Many people have a beloved Thanksgiving side dish that they look forward to every year. For some, it’s creamy mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, or anything involving sweet potatoes. And then there are those who swear by the classic green bean casserole.
While the canned condensed soup and crispy fried onions often steal the spotlight, none of it would be possible without the star ingredient: green beans. Enthusiasts of green bean casserole have strong opinions on whether frozen, canned, or fresh green beans should be used in this timeless side dish.
To settle the debate, we turned to casserole-loving food bloggers to determine the best kind of green beans for green bean casserole. Read on for their insights and see if you agree with their preferences.
When it comes to the age-old question of whether frozen or canned green beans are better for green bean casserole, the answer ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some argue for fresh French-cut green beans, like lifestyle blogger Chantelle Hartman Malarkey, who believes they offer a better texture and crunch.
Frozen green beans emerged as the winner in our discussions with food pros. Lauren Allen, owner of Tastes Better From Scratch, and Blair Lonergan, founder of The Seasoned Mom, both prefer frozen French-cut green beans for their casserole creations. They find that frozen beans retain their texture and flavor better when cooked, compared to canned beans which can become mushy.
For those who typically use canned green beans and enjoy them that way, there’s no need to change your routine. However, if you’re looking to elevate your canned green beans for a higher-end casserole experience, our experts have some tips. Draining the liquid, rinsing, and patting them dry can prevent a watery casserole. Additionally, a quick sauté can enhance the flavor and texture of the beans.
Now that you’ve settled the green bean debate, be sure to check out our answers to other common Thanksgiving questions, including how much turkey per person, how many potatoes to prepare, and when to buy your Thanksgiving turkey. And if you’re looking for dessert inspiration, we’ve got you covered with 27 dessert casserole recipes to make your Thanksgiving even sweeter.
In the world of Thanksgiving side dishes, the green bean casserole debate rages on. Whether you prefer frozen, canned, or fresh green beans, the most important thing is that you enjoy the dish with your loved ones. No matter what, Thanksgiving is a time to come together and savor the flavors of the season.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.