The holidays are a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious food! And while many classic dishes grace our tables, few are as beloved – and surprisingly easy to make – as green bean casserole. This recipe takes advantage of Trader Joe's convenient ingredients to create a mouthwatering side that's sure to impress, without the fuss.
Why Trader Joe's? Trader Joe's offers several pre-made ingredients that simplify the green bean casserole process, allowing you to focus on enjoying the holiday rather than spending hours in the kitchen. Their frozen green beans are consistently high-quality, and their other offerings make assembly a breeze.
What You'll Need:
This recipe leverages Trader Joe's products for simplicity. Feel free to substitute with your preferred brands if needed.
- 1 bag (16 oz) Trader Joe's French Style Green Beans, thawed
- 1 can (10.75 oz) Trader Joe's Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 1/2 cup Trader Joe's Milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1/2 cup Trader Joe's Crispy Fried Onions
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for added richness)
How to Make It:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Green Beans: If using frozen green beans, thaw them completely before proceeding. You can do this by letting them sit at room temperature for a few hours or microwaving them until fully thawed. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the thawed green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using). If adding butter, melt it and stir it into the mixture.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
- Top with Onions: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top.
- Broil (Optional): For extra crispy onions, broil for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some commonly asked questions about making green bean casserole, specifically with Trader Joe's ingredients:
Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Yes, you absolutely can! If using fresh green beans, trim the ends and steam or blanch them until tender-crisp before adding them to the casserole. This will prevent them from being undercooked.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, consider using low-sodium cream of mushroom soup, reduced-fat milk, and fewer crispy fried onions. You could also add some sauteed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
What if I don't have Trader Joe's Crispy Fried Onions?
You can substitute with any brand of crispy fried onions, or even make your own! Many recipes for homemade crispy fried onions are available online.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add the crispy fried onions right before baking.
Can I freeze this casserole?
While you can freeze this casserole, it's best enjoyed fresh. Freezing can affect the texture of the green beans and the crispiness of the onions.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to get creative! Consider adding other vegetables like sliced mushrooms, diced carrots, or even some chopped onions to the casserole for added flavor and nutrients.
This Trader Joe's green bean casserole recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a holiday classic. With its convenient ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for even the busiest of cooks. Enjoy!
