There’s nothing quite like a comforting dish to bring the family together, and that’s exactly why I adore my Mac and Cheese Green Bean Casserole. This little gem combines the creamy goodness of classic macaroni and cheese with the crunchy, savory flavors of a green bean casserole, making it a true crowd-pleaser at any gathering. I can still remember the first time I whipped this up for a Thanksgiving dinner – the look on my Aunt Betty’s face when she took that first bite was priceless! The combination of silky cheese, tender green beans, and crispy fried onions made it an instant favorite!
Now, I must admit that I love a good casserole. They’re like hugs in a dish, right? This recipe not only hits the spot when it comes to comfort food but is also super easy to make. So grab your apron (or maybe just your favorite comfy t-shirt), and let’s dive into this deliciousness together!
What’s in Mac and Cheese Green Bean Casserole?
Elbow Macaroni: The quintessential pasta for mac and cheese! I prefer cooking it until it’s al dente so it holds its texture in the casserole.
Green Beans: You can use canned green beans for convenience, but I love fresh green beans— they add a nice crunch and vibrant color!
Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show! I use extra sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor, but feel free to mix it up with your favorites!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creamy base melds all the flavors together beautifully. I usually go for the classic brand, but any variety will do!
Milk: Just a splash to keep everything rich and creamy!
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These little flavor boosters are essential for that delicious depth!
Salt and Pepper: Can’t forget the seasoning!
French Fried Onions: These give the casserole its irresistible crunch! You can never have too many crispy onions on top, am I right?
Is Mac and Cheese Green Bean Casserole Good for You?
Well, let’s be honest – it’s a casserole and definitely more on the indulgent side! But here’s the beauty of it:
Green Beans: These are packed with vitamins and minerals while being low in calories. So you can feel good about adding a little green to your plate!
Cheddar Cheese: While it’s rich and creamy, cheese is also a great source of calcium and protein. Just keep in mind the portion size if you’re keeping an eye on cholesterol.
Cream Soup: This adds significant creaminess but can be high in sodium, so look for low-sodium versions if you’re watching your salt intake.
Overall, it’s not the healthiest option, but in moderation, it’s a delicious addition to your meal!
Ingredients List
– 8 ounces elbow macaroni
– 1 can (15 ounces) green beans, drained (or 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and chopped)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup French fried onions (divided)
*Serves approximately 6-8 people*
How to Make Mac and Cheese Green Bean Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The smell of that hot oven is just the warm-up we need!
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it and set it aside. (Don’t forget to save some of that pasta water – it’s liquid gold!)
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, drained green beans, 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until it gets all cozy together!
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, like you’re making a lasagna.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This is where the magic happens!
6. Remove it from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of French fried onions on top. Pop it back in and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly, and the onions are golden brown and oh-so-crispy!
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. (Trust me; this helps avoid any steaming surprises on your tongue!)
Make It Your Own!
Feel free to play around with this recipe! Want a cheese explosion? Go for a mix of gouda and mozzarella! Need to add some protein? Toss in some cooked bacon bits or grilled chicken! Feeling adventurous? Add sautéed mushrooms or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. The possibilities are endless!
I hope you’re as excited to try this Mac and Cheese Green Bean Casserole as I was the first time I made it. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or just a Wednesday night, I promise it will leave you and your loved ones smiling. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out – share your experiences and any fun twists you try! Happy cooking!
