This Green Bean Casserole with Potatoes is a comforting dish full of tasty flavors. It’s creamy and topped with crispy bits that make every bite special. Plus, it’s quick to whip up!
The best part? You can use fresh or canned green beans! I love it during the holidays, and leftovers (if there are any!) are great for lunch the next day. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans give the best taste and texture, but canned beans are a fantastic shortcut. Just remember to drain them well if you choose canned!
Potatoes: I often use russet potatoes for their creaminess. However, you can swap in Yukon Golds for a buttery flavor or even use sweet potatoes for a twist.
Onion: A yellow onion works nicely for sweetness, but if you’re in a pinch, try shallots or even green onions for a different flavor. Onion powder can also serve as an alternative.
Cheese: Cheddar adds creamy, melty goodness, but feel free to use mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese if needed. Alternatively, skip it for a lighter dish.
Fried Onions: Store-bought crispy fried onions make life easy, but homemade versions add a personal touch. Just thinly slice an onion, coat it in flour, and fry until golden!
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole Is Creamy?
To get that creamy texture, focus on your sauce! Start by cooking flour with butter to make a roux; this helps thicken your sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps.
- Cook the sauce until it thickens nicely, usually about 3-5 minutes.
- Don’t forget to season as you go! Salt, pepper, and garlic powder boost the flavor.
- If using cheese, add it off the heat so it melts smoothly into the sauce.
The Green Bean Casserole With Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (or 2 cans green beans, drained)
- 3 cups peeled and cubed potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)
- 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Green Bean Casserole with Potatoes will take about 15-20 minutes to prep and 35-40 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 1 hour from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy meal or a holiday gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your casserole.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
In a pot, add peeled and cubed potatoes to salted boiling water. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until they’re tender but still hold their shape. Drain and set them aside. Remember, you want them soft but not mushy!
3. Prepare the Green Beans:
If you’re using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and slightly tender. Then, drain them. If you’re using canned green beans, just drain them super well and set them aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. This helps thicken your sauce!
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Slowly whisk in the milk, continuing to cook until the sauce thickens up nicely, roughly 3-5 minutes. Don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, and the garlic powder for extra flavor.
6. Combine and Mix:
Once your sauce is smooth, take it off the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese if you’re using it until it melts into the sauce. Then, in a mixing bowl, combine the cooked potatoes and green beans, and pour the sauce over them. Gently mix to coat everything evenly.
7. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Bake the Casserole:
Put the casserole in the oven and bake it uncovered for 25 minutes. After that time, sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top, then return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is creamy, comforting, and a wonderful addition to any meal! Enjoy every bite of your delightful Green Bean Casserole with Potatoes!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead?
Absolutely! Frozen green beans are a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the casserole to ensure even cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare everything up to the baking step a day in advance. Just store the unbaked casserole in the fridge, then bake it when you’re ready to serve. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option. Just be aware that the crispy topping might lose some crunch!
What’s a Good Substitute for Cheddar Cheese?
If you want to skip the cheddar cheese, you can use mozzarella for a mild flavor or a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a vegan option. Nutritional yeast also makes a great cheesy-flavored addition if you’re going dairy-free!
