Crockpot Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Green bean casserole is a beloved holiday side dish, but what if you could take it to the next level by cooking it effortlessly in your crockpot? This crockpot green bean casserole recipe brings the same creamy, savory flavors to your table with the added convenience of slow cooking. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe ensures that you’ll have a tasty and crowd-pleasing dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Keep reading to discover how you can make this delicious crockpot version of green bean casserole for your next family gathering or potluck.

this Recipe

What is a Crockpot Green Bean Casserole?

Crockpot green bean casserole is a slow-cooked version of the classic green bean casserole. This dish is typically made with green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and crispy fried onions, resulting in a creamy and savory dish that pairs perfectly with holiday meals. By cooking it in a crockpot, you allow the flavors to meld together slowly, making the dish even more delicious and easy to prepare. It’s a perfect side for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special gathering.

Ingredients List for Crockpot Green Bean Casserole

To make a mouthwatering crockpot green bean casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 cups frozen cut green beans, thawed (about 2 pounds): These are the star of the show, offering that fresh, slightly crunchy texture once cooked.
• 21 ounces of condensed cream of mushroom soup (2 cans): The base of the casserole that gives it a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• 1 cup milk: This adds creaminess and thins out the soup slightly, making the casserole smooth and easy to mix.
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce: This enhances the savory flavor of the casserole and gives it a slight umami kick.
• ¾ teaspoon black pepper: For seasoning and a hint of spice to balance the richness.
• ¼ teaspoon seasoned salt (or to taste): Adds just the right amount of seasoning to the dish, adjusting for personal preference.
• 3 cups crispy fried onions, divided: These bring a satisfying crunch and flavor to the casserole, used both in the casserole mixture and as a topping.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best parts about crockpot green bean casserole is how easily you can customize it. If you're out of certain ingredients or simply want to change things up, here are some substitutions and variations:

1. Fresh or Canned Green Beans: Instead of frozen, you can use fresh green beans for a crisper texture or canned green beans for a softer, more tender bite.
2. Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup: If you're not a fan of mushroom soup, swap it for condensed cream of chicken or even cream of celery for a different flavor profile.
3. Almond Milk or Heavy Cream: For a dairy-free option, substitute regular milk with almond milk or another non-dairy milk. Alternatively, for an even richer casserole, use heavy cream instead of milk.
4. Add Cheese: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese or parmesan for a cheesy twist on the classic casserole.
5. Garlic and Herbs: To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
6. Bacon: Crumble cooked bacon into the casserole for added flavor and a smoky element.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a perfect crockpot green bean casserole:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by thawing your frozen green beans. You can place them in the refrigerator overnight or leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. Drain any excess water.
2. Mix the Base: In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and seasoned salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole in the Crockpot: Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot to prevent sticking. Add the thawed green beans and pour the soup mixture over them. Stir to coat the green beans evenly with the creamy sauce.
4. Add Crispy Fried Onions: Stir in about 1 cup of the crispy fried onions, mixing them into the green beans and sauce. This ensures some of the onions get incorporated into the casserole for extra flavor and texture.
5. Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours, or until the green beans are tender, and the casserole is heated through. If you're in a hurry, you can cook on high for 2-3 hours.
6. Finish with Crispy Onions: About 10-15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions on top of the casserole. Replace the lid and let the onions warm up, becoming golden and crunchy.

How to Cook Crockpot Green Bean Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Step 1: Thaw and drain your green beans.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and seasoned salt.
3. Step 3: Place the green beans into your crockpot and pour the soup mixture over the top. Stir well.
4. Step 4: Stir 1 cup of crispy fried onions into the mixture.
5. Step 5: Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
6. Step 6: Add the remaining crispy fried onions on top 10-15 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Thawing the Green Beans: If you don't thaw the green beans, they may release too much water into the casserole, making it watery.
2. Overcooking: Be careful not to cook the casserole for too long, as it can make the green beans mushy.
3. Skipping the Crispy Onion Topping: The crispy fried onions on top are a signature part of green bean casserole, adding texture and flavor. Don’t skip this step!
4. Using Too Much Liquid: Stick to the ingredient measurements. Adding too much milk or soup can result in a soupy consistency.
5. Not Stirring the Onions in: Adding some crispy onions to the base of the casserole ensures they soften and infuse flavor throughout the dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A crockpot green bean casserole is a great dish for serving large groups, but how you present it can make all the difference. Consider these serving ideas:

1. Family Style: Serve the casserole directly from the crockpot, allowing guests to help themselves. Keep the crockpot on the “warm” setting to maintain the dish’s temperature throughout the meal.
2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: For a pop of color and added flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the casserole before serving.
3. Serve with Traditional Holiday Sides: Pair this casserole with other classic holiday sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, or cranberry sauce for a complete meal.
4. Use a Stylish Serving Dish: Transfer the casserole to a large serving dish and top with fresh crispy onions for a more elegant presentation.

How to Serve Crockpot Green Bean Casserole

• Holiday Dinners: This dish pairs perfectly with turkey, ham, or roast beef.
• Potluck-Friendly: Because it’s cooked in a crockpot, it’s easy to transport and keeps warm for gatherings.
• Everyday Family Meals: You don’t need to wait for the holidays! Serve crockpot green bean casserole alongside chicken, pork chops, or any hearty main dish.

Presentation Ideas for Crockpot Green Bean Casserole

1. Rustic Charm: Serve the casserole in the crockpot with a large spoon for an easy, laid-back meal.
2. Elegant Dish: Transfer the casserole to a deep ceramic or glass serving dish, then add a layer of fresh onions and herbs on top.
3. Mini Casseroles: For individual servings, you can bake the casserole in small ramekins and top each with its own portion of crispy fried onions.

Crockpot Green Bean Casserole Recipe Tips

1. Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the casserole ingredients in advance and store in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, transfer to the crockpot and cook.
2. Doubling the Recipe: If you’re cooking for a large crowd, you can easily double this recipe. Just be sure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.
3. Leftovers: Crockpot green bean casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make crockpot green bean casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, store it in the fridge, and cook it the next day in the crockpot.

2. Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh green beans will give the casserole a bit more texture. Be sure to trim and blanch them before adding to the crockpot.

3. What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

If you don’t like cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead.

4. Can I add cheese to this casserole?

Yes! Adding shredded cheddar cheese is a great way to change up the flavor and make the casserole even richer.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover green bean casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This crockpot green bean casserole recipe is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a classic holiday dish with minimal effort. With a simple ingredient list and slow cooking process, you can focus on spending time with your loved ones while the crockpot does all the work. Plus, the option to customize and adjust the recipe to your liking makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or preparing a weeknight meal, this crockpot green bean casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Happy cooking!

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