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I never liked Green Bean Casserole until one day at Sam’s Club when I tried a sample. I was sure I wouldn’t enjoy it, but I was so wrong! The secret? Adding shredded smoked Gouda or Gruyère cheese, which transformed the classic dish into something truly irresistible.


The Best Green Bean Casserole You’ll Ever Taste

Ingredients

  • 4 cans of green beans, drained
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 ½ cups shredded smoked Gouda or Gruyere cheese
  • 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions (plus extra for topping)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of salt (optional, depending on the saltiness of the soup and cheese)

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Drain the 4 cans of green beans and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add 1 can of cream of mushroom soup and mix well to coat all the green beans.
  4. Stir in 1 to 1½ cups of shredded smoked Gouda or Gruyère cheese. (This is the secret ingredient that makes all the difference!)
  5. Season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a little garlic powder if you like extra flavor.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
  7. Top with crispy fried onions evenly across the surface.
  8. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly, and the onions are golden brown.
  9. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite!

Tips For The Best Green Bean Casserole:

  • Cheese Choice: Smoked Gouda brings a rich, deep flavor, while Gruyere adds a nutty, buttery note. Use whichever you prefer—or mix both!
  • Fresh Beans: If you prefer, you can blanch fresh green beans instead of using canned for a fresher bite.
  • Extra Crunch: Top the casserole with a generous layer of crispy onions just before serving to keep them nice and crunchy.
  • Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Just wait to add the final crispy onion topping until after baking.
  • Customize It: Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms or a sprinkle of paprika on top for an extra flavor boost.

Conclusion:

Who knew one simple ingredient could change everything? Whether you’ve always loved Green Bean Casserole or, like me, needed a little convincing, this version is a total game-changer. Rich, creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors, it’s a side dish that will steal the show at any meal. Try it once—you might just find yourself coming back for seconds!