The best way to reheat leftover green bean casserole is by simply microwaving before serving. From cooked green beans, creamy mushroom sauce and French fried onions, no wonder why it is such a popular side dish for Thanksgiving dinner.
The problem with leftover green bean casserole is that it never tastes as good when reheated. When the casserole has been stored in the fridge for more than a couple of days, it may no longer taste freshly made.
How do you reheat green bean casserole in the microwave? Place the green bean casserole in a microwave-safe bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Make a few hole to release any excess steam during the reheating process.
Microwave the dish on medium power for 1 minute for single serving or 90 seconds for a larger portion. Stir the green bean casserole and heat it again for 30 second intervals until reaching the internal temperature of 74 degrees Celsius or 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you are experiencing soggy and runny green bean casserole when reheated, we are here to share microwave tips so it taste as good as before.
This article will show you how to reheat green bean casserole in the microwave with all the steps and instructions you’ll need. Answered below are frequently asked questions about microwaving leftover green bean casserole the very best way.
Can you reheat green bean casserole in the microwave?
Yes, you can reheat green bean casserole in the microwave. In fact, you can prevent the casserole from becoming soggy or runny when heated up properly.
Reheating green bean casserole in the microwave is a quick and easy way to get the leftover side dishes out of the fridge and onto your dinner plate without sacrificing quality or taste.
Is it safe to reheat green bean casserole in the microwave?
Yes, it is safe to reheat green bean casserole in the microwave. As long as the vegetable side dish is reheated to an internal temperature of 74 degrees Celsius or 165 degrees Fahrenheit then it is considered safe to eat.
The string beans and creamy sauce in green bean casserole create the perfect environment for some serious steam buildup, which can really help to heat the dish quickly.
How do I reheat green bean casserole in the microwave?
Green bean casserole is easily reheated in the microwave. But the main issue is to prevent it from turning into a soggy or mushy texture when heated too long.
Be extra careful and make sure to not leave the casserole unattended while heating or it will definitely overcook.
Transfer the leftover green bean casserole to a shallow microwave-safe bowl that is large enough for the amount to fit comfortably without overlapping very much.
If the casserole looks dried out from storing in the fridge too long time, add one tablespoon of water, milk, or broth and stir well.
Cover with a lid, damp paper towel or plastic wrap and microwave for 1 minute on medium heat or 50% power. Ensure the lid has holes for steam to escape.
Stir after each interval and continue microwave for 30 seconds until it is completely reheated to an internal temp of 74 degrees Celsius or 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long does it take to reheat green bean casserole?
For single portion, it takes about 2 minutes to microwave on medium power. And for two or more portion will take about 3 minutes to reheat fully.
To find the perfect microwave time to reheat green bean casserole, it will vary based on the amount per serving, power setting and appliance wattage.
For this vegetable casserole, it is highly recommended to microwave on reheat power level instead of full power. This will gradually raise the temperature instead of sudden increase which result in uneven heat or may burn sauce.
Frequently stirring is the key to evenly heat the dish. Depending on how cold or frozen the green bean casserole is, add 30 to 60 seconds increments to successfully reheat in the microwave.
Tips to reheat green bean casserole in the microwave
Depending on whether you are reheating a green bean casserole that has been stored in the fridge or freezer, there are a couple of different things to watch out for.
- If you have kept the leftover green bean casserole in the refrigerator, make sure that all the food is at room temperature before mixing it with the cheese sauce.
- The slower the food heats up, the better it’s going to taste when it’s all cooked. It’s important to lower the power level to 50% heat or use the reheat setting when microwaving green bean casserole.
- Keeping a microwave cover, damp paper towel or microwave safe plastic wrap over the top of the green bean casserole while in the microwave will help prevent splatters, trap steam and reduce cooking time. Leave a few holes in the seal to release steam so the result is not as soggy.
- For a large quantity of leftovers, allow the green bean casserole to come to room temperature for 30 minutes, and microwave a small portion at a time.
- Do not reheat the green bean casserole at full power as the sudden temperature increase may burn or dry out the leftovers.
- If the green bean casserole looks dry, add a spoonful of water, milk or broth and mix well prior to microwaving it.
Best way to reheat green bean casserole in the microwave
Reheating green bean casserole isn’t difficult, but careful warming will provide a better result. Successfully reheat green bean casserole in the microwave without drying out the food or leaving unappealingly mushy.
Place the leftover green bean casserole on a microwave safe bowl. Ensure the bowl is shallow but deep enough to fill the dish in an even layer without overcrowding.
Add a splash or water, milk or broth if needed to make it slightly moist so it does not completely dry out when microwaved.
Punch a few holes in the plastic wrap or cover the dish with a lid or damp paper towel. If you have a lid that has vented holes, use it instead.
Start microwaving for 1 minute on medium heat or 50% power. Stir, then add 30 seconds intervals with frequent stirring to evenly coat the heat.
Once the casserole is fully reheated, toss favorite topping or pair with a main dish for an enjoyable meal.
Reheat Green Bean Casserole in Microwave: Conclusion
Reheating green bean casserole in the microwave is quick and easy way to get the job done. However, without paying attention and lengthy microwave time can result in mushy or soggy casserole that is not pleasant to eat.
In order to sustain the freshness and texture of the green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crunchy fried topping, lower the microwave power and reheat small portions at a time.
Use microwave-safe container to fill with a serving and cover with microwaveable lid, wetted paper towel or plastic wrap to trap steam and heat more evenly.
Microwave on 50% power for 1 minute. Stir after a minute and continue to run additional 30 seconds intervals depending on how cold or frozen casserole started out.
Repeat the process until it reaches an internal temperature of 74 degrees Celsius or 165 degrees Fahrenheit for it to serve safely. Garnish with extra fried onion or pair with reheated turkey, meatloaf or ham to make a fulfilling and wholesome meal.
Use these microwave tips and techniques to reheat green bean casserole in quickly. As a result, your next batch of leftovers will come out just as delicious as it was when it was freshly made.