in advance. Simply mix everything into your casserole dish, but skip the fried onions and cheese for now. Cover it tightly with foil and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just add the cheese and fried onions on top before popping it in the oven.
What can I use as a substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you need a substitution for cream of mushroom soup, don’t worry! You can use homemade versions, such as a mix of sour cream, milk, and sautéed mushrooms. Alternatively, any cream soup, like cream of chicken, can work as well.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is simple. Just place any remaining casserole in a covered container and refrigerate it. This dish will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider reheating in the oven for the best taste and texture!
For more tips and variations, you can check out the full recipe here.
Conclusion on Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole
In summary, Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that elevates any meal. Its blend of savory flavors—from the cream of mushroom soup to the crispy fried onions—creates a heartwarming experience. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, it's a recipe you'll want to revisit time and again. Enjoy!
Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole
Equipment
- Casserole dish
- skillet
Ingredients
- 15 ounce chicken broth
- 4 cups green beans trimmed to 2-inch pieces
- 3 Tablespoons butter salted, used
- ½ cup finely chopped onions
- 1-2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 10 ounce cream of mushroom
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 ½ cups french fried onions divided (more if desired)
- ½ cup grated cheddar cheese more if desired
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter a 1 ½ quart casserole dish.
- Heat 15 ounces chicken broth in a skillet over medium-heat. Add 4 cups fresh green beans and simmer for 7 minutes until tender crisp. Drain extra liquid and dump into casserole dish.
- Add 3 Tablespoons butter and ½ cup chopped onions to skillet. Cook for 3 minutes. Then stir 1-2 teaspoons garlic and cook an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Add 10 ounces cream of mushroom soup and ⅓ cup milk. Let simmer a minute or two. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Pour mixture into the casserole dish. Mix in ½ cup cheese and ½ cup fried onions.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Stir and then add the remaining 1 cup fried onions to the top. Bake an additional 10 minutes, or until green beans are tender.
Leave a Reply