green bean casserole in slow cooker recipe

The Best green bean casserole in slow cooker recipe

Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

4.9 from 1722 votes

A comforting and creamy green bean casserole made effortlessly in a slow cooker, featuring crispy fried onions on top for added texture and flavor. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time2 hours

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time2 hours 20 mins

Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Green Beans

• 2 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Creamy Sauce

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup (150g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried thyme

For the Fried Onions

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp paprika

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1
   Trim the ends off the green beans and rinse them under cold water. Pat dry with a paper towel. Season with salt and pepper, then place them in the slow cooker.
2. 2
   In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.
3. 3
   Pour the creamy mixture into the slow cooker with the green beans. Stir gently to combine.
4. 4
   Place the slow cooker on low and cook for 2 hours.
5. 5
   While the green beans cook, heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown (about 10-12 minutes). Sprinkle with paprika and set aside.
6. 6
   Once the green beans are tender, remove them from the slow cooker and let them cool slightly. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Return the mixture to the slow cooker.
7. 7
   Top the green bean mixture with the fried onions and serve warm.

🔧Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Fryer or deep pan

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 18g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 16g

📝Notes

Tips

• For extra crispiness, use a mix of white and yellow onions.
• You can add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
• To make ahead, prepare the green bean mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the slow cooker on low for 1 hour before serving.

Substitutions

• {“ingredient”:”heavy cream”,”alternative”:”half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option”}
• {“ingredient”:”cheddar cheese”,”alternative”:”mixed cheeses like mozzarella and parmesan”}

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

1. What ingredients are typically required for a classic green bean casserole made in a slow cooker?

For a traditional slow cooker green bean casserole, you’ll need:
– Green beans (fresh or frozen, trimmed)
– Diced onion
– Diced celery
– Diced bell peppers (optional, for extra flavor)
– Butter or oil (for sautéing)
– Salt, pepper, and garlic powder (to season)
– Mushroom soup (canned or powdered) – usually 2 cups
– French fried onions (for topping, often 2 cups)

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2. Can I use fresh or frozen green beans in a slow cooker green bean casserole, and how do they differ?

You can use both fresh and frozen green beans, but there are slight differences:
– Fresh green beans require blanching before slow cooking to prevent overcooking and maintain texture. Rinse them, trim ends, and blanch in boiling water for 2–3 minutes before adding to the slow cooker.
– Frozen green beans are pre-cooked and ready to use—just thaw and drain well before mixing with the other ingredients. They may soften more quickly, so adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

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3. How long should I cook the green bean casserole in a slow cooker, and at what temperature?

For a classic slow cooker green bean casserole, follow these steps:
– Low setting: 4–6 hours
– High setting: 2–3 hours
– Temperature: 170–200°F (77–93°C)
– Tip: If using fresh beans, reduce cooking time slightly (about 3–4 hours on low) to avoid mushiness. Frozen beans can handle a full 4–6 hours on low.

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4. Can I make green bean casserole ahead of time, and how should I store it?

Yes, you can prepare the green bean casserole in advance, but there are a few key steps to keep it fresh:
– Make the filling first: Combine green beans, sautéed veggies, soup, and seasonings in the slow cooker. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before adding the fried onions.
– Add fried onions last: Before serving, top with hot French fried onions (they’ll crisp up better when reheated with the casserole).
– Storage:
– Fridge: Up to 3–4 days in an airtight container.
– Freezer: Assemble the casserole (without the onions), freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on low for 4–6 hours or in the microwave, then add crispy fried onions before serving.

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5. What substitutions can I make for the classic green bean casserole ingredients?

Here are some creative swaps while keeping the dish delicious:
– Green beans: Use asparagus, zucchini, or even roasted corn for a twist.
– Mushroom soup: Swap for cream of chicken, mushroom, or vegetable soup (reduce by ¼ cup to avoid excess liquid).
– French fried onions: Try crispy bacon bits, chopped pickles, or roasted garlic for a different flavor profile.
– Extra protein: Add shredded rotisserie chicken, sausage, or even tofu for a heartier dish.
– Vegetarian option: Use vegan mushroom soup and skip the butter for a dairy-free version.