Green Bean Casserole Velveeta

Okay, friends, gather ‘round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s been a staple in my family for years – Green Bean Casserole, but with a secret weapon: Velveeta! Now, I know what you might be thinking: Velveeta? In green bean casserole? Trust me on this one. It adds this incredible creaminess and richness that takes it from ordinary to absolutely unforgettable. It’s kind of like comparing a classic mac and cheese to one that’s been kicked up a notch with gourmet cheese. This Green Bean Casserole Velveeta version? It’s the gourmet mac and cheese of holiday side dishes, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I always make sure to whip this up around Thanksgiving and Christmas because it just isn’t the same without it. My kids are always asking for it!

What is green bean casserole?

Alright, for anyone who hasn’t encountered this classic dish before (where have you been?!), Green Bean Casserole is a quintessential American side dish, especially popular during the holidays. Think of it as a creamy, comforting combination of green beans, a luscious sauce (usually made with cream of mushroom soup), and topped with crispy fried onions. It’s essentially a warm hug in a casserole dish. The name can be a bit deceiving too, sometimes there is no actual casserole. Now, I’m adding my twist with the Velveeta because, why not make a perfect dish even better? Velveeta melts like a dream, creating a velvety smooth sauce that clings to the green beans and those irresistible fried onions. It’s easy to throw together, and the result is always a big hit. I’ve never had any leftovers!

Why you will love this recipe?

Okay, where do I even begin? There are SO many reasons to love this Green Bean Casserole Velveeta recipe. First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world. That creamy, cheesy Velveeta sauce combined with the earthy green beans and the salty crunch of the fried onions is just pure comfort food perfection. What I love most about this is how incredibly simple it is to make. Seriously, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you can totally nail this. It’s also incredibly cost-effective. Green beans are usually pretty budget-friendly, and a block of Velveeta goes a long way. This recipe is also super versatile. You can easily add other veggies like mushrooms or even a sprinkle of bacon for an extra layer of flavor. It’s kind of like my secret weapon when I need a side dish that everyone will love, without spending hours in the kitchen. If you’re a fan of easy, cheesy, and delicious recipes like my creamy spinach dip, then you are absolutely going to adore this Green Bean Casserole Velveeta. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

How do I make green bean casserole with Velveeta?

Quick Overview

Making this Green Bean Casserole Velveeta is a breeze, I promise! You’ll start by whipping up a quick and creamy sauce with Velveeta, milk, and a few seasonings. Then, you’ll toss in your green beans (fresh, frozen, or canned, whatever you have on hand works!), and top it all off with those crispy fried onions. A quick bake in the oven, and you’re golden! What makes this method special is the simplicity – no complicated steps or fancy ingredients required. And the best part? It’s ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or those last-minute holiday gatherings. I’ve tested this recipe countless times, and it’s always a winner!

Ingredients

For the Casserole:
* 1 (12 ounce) package frozen cut Green Beans, thawed (or 2 cans, drained) – I personally prefer frozen, they seem to hold their shape better.
* 1 (16 ounce) block Velveeta cheese, cubed – Don’t skimp on the good stuff! Velveeta is what makes this so creamy.
* 1/2 cup milk – I’ve used everything from skim to whole, and they all work great. I even tested it with almond milk once, and it actually made it even creamier!
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a nice little kick.
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground is always best, if you have it!
* 1 (6 ounce) can french fried onions – These are a must! I love the extra crispy kind.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I usually just use a little cooking spray, but you can also use butter or oil. Make sure to get the corners, too, so nothing sticks! This step is important because no one wants a stuck casserole.

Step 2: Make the Velveeta Sauce

In a large saucepan, combine the cubed Velveeta cheese and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the Velveeta is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. I always do this over medium heat because you don’t want to scorch the cheese. Keep stirring too. Trust me! It helps ensure that the sauce is silky smooth. Once the cheese is melted, stir in the garlic powder and black pepper. Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings if you like.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the thawed green beans to the Velveeta sauce and stir to coat evenly. Make sure all the green beans are nicely coated in that creamy sauce. This is where the magic happens, folks! The sauce will start to cling to the beans, creating that classic casserole consistency.

Step 4: Transfer to Dish

What is the best way to spread the green bean mixture in a baking dish? How do you make sure the green beans bake evenly? What is the fun part?

Step 5: Top with Fried Onions

Sprinkle the french fried onions evenly over the top of the green bean mixture. I usually save about 1/4 of the can to sprinkle on at the very end to give it an extra crunchy texture. Don’t be shy with the onions, they’re what make this casserole so irresistible!

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the fried onions are golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end to make sure the onions don’t burn. Every oven is different, so adjust the baking time accordingly.

Step 7: Add Extra Onions (Optional)

If you saved some fried onions, sprinkle them over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a crispy finish. I always do this! It adds such a satisfying texture.

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. I know it’s tempting to dig right in, but letting it cool slightly helps the flavors meld together even more. Serve warm and enjoy!

What do you serve it with?

Green Bean Casserole Velveeta is the ultimate side dish. What are the different types

For Thanksgiving/ChristmasIs cranberry sauce a must-have along with turkey? What is a classic song? I like to serve it with a side of glazed carrots for tastiness.

For Weeknight Dinners:What are some good ways to serve roasted chicken, pork chops, or even a simple meatloaf? What is the best way to add comfort to a meal?

For Potlucks:What is a good casserole to bring to your next potluck? I love this recipe. It’s easy to transport and everyone loves it.

As a Snack:Okay, maybe not a snack per se, but sometimes I’ll sneak one spoonful straight from the fridge. Don’t judge me, it’s that good. What are some good savory recipes that you can bake at 10pm but don’t want to bake a whole loaf? My family usually has a little bit of everything when we serve this dish because it is Thanksgiving. What are some of the best mac and cheese recipes? What’s better: mac and cheese and green beans casserole?

How do you make a green bean casserole?

Want to take your Green Bean Casserole Velveeta to the next level? Here are a few of my top tips:

What is the best green bean toI prefer frozen green beans because they hold their shape better than canned ones. If you’re using canned, make sure to drain them really well to avoid a watery casserole.

VelveetaBe patient when melting Velveeta cheese. Keep the heat on medium and stir constantly to prevent scorching. You want a smooth, creamy sauce, not lumpy mess.

Seasoning is Key:Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings. How do you add onion powder to a casserole? Where do you get creative and make your own things?

Crispy Onions:For extra crispy fried onions, sprinkle them on top during the last 5 minutes of baking. How do you keep them from burning?

Add-ins:How can I get creative with add-ins? Sautéed mushrooms, cooked bacon, or even a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese can take this recipe. What is casserole? I like to add a layer of sauteed mushrooms to my recipe.

Make-Ahead Ti You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the fried onions right before baking to prevent them from getting soggy.

What are the Storing and Reheating Tips?

How do I reheat a green bean casserole?

Refrigerator Storage: WhatCan you store a casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days? Make sure it’s properly sealed to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it in individual portions for a quick and easy reheat.

Glaze Timing Advice: I recommend adding a fresh sprinkle of fried onions after reheating to revive that crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free cream of mushroom soup (or making your own with a gluten-free roux) and gluten-free fried onions. There are several brands of gluten-free fried onions available online and in some grocery stores. Just make sure to check the labels to ensure they are truly gluten-free.

Do I need to thaw the green beans before using them?

If you are using frozen green beans, it’s best to thaw them before adding them to the casserole. This will help prevent the casserole from becoming watery. You can thaw them in the microwave or let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can add them frozen, but be sure to increase the baking time slightly.

Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen or canned?

Absolutely! If you’re using fresh green beans, you’ll need to trim and cook them before adding them to the casserole. Steam, boil, or sauté them until they are tender-crisp, then proceed with the recipe.

Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker! Combine all the ingredients (except the fried onions) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until heated through. Sprinkle the fried onions on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of Velveeta, you can substitute it with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, or a combination of both. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well for that creamy texture. You could also use a can of condensed cheddar cheese soup!

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! My family’s favorite Green Bean Casserole Velveeta recipe. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. I promise you, once you try it, you’ll never go back to the traditional version. It’s the perfect side dish for any occasion, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. If you love easy and comforting recipes like this one, be sure to check out my other casserole recipes! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Happy cooking!

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