Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when homes are filled with the warm aromas of roasting turkey and spiced pies, and families gather to celebrate togetherness and gratitude. For me, *traditional thanksgiving sides* are the unsung heroes of the feast. You know, those comforting dishes that round out the meal and make each bite feel like a warm hug? One of my absolute favorites is the creamy green bean casserole topped with crispy fried onions. It’s simple, yet it brings back so many cherished memories of cozy family dinners and laughter around the table. Every spoonful is like a tasty reminder of our traditions, bringing everyone together to share in the joy and flavors of the season. So, let’s dive into this classic recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your Thanksgiving celebrations too!
Ingredients List
- 4 cups of fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup of sliced almonds
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of crispy fried onions
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Instructions
Prepping the Green Beans
First things first, let’s get those green beans ready! Start by trimming the ends off each bean. You just want to cut off the tough tip at the end. I usually do this by taking a handful and cutting a few at a time—it speeds things up! Once they’re trimmed, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the beans for about 5 minutes. This helps them retain that beautiful green color and crispness. After 5 minutes, drain them and give them a quick plunge in ice water to stop the cooking. Trust me, this step makes all the difference in texture!
Making the Sauce
Now, let’s whip up that creamy sauce! In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with the milk, garlic powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. I like to whisk it all together until it’s nice and smooth. If you’re worried about lumps, just take your time mixing, and it’ll come together beautifully! This creamy base is what makes the dish so comforting and delicious, so don’t skip this step!
Combining Ingredients
Next, it’s time to bring everything together! Gently fold the blanched green beans and sliced almonds into your creamy mixture. I usually use a spatula for this, as it helps to coat the beans evenly without smashing them. Make sure every bean is well covered in that luscious sauce—it’s what makes every bite so delightful. Take your time here, and don’t rush; a thorough mix will ensure every spoonful is packed with flavor!
Baking Instructions
Alright, we’re almost there! Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Now for the fun part—top it generously with crispy fried onions. They’re going to add that perfect crunch! Pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown. Oh, the smell will be heavenly, I promise!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about what makes this creamy green bean casserole not just delicious, but also satisfying in a balanced way! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup) based on standard ingredients:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 5g
Keep in mind that these values can vary a bit based on your ingredient choices, but it’s a great starting point to keep in mind as you enjoy this classic dish along with your Thanksgiving feast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a classic *traditional thanksgiving side* that everyone knows and loves!
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy holiday kitchens.
- Rich and creamy flavors that bring comfort with every bite.
- Fresh green beans add a pop of color and a satisfying crunch.
- Top it with crispy fried onions for that delightful texture contrast.
- Perfectly pairs with turkey, stuffing, and all your favorite Thanksgiving dishes.
- Can easily be made ahead of time, so you’re less stressed on the big day.
- Great for leftovers—if there are any, that is!
- It’s vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can enjoy it at the table.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your green bean casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my tried-and-true tips to elevate this classic dish:
- Fresh is Best: Always opt for fresh green beans instead of canned. They’ll give you that lovely crunch and vibrant color, which is key for a standout dish!
- Don’t Overcook: When blanching your green beans, keep a close eye on the clock. You want them tender but still crisp. A quick plunge in ice water is a game-changer for maintaining their texture!
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to jazz up the cream of mushroom soup! You can add sautéed onions, garlic, or even a splash of soy sauce for depth. Just make sure to balance flavors with your seasonings.
- Top It Off: For an extra special touch, mix some of the crispy fried onions into the casserole before baking, and then layer on more for that irresistible crunch on top.
- Oven Check: Every oven is a bit different, so start checking your casserole a few minutes before the 25-minute mark. You want that beautiful golden brown color and bubbling edges!
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It’s a real time-saver on Thanksgiving Day!
- Leftover Love: If you have leftovers (and that’s a big if!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They make for a delicious side dish or even a quick lunch the next day!
With these tips, you’ll have a green bean casserole that not only tastes fantastic but also brings smiles around the table. Happy cooking!
Variations
Once you’ve got this creamy green bean casserole down, the fun really begins! There are so many ways to give it your own twist while keeping that comforting essence of *traditional thanksgiving sides*. Here are some delicious ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Nutty Goodness: Swap out sliced almonds for other nuts like pecans or walnuts for a different flavor profile and texture. Just make sure to toast them lightly to enhance their nuttiness before adding them to the mix!
- Spice It Up: Want to add a little kick? Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a subtle heat that will surprise your taste buds!
- Cheesy Delight: If you’re a cheese lover like me, stir in some shredded cheddar or Gruyère into the sauce before baking. It creates a gooey, melty layer that takes this dish to a whole new level.
- Mushroom Medley: For an extra earthy flavor, incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the casserole. They pair beautifully with the cream of mushroom soup and add a lovely depth to the dish.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even dill can brighten up the casserole. Just chop them finely and mix them into the sauce for a fresh twist that complements the green beans wonderfully.
- Vegetable Variety: Mix in other veggies like sautéed onions or bell peppers for an added color and flavor boost. Just make sure they’re cooked a bit before adding them to keep the texture right!
- Vegan Option: For a plant-based version, swap the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade cashew cream or coconut milk and use vegan fried onions as a topping. You won’t miss the dairy at all!
These variations not only keep your holiday meals exciting, but they also allow you to experiment and find what you love most. So go ahead, get creative, and make this classic dish your own while still celebrating the heart of *traditional thanksgiving sides*!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about what to do with those delicious leftovers! If you’re lucky enough to have some creamy green bean casserole left after your Thanksgiving feast, storing it properly is key to keeping all that flavor intact. First, make sure the casserole is completely cooled down before you store it. This helps prevent any moisture buildup that could make it soggy.
Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container, and you can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to save it for later, you can also freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it should last for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ve got a couple of options. You can pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through and bubbly again. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Just cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist and heat it in short increments, stirring in between until it’s warmed through. Just be careful not to overheat, as that can dry it out. Trust me, you want all that creamy goodness to shine through!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to Thanksgiving, serving the perfect dishes together is key to creating a memorable feast! My creamy green bean casserole is a must-have, but it shines even brighter when paired with some classic favorites. Here’s how to enhance your *traditional thanksgiving sides* and give your meal that extra festive touch.
First up, you can’t go wrong with a beautifully roasted turkey. The rich, savory flavors of the turkey complement the creamy, crunchy goodness of the green bean casserole perfectly. Plus, those turkey drippings can be used to create a delicious gravy that ties everything together!
Don’t forget about stuffing! Whether it’s a classic bread stuffing or a cornbread version, the earthy flavors and herbs will pair wonderfully with the creamy texture of the casserole. Each bite will be like a cozy hug from your grandma!
And let’s not overlook the importance of cranberry sauce! The tartness of fresh cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the casserole and turkey, adding a refreshing contrast that brightens up the whole plate. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven!
If you’re looking for a bit more variety, consider adding mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole to the spread. The creamy potatoes, especially with a hint of butter and garlic, will harmonize beautifully with the green beans, creating a comforting, homey vibe at the table.
Finally, don’t forget about some warm, fresh bread! A fluffy dinner roll or a slice of cornbread makes the perfect vehicle for sopping up all that delicious gravy and casserole goodness. It’s all about creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures!
So go ahead, mix and match these dishes to create a Thanksgiving spread that not only looks stunning but also celebrates the essence of *traditional thanksgiving sides*. Your friends and family will be raving about the meal for years to come!
Imprimer
Traditional Thanksgiving Sides: 7 Ways to Elevate Your Feast
- Temps Total: 50 minutes
- Rendement: 8 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
Classic dishes served during Thanksgiving meals.
Ingrédients
- 4 cups of green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup of sliced almonds
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of crispy fried onions
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blanch green beans in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain.
- In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the blanched green beans and sliced almonds to the mixture and stir.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with crispy fried onions.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Use fresh green beans for the best texture.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version.
- Temps De Préparation: 20 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 30 minutes
- Catégorie: Side Dish
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sucre: 3g
- De Sodium: 400mg
- La graisse: 10g
- Graisses Saturées: 1g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 8g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 25g
- La fibre: 4g
- La protéine: 5g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 0mg
Mots-clés: traditional thanksgiving sides
