If you’re craving a hearty, comforting side dish that feels both indulgent and fresh, this Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. With tender green beans enveloped in a rich, creamy mix of smooth cream cheese and savory mushroom soup, plus that irresistible crunch of fried onion rings on top, it’s a timeless crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday table, this casserole delivers layers of flavor and texture in every bite, making it a new favorite you’ll turn to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe keeps it simple with ingredients that are pantry staples yet come together for a wonderfully creamy, flavorful dish. Each component serves a purpose, whether it’s the creamy texture from cream cheese, the savory depth from the soup, or the satisfying crispiness of those fried onions on top.
- 4 cups green beans: Fresh, canned, or frozen, these green beans add vibrant color and a satisfying bite to the casserole.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup: Acts as the savory, creamy base that brings everything together with a comforting mushroom flavor.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds luxurious creaminess and a slight tang that makes the sauce velvety and rich.
- 1/2 cup milk: Thins the sauce just right for coating every green bean perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Brings a mild, aromatic boost without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Enhances the savory profile, complementing the cream cheese and soup beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Gives an extra cheesy, melty layer for those who want a bit more indulgence.
- 1 cup fried onion rings: Provides that signature crispy, golden topping that makes every bite exciting.
How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to make sure your casserole doesn’t stick and slides out beautifully once baked.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the softened cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This rich base is what makes the casserole irresistibly luscious.
Step 3: Coat the Green Beans
Add your green beans to the creamy mixture and stir well to ensure every bean is evenly coated. This step infuses the beans with all those comforting flavors you’re craving.
Step 4: Add Cheese (If Using)
If you’re a cheese lover, stir in that shredded cheddar now. Watch it melt seamlessly into the sauce, upping the richness and flavor depth of the casserole.
Step 5: Transfer and Top
Pour the creamy green bean mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Then sprinkle the fried onion rings generously over the top to create that iconic crispy finish.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You want it bubbly around the edges and the onion topping perfectly golden and crunchy. This transformation is what makes this Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe so irresistible.
Step 7: Let it Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, give it a few minutes to cool slightly—it’s easy to dig in right away, but letting it settle helps the flavors meld and prevents any burned tongues!
How to Serve Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While the fried onions provide a fabulous crunch, you can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color and fresh herbal notes. They brighten the richness and make the presentation pop for your guests.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats like turkey or chicken, especially during holiday feasts. For a vegetarian spread, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or hearty bread to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform this classic into individual servings by baking the casserole in ramekins. It makes for charming personal portions that are perfect for entertaining or gifting during the holidays. You can also layer in some cooked bacon bits or swap in panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter instead of fried onion rings for a creative crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors mellow wonderfully overnight, making for an even tastier next-day side.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, just thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding extra time if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the topping is crisp again, usually about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions but note the crispy onions may lose some crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh green beans for this casserole?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans, blanched until tender but still crisp, provide a wonderful texture and vibrant color that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Is the cream of mushroom soup necessary?
The cream of mushroom soup is key to the classic rich, savory flavor and creamy texture. You can substitute cream of chicken soup if preferred, but avoiding it altogether will change the dish significantly.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free or vegan?
While this particular Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe relies on dairy for its signature creaminess, you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based soups to create a vegan-friendly version.
What can I use instead of fried onion rings?
If you want to skip the fried onions, toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crispy shallots make excellent crunchy alternatives, adding texture without losing the appeal.
How can I make this recipe ahead for a holiday meal?
Prepare everything up to spreading the mixture in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Add the fried onions just before baking for the freshest crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe is one of those magical dishes that’s both simple to make and deeply satisfying. It feels indulgent yet wholesome, making it the perfect side for any occasion where comfort food is called for. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and see just how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Cream Cheese Green Bean Casserole is a creamy, comforting side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Combining tender green beans with a rich mixture of cream cheese, mushroom soup, and cheddar cheese, then topped with crispy fried onions, it’s a flavorful twist on a classic casserole that’s quick and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Green Beans
- 4 cups green beans (canned, drained; fresh, blanched; or frozen, thawed and dried)
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 cup fried onion rings (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prepare it for the casserole.
- Prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the softened cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Combine the green beans: Add the drained or prepared green beans into the saucepan with the creamy mixture, stirring gently to coat the beans evenly.
- Add cheese (optional): Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese into the green bean mixture until the cheese is melted and incorporated.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour and spread the green bean mixture evenly into the prepared 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Top with fried onions: Sprinkle the fried onion rings evenly over the top of the green bean mixture to create a crispy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For fresher flavor, blanch fresh green beans instead of using canned or frozen.
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup if preferred.
- Omit the cheddar cheese for a milder casserole or use a different cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a variation.
- Use homemade fried onions for a crispier, less processed topping.
- Let the casserole rest a few minutes before serving to avoid burns and help it set.
