Decadent Creamy Green Bean Bake
This Decadent Creamy Green Bean Bake is my upgraded take on the classic green bean casserole. Instead of the traditional ingredients, I incorporate cream cheese for an extra creamy texture and richness that's simply irresistible. Perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners, this dish is a crowd-pleaser and a standout side that pairs beautifully with any main course. With a delightful crunch from the French-fried onions and a savory flavor profile, it's comforting and satisfying. Best of all, it's easy to adapt according to your needs, whether you're making it for a large crowd or just for yourself. Don't underestimate the deliciousness of leftovers; they make for a fantastic lunch the next day!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
French style green beans
3 (cans (11 ounces each), drained)
Cream cheese
4 (ounces, softened to room temperature)
French-fried onions
1 (cup, divided)
Cream of chicken soup
1 (can (10.5 ounces))
Salt
to taste
Pepper
to taste
Garlic powder
1 (pinch)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or an equivalent size that is slightly smaller than a 9x13 pan.
2
Thoroughly drain the French style green beans to ensure that your casserole isn't watery.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained green beans, softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, a pinch of garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined and the cream cheese is fully incorporated.
4
Gently fold in 1/2 cup of the French-fried onions into the mixture for added crunch and flavor.
5
Transfer the green bean mixture into the prepared baking dish and cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and give the casserole a good stir to evenly distribute the ingredients.
7
Sprinkle the remaining French-fried onions over the top of the casserole, then return it to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
8
Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Creamy Green Bean Bake?
It is an upgraded version of the classic green bean casserole that incorporates cream cheese for extra richness and a creamy texture.
What are the main ingredients for this bake?
The main ingredients include French style green beans, cream cheese, French-fried onions, and cream of chicken soup.
How many cans of green beans are needed?
You will need three 11-ounce cans of French style green beans.
Should I drain the green beans before using them?
Yes, thoroughly drain the beans to ensure the casserole does not become watery.
How much cream cheese is required?
The recipe calls for 4 ounces of cream cheese.
Does the cream cheese need to be softened?
Yes, softening the cream cheese to room temperature ensures it incorporates fully into the mixture.
What type of soup is used in this recipe?
This recipe uses one 10.5-ounce can of cream of chicken soup.
How many French-fried onions are needed in total?
You will need 1 cup of French-fried onions, which will be divided for use in the recipe.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
What size baking dish should I use?
A 9x9-inch baking dish or an equivalent size slightly smaller than a 9x13 pan is recommended.
Should I grease the baking dish?
Yes, grease the baking dish before adding the green bean mixture.
What seasonings are added to the mixture?
The mixture is seasoned with a pinch of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
How many onions go inside the casserole mixture?
You fold 1/2 cup of the French-fried onions into the green bean mixture.
Do I need to cover the dish while baking?
Yes, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil during the first 25 minutes of baking.
Why is aluminum foil used during baking?
The foil prevents the casserole from browning excessively during the initial stage of cooking.
How long is the initial baking time?
The casserole should bake for approximately 25 minutes with the foil cover.
What should I do after the first 25 minutes of baking?
Remove the foil and give the casserole a good stir to distribute the ingredients evenly.
When do I add the remaining French-fried onions?
The remaining onions are sprinkled on top after the initial 25 minutes of baking and stirring.
How long is the final baking stage?
Bake uncovered for an additional 20 to 30 minutes after adding the top layer of onions.
How do I know when the bake is finished?
The casserole is done when it is bubbly and the onion topping is golden brown.
How long should the dish cool before serving?
Allow the casserole to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe provides approximately 6 servings.
Is this recipe suitable for holidays?
Yes, it is a standout side dish perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners.
Can I use leftovers for lunch?
Absolutely, the leftovers make a fantastic and delicious lunch the following day.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It has a savory flavor profile with a creamy texture and a delightful crunch.
Is this recipe easy to adapt?
Yes, it is easy to adapt for larger crowds or smaller individual portions.
What main courses go well with this side?
It pairs beautifully with almost any main course, especially roasted meats.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of powder?
While the recipe calls for garlic powder, you can adapt it with fresh garlic if preferred.
Does the recipe use French style or regular green beans?
The recipe specifically calls for French style green beans.
Is this a comfort food recipe?
Yes, it is designed as a comforting and satisfying side dish.