Creamy Holiday Ham and Green Bean Casserole Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a more complex flavor profile, add a pinch of black pepper or a dash of garlic powder to the mushroom sauce before mixing. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also be stirred into the mixture to add a bright, aromatic element that complements the savory ham.

Experimenting with these small additions can customize the casserole to suit specific preferences while maintaining the classic, comforting character of the original recipe.

If you prefer a thicker topping, try mixing the crispy fried onions with a tablespoon of melted butter or grated parmesan cheese before sprinkling them over the casserole. This creates a slightly more substantial crust that holds up well during the baking time. Always keep an eye on the oven during the final few minutes of baking to ensure the topping reaches the desired level of toastiness without becoming too dark or bitter.

Variations

• Cheesy Ham and Bean: Stir in one cup of shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese into the base mixture before baking for a rich, melted cheese flavor that complements the ham and mushrooms perfectly.
• Herbed Mushroom Casserole: Add two teaspoons of fresh chopped thyme or rosemary to the sauce mixture to provide an earthy, aromatic quality that pairs beautifully with the creamy mushroom base.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze the unbaked mixture without the onions for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before baking.

Reheat

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the whole dish in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Store any leftovers in the original baking dish by covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring the contents to an airtight container. Keep the casserole refrigerated and consume it within 3 to 4 days for the best quality and safety.

If you intend to save it for longer, portion the leftovers into individual containers before refrigerating, which makes it easier to grab a quick serving for lunch or dinner later in the week.

You can prepare the casserole base up to 24 hours in advance. Combine the green beans, ham, and mushroom sauce in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and keep it in the refrigerator. When you are ready to bake, remove the dish from the fridge about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven. Do not add the crispy fried onions until just before baking, as they will lose their crunch if stored in the refrigerator with the moist base.

Serving ideas

This casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven, as the crispy onion topping is at its peak immediately after baking. It pairs beautifully with roasted poultry, glazed pork chops, or even as a standalone vegetarian-style main if you omit the ham.

Serve it directly from the baking dish to maintain the temperature and ensure everyone gets a generous portion of the crispy topping, which is often the most sought-after part of the meal.

Consider serving this dish alongside a fresh, acidic salad to balance the richness of the creamy mushroom sauce. A simple green salad with a sharp vinaigrette or some roasted root vegetables provides a nice contrast in flavor and texture.

Because this casserole is quite hearty, it works well as a substantial side dish that complements both simple weeknight meals and elaborate holiday menus, making it a versatile addition to your regular cooking rotation.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Creamy Holiday Ham and Green Bean Casserole

Prep 10 minCook 30 minRest 5 minTotal 45 minServes 8

Ingredients

• 2 lbs cut green beans, fresh or canned and drained
• 2 cups diced cooked ham
• 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cut green beans and the diced cooked ham. Pour in the cream of mushroom soup and stir until the beans and ham are evenly coated with the creamy mixture. Transfer the mixture into the 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it out into an even layer.
2. Distribute the crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the green bean and ham mixture. Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 145°F (63°C). Let the dish rest for at least 3 minutes before serving.
3. Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This short resting period allows the creamy mushroom sauce to thicken slightly and settle, making it easier to serve with a spoon. Serve hot, ensuring each scoop includes plenty of the crispy onion topping.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

14.5 g

Carbohydrates

22 g

Fat

19.5 g

Fiber

4 g

Sugar

3 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.