Easy Velveeta Green Bean Casserole: Your New Go-To Cheesy Holiday Side Dish
This **Velveeta green bean casserole** recipe offers a delightful and incredibly cheesy twist on a beloved classic. Featuring tender frozen green beans, crispy fried onions, a rich cream of mushroom soup base, and a touch of sour cream for extra tang, this dish delivers an ultra-creamy, extra-saucy experience that’s perfect for any occasion, especially your holiday dinner table. If you’re searching for a side dish that will win over even the pickiest eaters, especially those who prefer their vegetables generously coated in cheese, look no further. This recipe is designed to be a crowd-pleaser, transforming simple ingredients into a side dish sensation.
While similar to a traditional green bean casserole, this version stands out with the luxurious addition of Velveeta block cheese and the subtle tang of sour cream. The result is a profoundly creamy and irresistibly saucy side dish that’s both comforting and exciting. The smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture of Velveeta elevates the entire casserole, creating a richness that is hard to resist. This enhanced creaminess ensures every spoonful is a burst of flavor, making it an instant favorite for family gatherings and festive meals.
This versatile recipe can be prepared in an 8×8 or 9×9 casserole dish, making it ideal for smaller gatherings. For larger family dinners or when you want to feed a bigger crowd, simply double the ingredients to fill a standard 9×13 casserole dish. If this creamy, cheesy creation captures your heart, be sure to explore more of our favorite green bean casserole recipes. For an added layer of savory goodness, consider trying our bacon green bean casserole next, which brings a smoky, irresistible flavor to the classic dish.
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Recipe Highlights: Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Green Bean Casserole
Discover what makes this Velveeta Green Bean Casserole an absolute must-try for your next meal or holiday gathering. From its effortless preparation to its irresistible flavor, these highlights explain why it’s destined to become a family favorite.
- Effortlessly Easy Recipe: This side dish is incredibly simple to prepare, making it a stress-free addition to your Thanksgiving dinner or any busy weeknight. With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, comforting casserole ready in no time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal.
- Unmatched Cheesy Goodness: The star of this casserole is undoubtedly Velveeta, known for its unparalleled smoothness and creamy texture when melted. Unlike traditional shredded cheeses that can sometimes clump or separate, Velveeta creates a luxurious, velvety sauce that perfectly coats every green bean, delivering a rich, melt-in-your-mouth cheesy experience that’s simply irresistible.
- A Delicious Twist on a Traditional Favorite: While rooted in the classic Campbell’s green bean casserole, this recipe takes comfort food to the next level. It thoughtfully enhances the beloved base with the addition of creamy Velveeta cheese, the subtle tang of sour cream, and a hint of savory garlic powder. This combination results in a casserole that is significantly richer, saucier, and boasts a depth of flavor that sets it apart from the original. It’s familiar yet exciting, making it a fantastic update to a holiday staple.
[feast_advanced_jump_to]
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Green Bean Casserole
Crafting the perfect Velveeta green bean casserole starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the desired creamy texture, savory depth, and irresistible cheesiness that makes this dish a standout. Below, we break down the key ingredients and offer insights into their contribution to this spectacular side dish.
- Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: This classic ingredient serves as the fundamental creamy base for your casserole’s sauce. It provides a savory umami depth and thickens the mixture beautifully, ensuring a rich and cohesive texture. It’s the traditional starting point for most green bean casseroles, offering a familiar and comforting flavor profile.
- Milk: Integral to achieving the perfect creamy consistency, milk helps to thin out the condensed soup and Velveeta, creating a smooth, pourable sauce. You can adjust the fat content of the milk to control the richness of the final dish, from skim to whole milk, or even half-and-half for an extra luxurious touch.
- Velveeta Cheese: The star of this cheesy rendition! Velveeta, a processed cheese product, is specifically chosen for its exceptional melting properties. It dissolves seamlessly into the sauce, creating an incredibly smooth, velvety, and consistent cheese sauce without any graininess, making it perfect for coating every single green bean. Its mild, tangy flavor is universally appealing.
- Green Beans: This recipe is optimized for frozen cut green beans, which should be thawed before use to ensure even cooking and prevent excess moisture. However, the versatility of this dish means you can also use canned green beans (thoroughly drained) or fresh green beans. Detailed instructions for preparing both canned and fresh options are provided in the recipe card for your convenience.
- Crispy Fried Onions: These iconic French fried onions add a crucial textural contrast and a delightful savory, slightly salty crunch to the casserole. Half are mixed into the creamy filling, while the other half are generously sprinkled on top during the final baking stage, creating an irresistible golden-brown topping.
- Sour Cream: Beyond contributing to the overall creaminess, sour cream introduces a subtle tanginess that beautifully balances the richness of the Velveeta cheese and the savory notes of the soup. It adds a pleasant depth of flavor that brightens the casserole and prevents it from being overly heavy.
- Soy Sauce: A small but mighty addition, soy sauce brings a profound savory (umami) flavor and a touch of saltiness that enhances all the other ingredients. It deepens the overall taste profile, making the casserole more complex and satisfying.
- Garlic Powder: For a warm, aromatic kick, garlic powder is essential. It infuses the entire dish with a comforting, savory garlic flavor without the sharpness of fresh garlic, blending seamlessly into the creamy sauce.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice and aromatic complexity, complementing the rich flavors of the casserole. It’s a simple seasoning that makes a big difference.
- Kosher Salt: Used to season the dish to perfection, kosher salt enhances all the individual flavors. Remember to taste and adjust the amount of salt, especially given the saltiness from the soup, Velveeta, and soy sauce.
For precise measurements and additional details, always refer to the complete recipe card below.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Your Perfect Cheesy Casserole
Whipping up this Velveeta Green Bean Casserole is a breeze, designed for simplicity without compromising on flavor. Follow these easy steps to achieve a perfectly creamy, cheesy, and crunchy side dish that everyone will adore. Remember to gather all your ingredients and equipment before you start for a smooth cooking process.
First, preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Allowing the oven to reach the correct temperature ensures even baking and a perfectly cooked casserole.
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesy Sauce Base. In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir occasionally until the mixture is thoroughly warmed through and begins to gently simmer. Once hot, add the cubed Velveeta cheese. Continue stirring constantly until the Velveeta is completely melted and incorporated, creating a smooth, lump-free, and creamy cheese sauce. This foundational sauce is what makes this casserole so incredibly rich and delicious.
Step 2: Combine the Filling Ingredients. Carefully remove the saucepan from the heat. Now, it’s time to assemble the main casserole filling. Stir in the thawed green beans, half of the crispy fried onions (these will add a wonderful texture throughout the casserole), the sour cream, soy sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the green beans are evenly coated in the rich, cheesy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before moving on.
Step 3: Transfer and Initial Bake. Pour the green bean mixture into your prepared 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. During this initial bake, the casserole will heat through, become wonderfully bubbly around the edges, and the flavors will meld together beautifully. This step ensures the green beans are tender and the sauce is perfectly hot before the final topping is added.
Step 4: The Final Touch and Bake. After the initial baking time, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Give the mixture a gentle stir to ensure all the cheesy goodness is well distributed. Then, generously sprinkle the remaining half of the crispy fried onions evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the onions are beautifully golden brown and the entire filling is thoroughly bubbly and heated through. This final bake ensures a perfectly crisp topping that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy interior. Serve hot and enjoy!
Stir the baked casserole gently to redistribute the creamy goodness, then generously top with the remaining crispy fried onions. This ensures a fresh, crunchy layer for the final bake.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Keep a close eye on it until the crispy fried onions achieve a beautiful golden brown color and the creamy filling is vigorously bubbling, signaling it’s perfectly hot and ready to serve.
Smart Substitutions for Your Green Bean Casserole
Flexibility is key in the kitchen, and this Velveeta Green Bean Casserole recipe is incredibly adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs. Don’t have an ingredient on hand, or simply want to try a different flavor profile? Here are some smart substitutions that maintain the delicious essence of the dish while allowing for creative modifications.
- Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: If mushroom flavor isn’t your favorite, or if you want to experiment, feel free to substitute with other condensed cream soups. Great alternatives include cream of celery, cream of chicken (for a savory poultry note), cream of cheddar (for even more cheese flavor), or even cream of potato soup for a heartier base. Each will subtly alter the flavor profile but maintain the desired creaminess.
- Milk: The type of milk you use can affect the richness. For an extra indulgent casserole, opt for half-and-half or heavy cream, which will impart a richer, more luxurious texture. If you’re looking to lighten the dish slightly, reduced-fat milk or skim milk can be used, though the final casserole will be less creamy and may have a slightly thinner consistency.
- Velveeta Cheese: While Velveeta Original Cheese is recommended for its signature creamy melt, you can certainly experiment with other Velveeta varieties. Queso Blanco offers a milder, tangier profile, while Mexican Velveeta can add a subtle spice. Even Velveeta made with 2% milk works well. While the brick-style blocks are easiest to cube and melt, slices can also be used; just break them up to help them melt faster. For a truly different approach, a blend of shredded sharp cheddar and cream cheese can mimic Velveeta’s melt, though it won’t be exactly the same.
- Frozen Cut Green Beans, Thawed: This recipe is very versatile regarding green bean type. You can easily substitute with 1-½ pounds of fresh green beans. If using fresh, make sure to trim them, chop them in half for bite-sized pieces, and blanch them in boiling water for about 5 minutes until tender-crisp before draining thoroughly. Alternatively, two cans (14.5 ounces each) of green beans can be used; simply ensure they are well-drained to prevent a watery casserole.
- Crispy Fried Onions, Divided: If you’re feeling adventurous or prefer a homemade touch, you can replace store-bought crispy fried onions with homemade crispy-fried onions. This can add an even fresher, more robust onion flavor to your casserole. You can also experiment with other crunchy toppings like crushed Ritz crackers, Panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed potato chips for a different texture.
- Sour Cream: For a healthier or dairy-free alternative, plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat) makes an excellent substitute for sour cream, providing a similar tang and creamy texture. In a pinch, softened cream cheese can also be used, though it will result in a slightly denser and richer sauce.
- Soy Sauce: To maintain that crucial umami and savory depth, you can substitute soy sauce with Worcestershire sauce for a similar flavor profile. Tamari is a great gluten-free option, while liquid aminos provide a soy-free alternative with comparable savory notes.
- Seasonings: The beauty of cooking is customization! The garlic powder, black pepper, and kosher salt can be easily adjusted or omitted entirely based on your personal preference. Feel free to add other spices like onion powder, a pinch of cayenne for heat, or even some dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor.
Delicious Variations to Elevate Your Casserole
While the classic Velveeta Green Bean Casserole is a triumph on its own, sometimes it’s fun to explore new flavor dimensions. These variations offer simple ways to customize your casserole, adding extra richness, savory notes, or a classic touch to suit any palate.
- Extra Cheesy Delight: For the ultimate cheese lover, boost the cheesy factor by stirring in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, or a Mexican blend into the green bean mixture along with the Velveeta. This will add additional gooeyness and a more complex cheese flavor, making the casserole even more decadent and satisfying.
- Return to the Classic: If you sometimes crave the original comfort of a traditional green bean casserole, consider exploring our classic green bean casserole recipe. It offers a nostalgic taste that’s always a crowd-pleaser and a great reference point for comparison.
- Bacon Lover’s Dream: Everything’s better with bacon, and this casserole is no exception! You can either add 4 to 6 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon directly into this Velveeta green bean recipe for an immediate savory upgrade, or dive into a recipe specifically designed for it with our dedicated bacon green bean casserole, which perfectly incorporates smoky bacon throughout the dish.
Essential Equipment for Your Casserole
Having the right tools makes all the difference when preparing this delicious Velveeta Green Bean Casserole. Here’s a list of the basic equipment you’ll need to ensure a smooth and successful cooking experience, from mixing to baking.
- 8×8 baking dish – This size is perfect for a standard batch of the casserole, yielding about 6 servings. Alternatively, a 9×9 inch baking dish can be used for a slightly thinner casserole with a similar yield.
- Silicone spatula – An indispensable tool for stirring the creamy filling. Its flexible yet sturdy nature ensures you can mix all ingredients thoroughly without scratching your saucepan or baking dish, and it’s excellent for scraping down the sides to minimize waste.
- Medium saucepan – Essential for heating the cream of mushroom soup and milk, and for melting the Velveeta cheese to create the smooth, rich sauce base. Choose a saucepan with a heavy bottom to ensure even heat distribution and prevent scorching.
Storage Tips for Leftover Casserole
Proper storage is essential to enjoy your delicious Velveeta Green Bean Casserole for days to come. While the casserole tastes best fresh, leftovers can be stored and reheated, though the crispy onions may lose some of their crunch.
Allow the leftover green bean casserole to cool completely to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation which can lead to sogginess. Once cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring an airtight seal. Alternatively, transfer the casserole to an airtight container. When properly stored, it will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 to 4 months. Be aware that the crispy onions will inevitably become soggy over time, whether refrigerated or frozen.
If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight before warming. To reheat the entire dish, cover it loosely with foil and bake in the oven at 300ºF (150ºC) until heated through (about 20-30 minutes, or longer if frozen). For single servings, the microwave works well; cover and heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring until hot. You can always add a fresh sprinkle of crispy fried onions after reheating for renewed crunch!
Make-Ahead Instructions for Convenience
Preparing your Velveeta Green Bean Casserole in advance is a fantastic way to save time, especially during busy holiday seasons. This dish holds up beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead option. Here’s how to prepare it ahead of time, whether for the fridge or the freezer.
To make the green bean casserole ahead of time, follow all the recipe instructions exactly as written, but stop just before adding the final crispy onion topping. This crucial step ensures that the onions remain delightfully crispy. **Do not add the topping until the day you plan to bake and serve the casserole.** Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge, uncover, add the crispy onions, and bake as instructed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the initial baking time to account for the chilled temperature.
For longer storage, the casserole can be frozen. Prepare the casserole mixture as described above (without the final onion topping). Cover the casserole dish securely with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Store it in the freezer for up to 3-4 months. When you’re ready to bake, transfer the frozen casserole to the refrigerator to thaw completely, ideally overnight. Once thawed, bake as instructed in the recipe, remembering to add the onion topping during the final baking stage to ensure maximum crispness. This make-ahead method is a lifesaver for holiday meal prep!
More Delicious Thanksgiving Side Dishes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of this creamy, cheesy Velveeta green bean casserole recipe, you’re in for a treat! Explore these other fantastic Thanksgiving side dishes that are sure to complement any festive spread. Each recipe brings its own unique flavor and texture, ensuring your holiday menu is full of variety and delicious options.
- Green Bean Casserole with Bacon
- Green Bean Casserole Double Recipe
- Green Bean Tater Tot Casserole
📖 Recipe
Pin Recipe
Save RecipeSaved!
Email
Print
Velveeta Green Bean Casserole
Equipment
-
8×8 baking dish
-
Silicone spatula
-
Medium saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces), for a rich and savory base
- ½ cup milk (whole milk recommended for ultimate creaminess)
- 8 ounces Velveeta (cubed for quick melting, ensures a smooth, velvety sauce)
- 4 cups frozen cut green beans (thawed; see notes for fresh or canned options)
- 1-½ cups crispy fried onions (divided; essential for both texture in the filling and a crunchy topping)
- ½ cup sour cream (adds creaminess and a subtle tang to balance the richness)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (for an umami boost and savory depth)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (provides a warm, aromatic flavor)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (adds a touch of spice and aromatic complexity)
- kosher salt (to taste; remember to adjust based on the saltiness of other ingredients)
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to ensure even and efficient baking.
-
In a medium saucepan, gently heat the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture is warmed through and begins to lightly simmer. Once hot, add the cubed Velveeta cheese and stir continuously until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
-
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the thawed green beans, half of the crispy fried onions, the sour cream, soy sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and kosher salt (to taste). Mix all ingredients thoroughly until everything is well combined and the green beans are evenly coated in the rich, cheesy sauce.
-
Transfer the green bean mixture evenly into an 8×8 inch baking dish (or 9×9 inch). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the edges are bubbly.
-
Carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Give it a gentle stir, then generously top with the remaining crispy fried onions. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and perfectly crisp, and the filling is bubbling vigorously. Serve hot and enjoy!
Video
Notes
Storage: To store leftovers, first allow the casserole to cool completely to room temperature. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 to 4 months. Be aware that the crispy onions will lose their crispness over time, becoming softer due to moisture.
Make Ahead Directions: For convenient meal prep, you can prepare this casserole in advance. Follow the recipe instructions precisely, but **do not add the crispy onion topping yet**. This step should be reserved for the day you plan to bake the casserole to ensure the onions remain crunchy. To freeze, cover the casserole dish securely with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and store in the freezer. Thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight before baking. When ready to serve, bake as instructed, and then add the onion topping before the final baking stage to achieve that perfect golden crunch.