This Green Bean and Potato Casserole is a simple, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing side. With minimal prep time and just a handful of ingredients, it’s a no-fuss recipe everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 2 (15 oz) cans diced potatoes, drained
- 2 (14 oz) cans green beans, drained
- 1 lb shredded Colby cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a small casserole dish to prevent sticking. - Combine the Ingredients
In the prepared casserole dish, mix together the diced potatoes, green beans, shredded Colby cheese, and condensed cream of chicken soup. Stir everything until well combined, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed. - Bake Covered
Cover the dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. - Bake Uncovered
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is lightly browned.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole alongside your favorite protein, like roasted chicken or baked ham, or enjoy it as a standalone meal. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or even a casual family dinner!
Recipe Variations
If you’re feeling creative or want to add your own twist, here are some delicious ways to mix things up:
- Add Meat
- Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon can add a savory crunch. Stir it into the mix before baking or sprinkle it on top after baking.
- Ham: For a heartier dish, diced ham works great with the flavors of green beans and potatoes.
- Ground Beef or Sausage: Cooked and crumbled ground beef or sausage can add a whole new dimension to the casserole, making it more like a full meal.
- Change the Cheese
- Cheddar: If you’re a cheddar fan, feel free to substitute Colby cheese for sharp or mild cheddar.
- Pepper Jack: For a little kick, shredded pepper jack cheese works great!
- Swap the Soup
- Cream of Mushroom: For a vegetarian version or simply a different flavor profile, swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup.
- Cream of Celery: Another tasty alternative that adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Extra Veggies
- Mushrooms, Corn, or Carrots: Mix in canned or fresh veggies like mushrooms, corn, or carrots for a more veggie-packed casserole.
Tips for Making the Perfect Green Bean and Potato Casserole
- Drain the Veggies
Make sure to drain the canned potatoes and green beans thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in your casserole. - Use Fresh Ingredients
If you prefer using fresh potatoes and green beans, go ahead! Just make sure to cook them first (boil or steam) before adding them to the casserole. - Cheese Melting Tip
For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle some extra shredded cheese on top of the casserole for the last 5 minutes of baking. - Make it Ahead
You can prepare this casserole ahead of time by assembling everything, covering it tightly, and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh green beans and potatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans and potatoes work wonderfully in this casserole. Just make sure to boil or steam them first until tender before mixing them with the other ingredients. - What’s a good substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or even cream of potato soup if you’re looking for a vegetarian option or just want to switch up the flavor. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Definitely! Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses will work. Colby cheese adds a mild creaminess, but any melting cheese can be substituted based on your preference. - What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with roasted meats, like chicken, turkey, or ham. It’s also great alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread.
Final Thoughts
This Green Bean and Potato Casserole is an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy evenings or as a side at family gatherings. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, you can have a delicious, comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.
Don’t be afraid to customize the recipe to suit your taste. Whether you like to keep it simple or load it up with extra ingredients, this casserole is versatile and sure to be a hit at the dinner table!