Classic Homemade Green Bean Casserole

This Green Bean Casserole is a HIT! If you're looking for a way to elevate your holiday favorites, this dish is super special.
Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/3 cups crispy fried onions (French's Fried Onions)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Blanch Green Beans:
   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are bright green and slightly tender. Drain and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again.
3. Prepare Sauce:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and soy sauce if using. Mix well.
4. Combine Green Beans and Sauce:
   • Add the blanched green beans to the sauce mixture and stir until the beans are well coated.
5. Add Fried Onions:
   • Stir in 2/3 cup of the crispy fried onions into the green bean mixture.
6. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
   • Transfer the green bean mixture to a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the mixture is heated through and bubbly.
8. Top with Cheese and Onions:
   • If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking.
   • Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining crispy fried onions on top.
9. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

This Green Bean Casserole is a HIT! If you're looking for a way to elevate your holiday favorites, this dish is super special.