How to Make Paula Deen Green Bean Casserole at Home

Introduction

When it comes to Southern comfort food, Paula Deen is a name that instantly comes to mind. Known as the queen of butter and heartwarming meals, Paula has given us countless recipes to love. One of her most popular creations, especially around the holidays, is the Paula Deen green bean casserole. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with golden fried onions, this dish is a showstopper at any table.

In this guide, we’ll walk through Paula’s take on the classic green bean casserole—easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.

What is Paula Deen Green Bean Casserole?

At its heart, a green bean casserole is a simple baked dish made with green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. Paula Deen’s version adds her signature Southern flair by making it extra rich and cheesy.

Think of it as the classic you grew up with, but with a little more comfort, warmth, and indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to bring this recipe to life:

• 4 cups green beans (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Paula Deen Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Step 1 – Prep the Green Beans

If using fresh green beans, trim the ends and blanch them in boiling water for 3–4 minutes. If using canned or frozen, just drain and set aside.

Step 2 – Make the Creamy Base

In a saucepan, melt butter, add the cream of mushroom soup, and stir in milk or heavy cream until smooth.

Step 3 – Combine and Mix

Mix the green beans with the creamy base. Add half the shredded cheddar cheese for extra flavor.

Step 4 – Add Toppings

Pour everything into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese and half the fried onions on top.

Step 5 – Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25–30 minutes. In the last 5 minutes, top with the remaining onions and bake until they’re crispy and golden.

Tips for the Best Casserole

• Fresh vs canned beans – Fresh beans give a nice crunch, while canned beans make it softer and quicker.
• Cheese makes a difference – Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor.
• Crispy topping – Add onions only in the last few minutes to keep them crunchy.

Variations of the Recipe

Want to put your own spin on it? Try these:

• With bacon – Fry bacon bits and mix them in for smoky flavor.
• With mushrooms – Use fresh sautéed mushrooms instead of canned soup.
• Gluten-free – Use gluten-free fried onions and soup.

What to Serve with Green Bean Casserole

This dish is a sidekick to many classic meals:

• Roast turkey or chicken
• Mashed potatoes and gravy
• Cornbread or dinner rolls

It’s especially perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make ahead – Assemble the casserole (without onions) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add onions right before baking.
• Freezing – You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months.
• Reheating – Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes to keep onions crisp.

Why You’ll Love This Paula Deen Recipe

• Comfort food at its finest
• Easy to make with pantry staples
• A guaranteed hit at family dinners

This recipe proves why Paula Deen remains a household name when it comes to classic Southern cooking.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a holiday side dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and downright delicious, the Paula Deen green bean casserole is a must-try. It’s simple, affordable, and packs a punch of flavor. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a weeknight dinner, this casserole will always be a winner.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, fresh green beans give a better crunch. Just blanch them first.

2. Can I make it without mushroom soup?
Absolutely! You can make a roux with butter, flour, milk, and fresh mushrooms.

3. How long does it take to bake?
Around 25–30 minutes at 350°F.

4. Can I double the recipe for a large gathering?
Yes! Just use a bigger casserole dish and bake a little longer.

5. How do I keep leftovers fresh?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.