Green bean casserole is a timeless classic that brings comfort and nostalgia to any meal. Using Durkee’s crispy fried onions adds that perfect crunch and savory flavor that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary. It’s a simple recipe that delivers big on taste and is perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
We love how this casserole combines tender green beans with a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with those iconic Durkee onions that crisp up beautifully in the oven. It’s quick to prepare and uses pantry staples, making it an easy go-to side dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re a casserole veteran or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Durkee Onion Green Bean Casserole, we rely on simple pantry staples enhanced by the iconic crispy fried onions. Below you will find all the essentials broken down into key components for easy preparation.
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or canned green beans, drained if canned
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – this classic base creates the creamy mushroom sauce
- 1/2 cup whole milk – adds smooth richness to the sauce
- 1 cup Durkee’s crispy fried onions – the star ingredient for that signature crunch
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional) – for a richer flavor and gooey texture
Additional Seasonings and Toppings
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – to balance and enhance the flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – adds subtle depth to the mushroom sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – adjust based on taste and whether canned beans are used
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – used to toast and brown the topping for extra crispiness
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Green beans | 4 cups | Fresh or canned, base vegetable |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | Creamy mushroom sauce base |
| Whole milk | 1/2 cup | Smooth texture and richness |
| Durkee’s crispy fried onions | 1 cup | Signature crunchy topping |
| Shredded sharp cheddar cheese | 1 cup (optional) | Adds richness and meltiness |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Flavor balance |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon | Depth of flavor |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Seasoning, adjust as needed |
| Unsalted butter, melted | 2 tablespoons | Toasting topping |
By combining these ingredients thoughtfully, we bring together a classic green bean casserole that’s creamy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor. Let’s move on to the preparation steps to build this nostalgic favorite.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Durkee Onion Green Bean Casserole, having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and optimal results. Below is a detailed list of what we need:
- Baking dish: Use a 9×13-inch casserole dish to accommodate the green beans, mushroom sauce, and crispy onions evenly.
- Mixing bowls: At least one large bowl for combining the green beans, soup, and seasonings.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements guarantee the right balance of flavors and textures.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients thoroughly without damaging the green beans.
- Saucepan: To gently heat the milk and melt butter for the creamy sauce base.
- Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot casserole dish when placing it in or removing it from the oven.
- Colander: Handy for draining canned or fresh green beans after washing or blanching.
- Grater (optional): If adding shredded sharp cheddar cheese, a grater will be useful.
We recommend confirming your equipment setup before starting to ensure an efficient cooking process.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 9×13-inch baking dish | Holds and bakes the casserole evenly | Glass or ceramic preferred |
| Mixing bowls | Combines ingredients | Large size preferred |
| Measuring cups & spoons | Measures liquids and seasonings precisely | Essential for accuracy |
| Wooden spoon/spatula | Mixes ingredients gently | Avoids mashing green beans |
| Saucepan | Warms milk and melts butter | Medium size |
| Oven mitts | Protect hands when handling hot dishes | Safety first |
| Colander | Drains green beans | Useful for fresh or canned green beans |
| Grater (optional) | Shreds cheese for topping | Optional based on recipe variation |
Using this equipment helps us maintain the signature creaminess of the sauce and the crispy texture of Durkee’s fried onions, enhancing the overall flavor and presentation of our green bean casserole.
Prep Work
Before we begin assembling our Durkee Onion Green Bean Casserole, proper Prep Work ensures every layer contributes to the dish’s creamy texture and crunchy finish. Let’s start by preparing the green beans and the iconic Durkee onion topping.
Preparing the Green Beans
Whether using fresh or canned green beans, the goal is to achieve tender yet firm beans that absorb the creamy mushroom sauce.
- Fresh Green Beans:
- Rinse 4 cups of fresh green beans under cold water.
- Trim the ends and cut each bean into 1½-inch pieces.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the beans for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain in a colander and immediately transfer to an ice water bath to stop cooking and retain color. Drain thoroughly before use.
- Canned Green Beans:
- Drain and rinse 4 cups of canned green beans to remove excess sodium and canning liquid.
- Pat dry with paper towels to remove moisture that could dilute the sauce.
| Green Beans Preparation | Fresh Green Beans | Canned Green Beans |
|---|---|---|
| Quantity | 4 cups | 4 cups |
| Preparation Steps | Rinse, trim ends, cut, blanch 3-4 mins, ice bath, drain | Drain, rinse, pat dry |
Preparing the Durkee Onion Topping
Durkee’s crispy fried onions are the signature crunch that elevates this casserole. Toasting them lightly will enhance their flavor and prevent sogginess.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread 1½ cups of Durkee crispy fried onions evenly on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of melted unsalted butter over the onions to add richness and help crisp them evenly.
- Toss gently to coat all onions.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. Remove when golden brown and crisp.
Toasting the onions beforehand ensures their bold flavor and crunchy texture remain distinct even after baking in the casserole. We recommend reserving about ½ cup of these toasted onions for the casserole topping and mixing the rest into the casserole itself, enhancing every bite.
By carefully prepping the green beans and toasting Durkee’s crispy fried onions, we lay the foundation for a perfectly balanced green bean casserole bursting with flavor and texture.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create a perfectly balanced Durkee Onion Green Bean Casserole with creamy richness and crispy topping.
Making the Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup and 1 cup of whole milk.
- Stir the mixture over medium heat until it becomes smooth and begins to gently simmer.
- Add seasoning: ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder.
- Cook and stir for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, then remove from heat.
- Optional: Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese for extra flavor.
Combining Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, place 4 cups of prepared green beans (either blanched fresh or drained canned).
- Pour the warm mushroom sauce over the green beans.
- Mix gently but thoroughly using a wooden spoon or spatula, ensuring every bean is coated with the creamy sauce.
- Reserve 1 cup of the toasted Durkee crispy fried onions for the topping.
- Add the remaining fried onions to the green bean mixture and blend evenly.
Baking the Casserole
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Pour the green bean and sauce mixture into the baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle the reserved toasted Durkee crispy fried onions evenly across the top.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the onions turn golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sauce Preparation | Medium heat | 3-5 minutes | Stir continuously until thickened |
| Baking | 350°F | 25-30 minutes | Top with reserved fried onions |
| Resting | Room temp | 5 minutes | Allows flavors to set and meld |
This method guarantees a creamy texture beneath a crispy Durkee onion topping, highlighting the iconic flavor and crunch that defines our classic green bean casserole.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Durkee Onion Green Bean Casserole experience, we recommend pairing it with complementary dishes that balance its creamy texture and crispy topping. Here are some tried-and-true serving ideas to complete your meal:
- Classic Roast Turkey or Baked Chicken
The savory flavors of roasted poultry create a perfect harmony with the rich mushroom sauce and crunchy onions of our casserole. Serve alongside cranberry sauce for a traditional festive plate.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic amplify the comfort-food appeal and soak up any extra sauce from the casserole.
- Fresh Dinner Rolls or Cornbread
Soft, warm bread provides a pleasant contrast in texture and is ideal for mopping up the creamy sauce.
- Light Salad with Vinaigrette
A crisp, tangy salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterbalance to the casserole’s richness.
Here is a suggested plate setup to inspire your serving presentation:
| Component | Serving Size | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durkee Onion Green Bean Casserole | 1 cup per person | Creamy, savory, slightly sweet | Crispy topping, tender beans |
| Roast Turkey or Baked Chicken | 4-6 oz per person | Savory, herb-infused | Juicy, firm |
| Garlic Mashed Potatoes | ½ cup per person | Buttery, garlicky | Smooth, fluffy |
| Fresh Dinner Rolls or Cornbread | 1 roll per person | Mildly sweet or savory | Soft, tender |
| Mixed Green Salad | 1 cup per person | Fresh, tangy | Crisp |
To serve our casserole at its best, we recommend baking it just before mealtime to maintain the crispy Durkee fried onion topping. If you need to prepare ahead, reheat the casserole uncovered in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore the crunch.
For an added flavor boost, sprinkle extra Durkee crispy onions on top right before serving. This small touch ensures every bite delivers the iconic crunch and familiar deliciousness.
Make-Ahead Tips
To ensure our Durkee Onion Green Bean Casserole shines at our gatherings, preparing it ahead offers convenience without sacrificing flavor or texture. Here are our top make-ahead strategies:
1. Assemble the Casserole in Advance
We can prepare the casserole fully up to the baking stage. After combining the green beans with the creamy mushroom sauce and folding in a portion of toasted Durkee’s crispy fried onions, cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Keep the rest of the toasted Durkee onions separate to add just before baking.
- This prevents the topping from becoming soggy and preserves its signature crispness.
2. Reheating and Baking
When ready to serve, remove the casserole from the refrigerator while preheating the oven to 350°F. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then sprinkle the reserved Durkee onions evenly over the top, drizzle with melted butter for extra crunch, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the onions turn golden brown and crispy.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bake covered | 350°F | 20 minutes | Heat casserole through |
| Add Durkee onions | 350°F | 10-15 minutes | Crisp and brown topping |
3. Prepping the Durkee Onion Topping Ahead
We can toast the Durkee onions with melted unsalted butter a day before, letting them cool completely before storing in an airtight container at room temperature. This boosts their flavor and guarantees a crunchy, buttery finish.
4. Freezing the Casserole
For longer storage, freeze the assembled casserole (without topping) in a freezer-safe dish. Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- Add fresh toasted Durkee onions topping during the final bake step.
Important Reminders
Always allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving and enhanced flavor melding.
By following these make-ahead tips, we get to enjoy the delicious Durkee Onion Green Bean Casserole with ease, perfect for busy days and memorable holiday feasts.
Storage and Reheating
To keep our Durkee Onion Green Bean Casserole fresh and delicious, proper storage and reheating are essential. Here are the best practices to maintain the iconic creaminess and crispy topping.
Storing the Casserole
- Cool Completely: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation that can make the topping soggy.
- Separate Onion Topping: Store the toasted Durkee crispy fried onions separately in an airtight container to preserve their crunch.
- Refrigeration: Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing Option: For longer storage, wrap the casserole especially well with a double layer of foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep the fried onions separate until ready to bake.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating requires attention to texture, especially for the crispy fried onion topping.
| Step | Instructions | Temperature & Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat oven and cover casserole with foil to keep moisture. | 325°F (163°C) for 20-25 minutes |
| 2 | Remove foil, evenly sprinkle reserved Durkee onions on top. | – |
| 3 | Bake uncovered to toast onions until golden and crunchy. | 350°F (177°C) for 5-7 minutes |
| 4 | Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. | – |
Pro Tip: If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for even warming.
Additional Tips for Optimal Results
- Toasting Onions Ahead: Toast the Durkee onions a day ahead to enhance flavor and keep them crisp during storage.
- Avoid Microwave Reheating: Microwaving softens the crunchy topping, so oven reheating is preferred.
- Rest Time After Baking: Allowing the casserole to rest after heating makes serving easier and lets the flavors blend beautifully.
By following these steps, we ensure our Durkee Onion Green Bean Casserole stays creamy inside with that signature crispy topping, making every bite satisfying and true to the classic.
Conclusion
Durkee Onion Green Bean Casserole is a timeless dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. With its perfect balance of creamy sauce and crispy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and customize. Whether for holiday feasts or weeknight dinners, this recipe fits seamlessly into our cooking routine.
By using simple ingredients and following a straightforward process, we can consistently create a casserole that delights every time. Keeping the onions crispy and the sauce rich ensures that each bite is satisfying. This classic side dish remains a reliable favorite that never goes out of style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Durkee’s crispy fried onions special for green bean casserole?
Durkee’s crispy fried onions add a unique crunch and rich flavor that enhances the classic green bean casserole, making the topping crispy and delicious.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned for the casserole?
Yes, fresh green beans can be used. Rinse, trim, blanch, and cool them to achieve the perfect tender texture before assembling the casserole.
What ingredients are essential for making the green bean casserole?
Key ingredients include green beans, cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, Durkee’s crispy fried onions, melted butter, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
How do I prepare the crispy onion topping to avoid sogginess?
Toast Durkee’s crispy fried onions with melted butter before adding them on top. This boosts flavor and keeps the topping crisp during baking.
What kitchen tools do I need to make the casserole?
A 9×13-inch baking dish, mixing bowls, measuring spoons and cups, a wooden spoon or spatula, a saucepan, oven mitts, and a colander are essential for preparation.
How long and at what temperature should I bake the casserole?
Bake the assembled casserole at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until it’s creamy and the Durkee onions are golden and crispy.
Can I prepare the green bean casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it, keeping the toasted onions separate. Add onions just before baking to preserve their crunch.
What are good side dishes to serve with green bean casserole?
Classic roast turkey or baked chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, fresh dinner rolls or cornbread, and a light vinaigrette salad complement the casserole well.
How should I store leftovers to maintain freshness and crunch?
Cool the casserole completely, store it in the refrigerator with the onion topping separate, and reheat with onions added at the end for maximum crispness.