This Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole takes the classic dish to a whole new level with the addition of cream cheese. It’s a flavorful, comforting side dish perfect for holiday feasts or even as a quick weeknight option. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser on the table in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of cream cheese and spices.
The crispy fried onion topping adds a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the smooth green bean mixture.
It’s versatile, allowing for easy ingredient swaps or additions to suit your preferences.
Great for special occasions or as a side for everyday meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 cups (about 2 cans or 1 lb fresh) green beans, drained if using canned, or blanched if using fresh
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or substitute with cream of chicken soup)
1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
1 cup (45 g) fried onion rings (store-bought or homemade)
Directions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
Combine the Green Beans:
Add the green beans to the saucepan and stir until they are well-coated with the cream cheese mixture.
Add the Cheese (Optional):
If using cheddar cheese, stir it into the mixture until melted and fully incorporated.
Transfer to the Baking Dish:
Pour the green bean mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Top with Fried Onions:
Sprinkle the fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake:
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the fried onions are golden brown.
Serve:
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6–8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
Add Crispy Bacon: Sprinkle crispy, crumbled bacon over the top before baking for a smoky flavor.
Make It Vegetarian: Use vegetable-based cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Boost Flavor with Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and depth.
Cheese Lovers’ Version: Mix in more cheese varieties like mozzarella or Parmesan for added cheesiness.
Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: Warm the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
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FAQs
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure the fried onions are also gluten-free.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole without the fried onions and refrigerate it. Add the onions and bake just before serving.
What can I use instead of fried onions?
You can substitute fried onions with bread crumbs, crushed crackers, or even crumbled potato chips for a different crunch.
Can I freeze this casserole?
While the cream cheese mixture may separate slightly upon thawing, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Is it possible to use frozen green beans?
Yes, thaw the green beans and pat them dry before using them in the recipe.
Conclusion
This easy cream cheese green bean casserole is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and crispy topping, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re serving it as a holiday side dish or for a cozy family dinner, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy the comforting goodness in every bite.
📖 Recipe:
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Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy cream cheese green bean casserole recipe elevates the classic dish with cream cheese for a rich and creamy flavor. Perfect for holiday gatherings or quick weeknight dinners, this comforting side dish is sure to please with its crispy fried onion topping and creamy green bean base.
Ingredients
4 cups green beans (canned, drained; fresh, blanched; or frozen, thawed and dried)
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup milk
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
1 cup fried onion rings (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a medium saucepan, heat cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
- Combine the green beans: Add green beans to the saucepan, stirring to coat evenly.
- Add cheese (optional): Mix in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Transfer to baking dish: Spread the green bean mixture evenly in the greased dish.
- Top with fried onions: Sprinkle fried onions over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbling and golden brown.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Use vegetable-based cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian option.
Add sautéed mushrooms or crispy bacon for extra flavor.
For a gluten-free version, ensure all ingredients, including fried onions, are certified gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6–8 servings
