Green bean casserole is a timeless favorite, especially around the holidays. This slow cooker version makes preparation effortless, ensuring a creamy, flavorful dish without taking up valuable oven space. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual dinner, this Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole is the perfect addition to your table.
Why Make Green Bean Casserole in a Slow Cooker?
Using a slow cooker for this classic dish comes with several advantages:
- Hands-off Cooking: No need to monitor the oven; the slow cooker does all the work.
- More Oven Space: Ideal for large gatherings where oven space is limited.
- Enhanced Flavor: Slow cooking allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a richer, deeper taste.
- Perfect for Potlucks: Transporting and keeping the casserole warm is easier with a slow cooker.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole, gather the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh green beans (trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces) or 2 cans (14.5 oz each) green beans, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred for creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional but adds extra richness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup sour cream (adds a tangy depth of flavor)
- 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions (divided)
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smoky depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (adds umami richness)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a slight kick)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (for added savory crunch)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Slow Cooker
Lightly grease your slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional Worcestershire sauce. Stir until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Add the green beans to the slow cooker and pour the soup mixture over them. Stir to ensure the beans are evenly coated. Sprinkle in half of the French-fried onions and mix gently.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until the green beans are tender and the sauce is bubbly.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping
Once done, sprinkle the remaining French-fried onions on top. Cover and let sit for about 10–15 minutes to allow the onions to warm up and crisp slightly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Scoop out generous portions and serve immediately. Garnish with extra shredded cheese or fresh parsley for added appeal.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole
- Use Fresh or Frozen Green Beans: Canned beans work, but fresh or frozen give a better texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the time to prevent mushy beans.
- Stir Occasionally: If possible, give it a quick stir halfway through cooking for even distribution.
- Make It Ahead: You can mix all ingredients except the fried onions the night before and refrigerate, then cook the next day.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more milk; if too thin, stir in extra sour cream.
Variations to Try
- Cheesy Green Bean Casserole: Stir in extra cheese for a gooier dish.
- Bacon Lover’s Version: Mix in crumbled cooked bacon.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use dairy-free milk, plant-based cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions made without animal products.
What to Serve with Green Bean Casserole
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Roast Turkey or Chicken – A holiday classic.
- Mashed Potatoes and Gravy – The ultimate comfort combination.
- Stuffing or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Glazed Carrots or Roasted Brussels Sprouts – A complementary veggie side.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole is a game-changer, bringing convenience and rich, classic flavors to your holiday or weeknight table. With easy preparation and minimal effort, this dish delivers a creamy, comforting side that everyone will love. Try it out and make your next gathering even more special!
Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole
Description
A creamy and flavorful Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole is the perfect hassle-free side dish for holiday dinners and weeknight meals. Made with fresh green beans, a rich mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions, this classic dish is easy to prepare and full of comforting flavors. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a stress-free cooking experience!
Ingredients
For the Base:
For the Topping:
Instructions
Prepare the Green Beans
- Rinse and trim fresh green beans. Cut them into 2-inch pieces and set them aside.
Mix the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Place the green beans in the slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over them. Stir gently to coat evenly.
Slow Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the green beans are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally if possible.
Add the Toppings
- Sprinkle crispy fried onions and shredded cheddar cheese (if using) over the top. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and flavors to blend.
Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve warm as a delicious side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any comfort meal. Enjoy!
Note
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
- Make Ahead: Assemble ingredients in the slow cooker the night before, store in the fridge, and start cooking the next day.
- Variations: Substitute fresh green beans with frozen or canned green beans (adjust cooking time accordingly). Add cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk, dairy-free sour cream, and vegan cheese.