Introduction
Creamy, comforting, and perfectly classic — this Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is your stress-free solution for holidays and family dinners. 🥰 With tender green beans, a rich mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions on top, it delivers that beloved Thanksgiving flavor without the oven hassle. Using a slow cooker keeps the dish warm for hours, making it perfect for potlucks and buffets.
Fun fact: Green bean casserole was invented in 1955 by Campbell’s test kitchen — and today, over 20 million U.S. families serve it each holiday season. This slow-cooked version makes it even easier (and creamier!) to enjoy.
Ingredients List
🥫 Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen green beans (trimmed or cut)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra richness)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions (divided)
Timing
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2–3 hours on LOW or 1½ hours on HIGH
- Total Time: ~3 hours
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
Step 2: Add Green Beans
Add the green beans and half of the crispy fried onions to the mixture. Stir well until evenly coated.
Step 3: Transfer to the Crockpot
Lightly grease your slow cooker with butter or cooking spray. Pour the green bean mixture inside and spread evenly.
Step 4: Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours or HIGH for 1½ hours, until the green beans are tender and the sauce is bubbly.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Leave the lid slightly ajar so they stay crisp.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Serve directly from the crockpot for a cozy, no-fuss holiday side dish!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
Tips for the Best Crockpot Green Bean Casserole
- Don’t overcook: The beans should stay tender, not mushy.
- Use fresh beans for more texture — blanch before adding if desired.
- Keep the lid cracked during the last few minutes to prevent sogginess.
- Customize the flavor: Add cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or a dash of soy sauce for depth.
Healthier Alternatives
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soup and omit added salt.
- Vegan: Replace the soup with a dairy-free mushroom sauce and use almond milk + vegan fried onions.
- Keto-Friendly: Use heavy cream and homemade low-carb fried onions.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free soup and onion toppings.
Serving Suggestions
- The perfect Thanksgiving or Christmas side dish.
- Pairs wonderfully with roast turkey, ham, or mashed potatoes.
- Add as a side to grilled chicken or steak dinners year-round.
- Double the recipe for large gatherings — it reheats beautifully!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding all fried onions early: They’ll lose their crunch.
- Using too much liquid: Stick to the recipe ratios for perfect creaminess.
- Forgetting to grease the crockpot: Prevents sticking and burning.
- Skipping seasoning: The soup base needs a flavor boost — garlic and pepper are key!
Storing Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (without fried onions).
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or crockpot until hot, then top with fresh crispy onions before serving.
Conclusion
Rich, creamy, and irresistibly comforting — this Crockpot Green Bean Casserole is the ultimate no-fail side dish. 💚✨ Whether for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or Sunday dinners, it combines nostalgic flavor with modern convenience. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic — comfort food has never been easier!
FAQs
1. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything except the topping, store in the fridge overnight, and cook the next day.
2. Can I use canned green beans?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time to 1 hour since they’re already soft.
3. How do I keep it warm for serving?
Leave it on the “Warm” setting for up to 2 hours.
4. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely — just use a 6-quart slow cooker and add 30 minutes to the cook time.
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