What to eat with Green Bean Casserole: 32+ Best ideas - Munchyesta (2024)

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What to Eat with Green Bean Casserole: Perfect Pairings for Your Next Meal

Are you looking for the perfect side dish to serve with your green bean casserole? Look no further! There are plenty of delicious options that will complement this classic dish and take your meal to the next level. We’re talking easy green bean casserole, tender green beans, and over 32 delicious main dish and classic side dish ideas to serve for your next holiday meal, Thanksgiving dinner, or delicious everyday meals!

Green bean casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that come together in a harmonious symphony of deliciousness. First and foremost, the star of the show: the green beans! These vibrant and tender beauties bring a refreshing and crisp element to the dish. With their vibrant color and satisfying crunch, they add a burst of freshness that perfectly balances the other ingredients.

Now, let’s talk about the creamy, velvety goodness that envelops those green beans. The rich and savory mushroom sauce is like a comforting hug for your taste buds. Made with earthy mushrooms, aromatic onions, and a luscious sauce, it adds a luxurious and indulgent touch that’s simply irresistible.

And let’s not forget the crowning glory of green bean casserole: the crispy fried onions! These delightful golden-brown morsels bring a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor to every bite. With their savory and slightly sweet notes, they create a tantalizing contrast that takes the casserole to a whole new level of scrumptiousness.

Best Green bean casserole sides

But what truly makes green bean casserole so special is the nostalgia this great dish brings. It’s a dish that evokes fond memories of family gatherings, holiday feasts, and shared moments around the dinner table. It’s a timeless classic that never fails to bring smiles and satisfaction.

So, whether you’re enjoying green bean casserole on a cozy evening at home or sharing it with loved ones during a festive occasion, it’s a dish that brings joy, comfort, and a sense of togetherness. It’s a celebration of flavors, a symphony of textures, and a reminder of the simple pleasures in life.

Now, go ahead and savor the goodness of homemade green bean casserole with enthusiasm and delight with all your favorite side dishes! Bon appétit!

One popular choice is mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of the potatoes pairs well with the crispy green beans and savory mushroom sauce. Stuffing, cornbread, and rice are also great options that will add some variety to your meal. If you’re looking for something a little lighter, a shaved Brussels sprouts salad or roasted sweet potatoes might be just what you need.

Another great option is to serve a protein alongside your green bean casserole. Oven-roasted plant based tofu turkey breast with gravy is a classic pairing that will satisfy your taste buds. Baked mac and cheese or lentil loaf are also delicious options that will add some substance to your meal. No matter what you choose, there are plenty of great dishes that will complement your green bean casserole and make your meal a success.

In this green bean casserole recipe we’re covering

• History of green bean casserole
• Green bean casserole Serving suggestions for the holidays
• Vegetarian protein sides
• Vegetable sides
• 10 delicious vegan sides to serve with green bean casserole
• 10 tips and tricks to help you make the best vegan green bean casserole
• Green bean casserole double recipe
• Dairy free green bean casserole recipe
• Delicious sides and recipes to serve with green bean casserole
• What is the best vegan cheese for green bean casserole
• Best beans for making Green Bean Casserole
• How to heat up green bean casserole
• How to reheat green bean casserole in an air fryer
• FAQs

Green Bean Casserole: A Classic Dish

What is Green Bean Casserole?

Green Bean Casserole is a classic American dish that is usually served as a side dish during the holiday season. It is a casserole made with green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. Some recipes also include other ingredients like milk, soy sauce, cheese, or bacon bits.

History of Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a popular dish in American cuisine and is often associated with Thanksgiving and other holiday meals. Green Bean Casserole was first created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly, a home economist working for Campbell’s Soup Company. The original recipe was developed as a way to use two of Campbell’s most popular products at the time: cream of mushroom soup and canned green beans. The recipe was an instant hit and quickly became a staple on American dinner tables, especially during the holiday season.

The original green bean casserole recipe consisted of canned green beans, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and crispy fried onions on top. It quickly became a favorite and remains a classic dish in many American households.

While the specific origins of the green bean casserole are attributed to the Campbell Soup Company, it’s worth noting that green bean dishes have been a part of American cooking for a long time, with variations of green beans cooked with other ingredients dating back much further. However, the Campbell’s recipe helped popularize the specific combination of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy onions that we now associate with green bean casserole.

Over the years, the recipe has evolved and has been adapted by many home cooks and chefs. Some people have added their own twists to the classic recipe, such as using fresh green beans instead of canned or adding different types of cheese or seasonings.

Serving Suggestions

Green Bean Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of other dishes. Here are a few ideas you can serve with your next Christmas dinner, or Thanksgiving meal:

• Oven-roasted vegan turkey breast with gravy
• Delicious Tofu turkey roast
• Delicious Lentil loaf
• Celeriac Roast
• Grilled portobello mushrooms
• Oven-fried vegan chicken
• Vegan BBQ ribs
• Parmesan crusted roasted butternut squash
• Roasted Brussels sprouts salad

Mashed potatoes, stuffing, cornbread, and rice are also popular choices to serve with Green Bean Casserole.

In conclusion, Green Bean Casserole is a classic American dish that has been a favorite for generations. Whether you serve it during the holiday season or as a side dish any time of the year, it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Pairing Green Bean Casserole with Other Foods

When it comes to serving green bean casserole, it’s important to consider what other foods will complement the dish. Here are some ideas for pairing green bean casserole with other foods to create a delicious and well-rounded meal.

Protein Pairings

Green bean casserole is often served as a side dish, so it’s important to pair it with a protein to make it a complete meal. Here are some plant based protein options that go well with green bean casserole:

Vegan Turkey: Roasted plant based tofu turkey is a classic pairing with green bean casserole, especially during the holidays and a vegan turkey is a great plant based dish to serve with green bean casserole.

Plant based Ham: Vegan Baked ham with a brown sugar glaze is a sweet and savory option that pairs well with the creamy casserole.

Vegan Chicken: Oven-fried tofu chicken or grilled vegan chicken patties are both great options that add a crispy texture to the meal.

Lentil Loaf: For a vegetarian or vegan option, lentil loaf is a hearty and flavorful protein that complements the dish.

Starch Pairings

Starches are another important component to consider when pairing green bean casserole with other foods. Here are some starch options that go well with the dish:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with green bean casserole.

Stuffing: Stuffing is another traditional holiday dish that pairs well with the casserole.

Dinner Rolls: Soft and buttery dinner rolls are a great option for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Mac and Cheese: Baked mac and cheese is a comforting and indulgent side dish that complements the casserole.

Vegetable Pairings

Adding additional vegetables to the meal is a great way to increase the nutritional value and add some variety to the plate. Here are some vegetable options that pair well with green bean casserole:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts are a flavorful and healthy option that pairs well with the creamy traditional green bean casserole.

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms: Grilled portobello mushrooms add a meaty texture and earthy flavor to the meal.

Garlic Potatoes Au gratin: Oven Roasted potatoes au gratin with garlic and parmesan cheese are a delicious and nutritious option that complements the casserole.

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad: A light and refreshing salad with shaved Brussels sprouts, cranberries, and pecans is a great option for balancing out the heavier casserole.

By pairing green bean casserole with other foods, you can create a delicious and well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy. Consider these protein, starch, and vegetable options to find the perfect pairings for your next meal.

More of the best green bean casserole side ideas you can serve for a weeknight dinner or a classic holiday side dish:

Garlic Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes flavored with roasted garlic would complement the flavors of green bean casserole.

Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender glazed carrots salad provide a nice contrast to the savory taste of the casserole.

Kale and pomegranate salad: Delicious and crispy kale and pear salad seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper make a healthy and flavorful side dish alongside green bean casserole.

Cranberry Pear Pastry Cups: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, dried cranberries, and toasted walnuts, dressed with a light vinaigrette, can add a pop of color and freshness to the meal.

Waldorf salad: crispy apples, nutty crunchy walnuts and cooling creamy vegan sauce makes this a delicious side for any festive meal! It’s a great alternative to regular green salad.

10 delicious vegan sides to serve with green bean casserole

Here are 10 delicious vegan side dishes that you can serve with green bean casserole:

1. Delicious Greek Fennel Salad: Toss sliced fennel with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven until they are tender and slightly crispy along with tomatoes and chickpeas.

2. Sweet Potato Pie: Make a delicious rich Southern Sweet sweet potato pie, topped with a little vegan butter, salt, and cinnamon for a sweet and irresistible side dish.

3. Quinoa Salad: Make a refreshing quinoa salad with cooked quinoa, diced vegetables like cucumber and tomato, fresh herbs, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette.

4. Sautéed Garlic Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic, thyme, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a flavorful and earthy side dish. The rich flavor of the umami mushrooms brings out the best flavors in the casserole.

5. Stuffed Bunnernut Squash with figs: Roast butternut squash with a drizzle of maple syrup, olive oil, and a sprinkle of cinnamon until they are tender and caramelized.

6. Herb-Roasted Potatoes: Toss baby potatoes with olive oil, maple syrup, garlic, rosemary, and thyme, then roast them until golden and crispy.

More delicious sides

7. Stuffed pumpkin and couscous: Cook couscous and mix it with figs, orange zest, chopped almonds, vegan goats cheese and stuff halved pumpkins. Roast the stuffed pumpkins int the oven and serve with a citrus dressing for a festive and nutritious side dish.

8. Balsamic Roasted Vegetables: Roast a medley of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and Italian herbs for a flavorful and colorful addition.

9. Smashed Beets with Pesto: Steam or boil cauliflower until tender, then mash it with garlic, vegan butter, and seasonings for a creamy and low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.

10. Rainbow Slaw: Combine shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and radishes in a bowl. Toss with a tangy dressing made with vegan mayo, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup.

These vegan side dishes offer a variety of flavors, textures, and colors that can complement the rich and comforting flavors of green bean casserole. Feel free to mix and match to create a well-rounded meal.

10 tips and tricks to help you make the best vegan green bean casserole:

1. Use fresh green beans: Opt for fresh green beans instead of canned ones for a better texture and flavor. Trim and halve them before cooking.

2. Blanch the green beans: Before baking, blanch the green beans in boiling water for a few minutes and then transfer them to an ice bath to cool. This helps retain their vibrant color and ensures they cook evenly in the casserole.

3. Caramelize the onions: Take the time to properly caramelize the onions. This step adds depth and sweetness to the dish. Cook them slowly over medium heat until they turn golden brown.

4. Add garlic for flavor: Mince a couple of cloves of garlic and add them to the caramelized onions. Garlic enhances the overall taste of the casserole.

5. Make a flavorful sauce: Whisk together vegetable broth, non-dairy milk, and gluten-free flour to create a smooth sauce. The sauce should be seasoned well with herbs, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor.

6. Use gluten-free flour: If you need a gluten-free option, use a blend of gluten-free flours, such as rice flour, tapioca flour, and potato starch, to thicken the sauce.

7. Sprinkle nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor to the casserole. Sprinkle it into the sauce or mix it with the breadcrumbs for extra taste.

8. Choose gluten-free breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs made from a gluten-free bread of your choice. Alternatively, you can make your own by processing gluten-free bread until it forms fine crumbs.

9. Add herbs and spices: Enhance the flavor of the casserole with dried thyme, rosemary, or other herbs of your choice. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.

10. Let it rest before serving: After baking, allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This helps the flavors meld together, and it’s easier to handle when it’s not piping hot.

With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to making a delicious vegan green bean casserole! Enjoy!

Green bean casserole double recipe

Here’s a delicious recipe for a double batch of green bean casserole that your whole family is sure to enjoy.

Green Bean Casserole Double Recipe Ingredients:

• 4 cans (14.5 ounces each or 411 grams) green beans, drained
• 2 cans (10.5 ounces each or 298 grams) cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups (226 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (240 ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups (120 grams) French fried onions

Green Bean Casserole Double Recipe Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.

3. Add the drained green beans to the mixture and stir until the beans are evenly coated with the sauce.

4. Transfer the green bean mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

5. Sprinkle the French fried onions over the top of the casserole.

6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the onions are golden brown.

8. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

This double recipe should yield approximately 16 servings, depending on portion sizes. Enjoy your delicious green bean casserole!

Plant based Healthy Green Bean casserole recipe

Here’s a delicious vegan green bean casserole recipe that also includes gluten-free options:

Tip: For a quick plant based green bean casserole sauce you can use my dairy free cream of mushrooms soup

Vegan green bean casserole Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) unsweetened non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
• 3 tablespoons gluten-free all-purpose flour (you can use a blend of rice flour, tapioca flour, and potato starch)
• 1 cup (60 g) gluten-free breadcrumbs
• 5 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• Olive oil for cooking

How to make dairy free green bean casserole Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Steam or blanch the green beans until they are tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.

3. Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they become caramelized and golden brown. This will take about 10-15 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth, non-dairy milk, and gluten-free flour until well combined. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir well and cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.

5. Add the nutritional yeast, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

6. Place the steamed green beans in a baking dish and pour the sauce mixture over them. Toss gently to coat the green beans.

7. In a small bowl, combine the gluten-free breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil. Mix until the breadcrumbs are coated.

8. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the green beans.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumbs turn golden brown.

10. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious vegan and gluten-free green bean casserole!

Delicious sides and recipes to serve with green bean casserole

• Sesame roasted maple potatoes
• Jacket potatoes
• Mashed sweet potatoes
• Vegan scalloped potatoes

Delicious gravy to eat with green bean casserole

• Easy vegan gravy
• Vegan Bérnaise sauce
• The best plant based Whiskey Sauce

Bread to serve with green bean casserole

• Vegan garlic bread
• 1 hour focaccia
• Easy Yeastless naan bread

What is the best vegan cheese for green bean casserole

When it comes to choosing the best vegan cheese for green bean casserole, there are several options available that can provide a creamy and flavorful addition to the dish. Here are a few popular choices:

1. Miyoko’s Creamery: Miyoko’s makes a range of artisanal vegan cheeses, including mozzarella and cheddar-style options. Their cheese melts well and has a rich, tangy flavor.

2. Follow Your Heart: This brand offers a variety of vegan cheeses, including a shredded mozzarella and a cheddar alternative. Their cheeses are known for their good meltability and taste.

3. Violife: Violife produces a selection of vegan cheeses, including a cheddar-style cheese that works well in casseroles. It has a smooth texture and melts nicely.

4. Daiya: Daiya is a well-known brand that offers a range of vegan cheese alternatives. Their shredded mozzarella and cheddar-style cheeses are often used in casseroles and can provide a gooey, melty texture.

Ultimately, the choice of vegan cheese depends on personal preference, as different brands and flavors may appeal to different tastes. It’s worth experimenting with a few options to find the one that you enjoy the most in your green bean casserole.

Best beans for making Green Bean Casserole

When making green bean casserole, the traditional and most commonly used beans are green beans, also known as snap beans or string beans. These beans have a vibrant green color and a tender texture, making them an ideal choice for the casserole.

Fresh green beans are typically preferred, but you can also use frozen green beans if fresh ones are not available. Canned green beans can be used as well, although they may be slightly softer in texture.

If you’re looking to add some variety or experiment with different flavors, you could also consider using other types of beans in your green bean casserole. Here are a few options you might explore:

1. Wax Beans: These beans are similar in appearance to green beans but have a yellow or wax-like color. They have a slightly milder flavor compared to green beans but can be a tasty alternative.

2. Haricots Verts: Also known as French green beans, haricots verts are thinner and more tender than regular green beans. They have a delicate flavor and can add an elegant touch to your casserole.

3. Romano Beans: These flat and wide beans have a slightly sweeter flavor and a meaty texture. They can be a great choice for adding a unique twist to your green bean casserole.

While these alternative beans can offer interesting flavor variations, they may slightly alter the traditional taste and texture of the classic green bean casserole. It’s always a good idea to consider personal preferences and experiment to find the combination that suits your taste buds best.

How to heat up green bean casserole

To heat up green bean casserole, follow these steps:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat while you prepare the casserole.

2. Transfer the casserole: If the green bean casserole is in a microwave-safe dish, transfer it to an oven-safe baking dish. This will ensure even heating and a crispy topping.

3. Cover with foil: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the casserole from drying out during reheating.

4. Heat in the oven: Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through. The time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the casserole.

5. Remove the foil: Carefully remove the foil from the baking dish, taking care to avoid any steam that may have built up.

6. Crisp the topping (optional): If you prefer a crispy topping, you can place the uncovered casserole back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

7. Serve and enjoy: Once heated to your desired temperature, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve the delicious green bean casserole as a side dish or main course.

Note:

If you have leftover green bean casserole that has been refrigerated, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Stir the casserole between intervals to ensure even heating.

Remember to always check the internal temperature of the casserole to ensure it reaches a safe temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) before serving. Enjoy your warm and delicious green bean casserole!

How to reheat green bean casserole in an air fryer

Reheating green bean casserole in an air fryer is a great way to achieve a crispy and evenly heated result. Here’s a simple guide to help you:

1. Preheat the air fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to around 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to reheat the casserole.

2. Prepare the casserole: Take your leftover green bean casserole and transfer it into an oven-safe dish or a heat-resistant container that fits inside the air fryer basket. Make sure the dish is suitable for air frying.

3. Adjust the cooking time: Air fryers tend to heat up food quickly, so it’s important to adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking. As a general guideline, start with a shorter time than you would for traditional oven reheating methods.

4. Reheat in the air fryer: Place the dish with the green bean casserole into the preheated air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on it during the process to prevent burning or overcooking.

5. Check for doneness: After the initial cooking time, open the air fryer and check the casserole’s temperature and doneness. If it’s not heated through completely, you can continue cooking for an additional few minutes until it reaches the desired temperature. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can dry out.

6. Serve and enjoy: Once the green bean casserole is heated through and crispy on top, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Allow it to cool for a minute or two, then serve and enjoy!

Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the casserole, as well as the specific model of your air fryer. It’s always a good idea to monitor the process closely to achieve the desired results.

Can you microwave green bean casserole

Yes, you can microwave green bean casserole, although the texture may be slightly different compared to baking it in the oven. Here’s how you can microwave green bean casserole:

1. Transfer the green bean casserole into a microwave-safe dish. If you have any leftover crispy toppings, set them aside for now.

2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent to allow steam to escape.

3. Place the dish in the microwave and cook on high power for about 5 minutes.

4. Carefully remove the dish from the microwave and stir the casserole to distribute the heat evenly. If you have any leftover crispy toppings, sprinkle them on top at this stage.

5. Return the dish to the microwave and continue cooking on high power for another 3-5 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbling.

6. Once heated, carefully remove the dish from the microwave and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

It’s important to note that microwave cooking times can vary, so keep an eye on the casserole as it cooks to prevent overcooking or drying out. Enjoy your microwave green bean casserole!

How to reheat food in air fryer

To reheat food in an air fryer, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, usually around 350°F (175°C).

2. Place the leftover food in the air fryer basket or on the air fryer tray. Make sure to spread it out in a single layer for even heating.

3. If the food is dry or needs a little moisture, you can lightly spray it with oil or water to prevent it from drying out further.

4. Insert the basket or tray into the air fryer and set the timer for a shorter duration than the original cooking time. Start with 3-5 minutes for smaller portions or 5-10 minutes for larger portions.

5. During the reheating process, you can pause the air fryer and shake the basket or gently flip the food to ensure even heating.

6. Check the food’s internal temperature with a food thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe temperature. For most cooked leftovers, an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is recommended.

7. Once the food is thoroughly reheated and reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the air fryer.

8. Allow the food to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Remember that reheating times can vary depending on the type and quantity of food, so it’s essential to monitor the process and adjust the time accordingly. Enjoy your reheated food from the air fryer!

FAQs – Green bean casserole questions answered

Green bean casserole substitutions

Pets and green beans

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