Name: Paula Deen's Green Bean Casserole Made Comforting
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 3 cans (14.5 oz) green beans, drained; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions, divided; Optional: pinch of cayenne or paprika

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Table of Contents

If you’re looking for a dish that brings back warm family memories and fills your home with the comforting smell of good food, Paula Deen’s green bean casserole is just the recipe for you. This Southern-style take on the classic casserole is creamy, crunchy, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of dish you can count on to bring smiles around the dinner table—whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a simple Sunday meal. Paula’s version gives a heartier twist on the original Campbell’s version, and it’s packed with rich, homestyle ingredients that feel both indulgent and nostalgic. If you’re someone who loves meals that feel like a hug in a bowl, you’re in for a treat.

What makes this recipe special is how simple it is to prepare, while still tasting like something that took hours to make. It’s a fantastic side dish that complements turkey, ham, or even a weeknight rotisserie chicken. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly—always a win for busy home cooks juggling it all.

Key Benefits

One of the biggest benefits of Paula Deen’s green bean casserole is how unfussy it is. You don’t need culinary training or a pantry full of exotic ingredients. It’s built around things you likely already have on hand or can grab at any grocery store: canned green beans, mushroom soup, crispy fried onions, and a few seasonings. The addition of cheese and sour cream, which is common in Paula’s version, gives it that signature Southern richness you just can’t fake.

Another key perk? It’s beloved by kids and adults alike. If you’ve ever struggled to get someone to eat their green vegetables, this dish might just do the trick. The creamy texture and crispy topping make each bite feel like comfort food. It’s easy to double or halve, depending on the size of your gathering, and leftovers (if you have any) reheat like a dream.

This casserole also fits beautifully into so many occasions. Thanksgiving? Absolutely. Potluck? You bet. Weeknight comfort food? It’s a yes from us. And if you’re trying to balance indulgence with ease, this dish strikes that perfect middle ground. It tastes like you spent all day cooking, but it takes less than an hour from start to finish.

Ingredients for Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole

Here’s a list of all the ingredients you’ll need to make this warm and comforting casserole:

3 cans (14.5 oz each) green beans, drained (or use 5–6 cups cooked fresh beans)
Use a 10.5-ounce can of condensed cream of mushroom soup to create that creamy, comforting flavor foundation.
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions, divided
Optional: a pinch of cayenne or paprika for added depth

This blend gives you a creamy, cheesy, slightly tangy base with that unbeatable crispy topping. You can even mix in some sautéed mushrooms or chopped bacon if you want to elevate the flavor a bit more.

Instructions for Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Combine the mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, shredded cheese, garlic powder, pepper, and onion powder in a big mixing bowl until smooth.
Fold in the drained green beans and about a cup of crispy onions, mixing gently so the creamy coating spreads evenly. Stir to coat everything well.
Pour the mixture into the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Place the dish in the oven, uncovered, and bake for around 30 minutes, or until the mixture is warm and bubbling nicely.
Sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top and return to the oven for another 5–10 minutes, until golden and crisp.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes once it’s out of the oven to help all those rich flavors come together.

This simple baking process ensures everything melds together perfectly and that the topping gets that delightful crunch.

Smart Swaps and Tasty Twists for Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole

Looking to put your own spin on this comfort-food classic? Here are a few ideas to customize Paula Deen’s version:

Add bacon or ham: A few cooked, crumbled slices of bacon or diced ham add a smoky, savory depth that really complements the creamy base.
Fresh or frozen green beans work great—just boil fresh ones for a few minutes, then cool them down quick before mixing in. It adds a bit more texture and freshness, though canned works beautifully for convenience.
Try a mushroom upgrade: Sauté some fresh mushrooms with a little butter and garlic before mixing in. This amps up the earthy flavor.
Cheese choices: Swap the cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a little Gruyère if you’re feeling fancy.
Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance—just cover and refrigerate. Add the fried onions right before baking so they stay crisp.

Pro tip: Always taste your base mixture before baking. Some mushroom soups are saltier than others, so you may not need to add extra salt.

Serving Suggestions for Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole

This green bean casserole is incredibly versatile. It works as a hearty side for:

Thanksgiving turkey – alongside stuffing and mashed potatoes, this dish holds its own.
Easter ham – that creamy texture and crunchy top balance the saltiness of the ham beautifully.
Roast chicken or pork – it makes even a weeknight meal feel a bit special.

Want to make it a full meal? Just add some cooked chicken or ground beef and you’re good to go. Just stir in some shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked ground beef before baking and serve with a side salad and crusty bread.

For a lighter plate, pair it with a crisp vinaigrette-dressed salad or steamed carrots. You might also enjoy it with baked sweet potatoes or buttery dinner rolls. However you dish it up, folks will be asking for seconds.

More Dishes from Recipes2Gather

You may also love these comforting dishes:

If you’re craving more cheesy comfort, check out our old-school baked mac and cheese—it hits the spot.
Add a sweet note to your meal with Candied Yams.
Planning a holiday feast? Don’t miss our Cranberry Sauce Guide.
Need something cheesy and fun? Try our Protein Mac and Cheese.

Trusted Sources

Learn about the benefits of green beans from Healthline.
USDA’s Vegetable Storage Guide helps you store produce properly.
Get smart about sodium in casseroles from Mayo Clinic.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s green bean casserole is more than just a holiday classic—it’s a year-round comfort dish that’s as easy as it is satisfying. Whether you’re whipping it up for your loved ones at Thanksgiving or bringing it to a church potluck, this casserole offers cozy flavors and familiar textures that feel like home. With simple ingredients and warm, cheesy goodness, it’s no wonder this dish has earned its place on Southern tables everywhere.

Once you try this version, you may never go back to the plain one again. It’s creamy, rich, and just indulgent enough to make every bite feel special. If you’re craving that nostalgic, feel-good dish, Paula’s green bean casserole delivers every time.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? You bet?

Absolutely. Prepare everything except the final layer of crispy onions, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just top with onions and bake when ready.

Can I freeze green bean casserole?

Yes, but it’s best without the crispy onions. Freeze the base in a dish wrapped tightly. Let it sit in the fridge overnight to thaw, then add the crispy onions and bake it up fresh

Wondering if fresh green beans will work? They sure do!

Yes! Just blanch them for 3–4 minutes in boiling water, then transfer to ice water before adding to the mix. It helps them stay bright and just a little crunchy—no mushy beans here.

Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole Made Comforting