Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole

Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole is a comforting and delicious side dish perfect for any gathering. This recipe combines fresh green beans, savory mushrooms, and rich cheddar cheese, making it a standout at holiday feasts or family dinners. Its creamy texture and crispy topping will delight everyone at the table, ensuring that this casserole becomes a cherished favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easily customizable: You can use fresh, frozen, or canned green beans, depending on what you have on hand.
• Quick prep time: With just 15 minutes of preparation, you can have this dish ready to bake in no time.
• Crowd-pleaser: The delicious combination of flavors appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great choice for gatherings.
• Comfort food classic: This casserole embodies the essence of home-cooked goodness that everyone loves.
• Make ahead option: Prepare it in advance and bake just before serving for added convenience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Large skillet
• Casserole dish (1 1/2 quart)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Ideal for boiling green beans evenly without overcrowding.
• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing onions and mushrooms to enhance their flavors before combining them with other ingredients.
• Casserole dish: A must-have for baking the casserole evenly while allowing the top to brown beautifully.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to whip up Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole:

• 2 cups green beans (fresh, frozen, or canned (use 2 cans, drained))
• 3 cups chicken broth (skip if using canned green beans)
• 2 1/2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (1 small can)
• 2.8 ounces french fried onions, divided (About 1 1/2 cups)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (more or less, to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

How to Make Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans

In a large saucepan:
* Bring 3 cups chicken broth to a boil.
* Add the green beans and cook for about 10 minutes. For softer beans similar to canned ones, extend boiling to 20 minutes. Skip this step if using canned green beans.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Mushrooms

In a large skillet:
* Melt the butter over medium heat.
* Add diced onions and sliced mushrooms.
* Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until soft. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In the skillet or a mixing bowl:
* Stir together cream of mushroom soup with sautéed onions and mushrooms.
* Add cooked green beans, garlic powder, black pepper, half of the crispy onions, and half of the cheese.
* Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish:
* Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until it is hot and bubbling.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Topping

After baking:
* Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and french fried onions on top.
* Return to oven for an additional 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Enjoy Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole as part of your next meal! It’s sure to impress with its delightful flavors and comforting textures.

How to Serve Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole

This creamy and flavorful casserole is perfect for any occasion, especially during holidays or family gatherings. Here are some great ways to serve it.

Pair with a Protein

• Roasted Chicken: The savory flavor of roasted chicken complements the richness of the casserole.
• Grilled Turkey: A light and juicy grilled turkey adds a nice contrast to the creamy texture of the green bean dish.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing provides a refreshing balance to the warm casserole.
• Garden Salad: A mix of seasonal vegetables tossed in a light vinaigrette can enhance your meal.

Enjoy with Bread

• Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce from the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this rich side dish.

How to Perfect Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole

To make sure your green bean casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green beans and quality cheese will enhance both flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before baking; you can add more garlic powder or pepper according to your preference.
• Crispy Topping: For extra crunch, add more fried onions just before serving to keep them crispy.
• Bake Evenly: Ensure your oven is preheated properly to guarantee even cooking throughout the casserole.

Best Side Dishes for Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole

If you’re looking for complementary side dishes to serve alongside Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole, here are some fantastic options.

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that pairs well with the casserole.
2. Cornbread: Sweet and moist cornbread adds a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
3. Sweet Potato Casserole: The sweetness of this dish balances nicely with the savory green beans.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that enhances any holiday table.
5. Stuffing: A flavorful stuffing can complement the creamy casserole while adding heartiness to your meal.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus brings freshness and an elegant touch to your dinner spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using Old Beans: Freshness matters. Always use fresh, frozen, or properly drained canned green beans for the best taste.
• Skipping the Sauté: Don’t skip sautéing the onions and mushrooms. This step enhances the overall flavor of your casserole.
• Overcooking Green Beans: Be careful with boiling time. Overcooked green beans can become mushy, so stick to the recommended cooking times.
• Neglecting Cheese Distribution: Don’t just add cheese on top. Mixing it into the casserole ensures an even cheesy goodness throughout.
• Forgetting Seasoning: Ensure you season well. Adjust garlic powder and black pepper according to your taste preferences for a flavorful dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The casserole will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole

• Freeze in a tightly sealed container or freezer-safe bag.
• It can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole that may help you as you prepare this delicious side dish.

What is Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole?

Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole is a rich and creamy side dish made with green beans, sautéed mushrooms, onions, and topped with crispy fried onions and cheddar cheese.

Can I make Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it but skip baking until you’re ready to serve.

What variations can I try for Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole?

Feel free to customize by adding ingredients like bell peppers, different types of cheese, or even croutons for added crunch.

How do I know when Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole is done?

The casserole is done when it is hot and bubbling around the edges, typically after about 20-25 minutes of baking.

Final Thoughts

Paula Deen’s Southern Green Bean Casserole is not only a comforting holiday classic but also versatile enough for any gathering. Its creamy texture combined with crispy toppings makes it irresistible. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables or cheeses to make this dish your own!