Air Fryer Magic: Green Bean Casserole Perfection

Green bean casserole is a classic American dish that can be made in an air fryer. It is a perfect side dish for holiday dinners or weeknight meals, as it is easy to make and can be prepared in advance. The casserole typically includes green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk or half-and-half, and fried onions, with the option to add cheese, bacon, or other ingredients for extra flavour. The dish is cooked in the air fryer for around 10-15 minutes, with an additional 2-3 minutes to brown the onions on top.

Using fresh, frozen or canned green beans

You can use fresh, frozen, or canned green beans to make a green bean casserole in an air fryer. Here's a guide to help you achieve the best results:

Using Fresh Green Beans:

If you're using fresh green beans, it's best to blanch them before adding them to the casserole. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the cut green beans, and cook for about 6-7 minutes or until tender. Then, place them in ice water to stop the cooking process, drain the water, and pat the beans dry. This will give your casserole a brighter colour and a bit of texture.

Using Frozen Green Beans:

If you're using frozen green beans, it's important not to overcook them before adding them to the casserole. Simply rinse them to thaw, and then drain and pat them dry. Overcooking or boiling frozen green beans can make them mushy. You can also add them to the casserole straight from frozen, but you may need to increase the cooking time to ensure they're cooked through.

Using Canned Green Beans:

Canned green beans are a convenient option as they save time on chopping and trimming. Simply drain the liquid from the can and add the beans directly to your other ingredients. Canned beans tend to have a softer texture than fresh or frozen beans, so they can be a good choice if you prefer a creamier casserole.

Regardless of which type of green beans you use, the cooking process in the air fryer remains the same. Combine your beans with the other ingredients, such as cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper, in a medium mixing bowl or your air fryer-safe baking dish. Transfer the mixture to the air fryer basket or shelf and cook at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through. Top with crispy fried onions and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

The importance of seasoning

Seasoning is an essential component of green bean casserole, and can elevate the dish from bland to bursting with flavour. While the classic combination of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and fried onions already creates a tasty dish, adding seasonings can enhance the flavours and create a more complex and satisfying taste profile.

The type and amount of seasoning used in green bean casserole can be adjusted to suit personal preferences. Salt and pepper are commonly used to enhance the flavours of the dish. Additionally, garlic powder and onion powder are often added to boost the savoury flavour and create a more well-rounded dish. These seasonings complement the other ingredients in the casserole, such as the cream of mushroom soup and fried onions, creating a harmonious blend of flavours.

Furthermore, seasonings can be used to add a personal touch to the dish. For example, soy sauce can be used instead of salt to impart an umami flavour. This substitution not only reduces the overall salt content of the dish but also adds a unique savoury note that enhances the overall taste experience. Similarly, other seasonings like cayenne pepper or black pepper can be added to give the casserole a spicy kick.

Additionally, seasonings can be used to balance the flavours in the dish. For instance, if the casserole is too creamy or rich, adding a dash of salt or pepper can help cut through the creaminess and provide a more well-rounded taste. Conversely, if the dish is too dry or bland, adding more cream or milk can help to moisten it, and seasonings like garlic powder or onion powder can boost the savoury flavour.

In conclusion, seasoning plays a crucial role in the success of green bean casserole. It allows cooks to personalise the dish, enhance flavours, and create a more satisfying and memorable eating experience. By adjusting the type and amount of seasoning, cooks can ensure that their green bean casserole is not only tasty but also a dish that their family and friends will enjoy and remember.

The role of fried onions

The fried onions are an essential component of the green bean casserole, adding a layer of texture and flavour to the dish. The onions are fried until brown and crispy, providing a crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy casserole. This topping is what makes the casserole so popular, and it's this combination of textures and flavours that makes it a staple at holiday dinners.

The fried onions are usually mixed with the green beans and other ingredients, such as cream of mushroom soup, milk, and seasonings, before being baked in the air fryer. The onions add a savoury taste to the casserole, enhancing the overall flavour profile. They also provide a satisfying crunch when biting into the dish, making it a favourite among those who enjoy a mix of textures in their food.

Additionally, the fried onions can be used as a topping to add extra flavour and texture. Some recipes call for sprinkling the fried onions on top of the casserole before returning it to the air fryer for a few minutes to brown and melt the cheese. This step not only enhances the visual appeal of the dish but also ensures that every bite is packed with the delicious taste of fried onions.

The quantity of fried onions used can be adjusted to personal preference. Some recipes call for half of the fried onions to be mixed with the green beans, while the remaining onions are used as a topping. This allows for a balanced distribution of flavour and texture throughout the casserole.

Overall, the fried onions play a crucial role in the taste, appearance, and texture of the green bean casserole. They elevate the dish from a simple side to a mouthwatering and indulgent treat, making it a beloved classic at holiday dinners.

How to make a vegan version

Vegan Green Bean Casserole in the Air Fryer

Ingredients

• 1 can of condensed vegan cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup of unsweetened vegan milk (or milk alternative)
• 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 4 cups of cut green beans (about 2 cans of green beans)
• 1 1/2 cups of vegan crispy fried onions

Optional Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 cup of vegan cheddar cheese, grated (optional)
• 4 ounces of vegan cream cheese, softened (optional)
• 11 ounces of mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder

Utensils

• Air fryer
• Air fryer-safe baking dish
• Medium mixing bowl
• Large bowl
• Sieve
• Skillet
• Plate lined with paper towels
• Glass container
• Immersion blender

Method

• Combine the soup, milk, salt, and pepper in a medium mixing bowl or baking dish. Stir together.
• Add in the drained beans and half of the crispy onions.
• Transfer the green bean mixture to a baking dish.
• Place the dish in the air fryer basket and cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes. Stir halfway through the cooking process.
• Remove the dish from the air fryer and top with the remaining crispy onions.
• Cook for an additional 2-5 minutes, until the onions are golden brown.
• (Optional) If using cheese, sprinkle it on top and allow it to melt.

Notes

• If using fresh green beans, pre-cook and drain any excess water before adding them to the mixture. Frozen beans should be thawed and drained as well.
• You can make this dish 2-3 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook it.
• For extra crunch and flavor, you can add toppings such as vegan bacon pieces, fresh mushrooms, or garlic.

How to store leftovers

Storing leftovers of air fryer green bean casserole is simple!

Firstly, it's important to note that this dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, it can be stored in a container for up to 3 months.

If you're planning to eat your leftovers within a few days, simply cover the casserole or place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge.

If you want to freeze your leftovers, it's best to transfer them to a freezer-safe container and store them in the freezer. This dish doesn't freeze particularly well due to the dairy and fried toppings, but it can be done if needed.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them in the oven, microwave, or air fryer until they're heated through. If you're reheating from frozen, be sure to thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight before reheating.

You can also get creative with your leftovers and use them in other dishes. For example, you could try adding them to pasta, salads, burritos, or macaroni and cheese.

Frequently asked questions