What Can I Substitute for French Fried Onions in Green Bean Casserole?

Beth Ann Mayer
·2 min read
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French's French Fried Onions basically have a lock on the green bean casserole market. The crunchy, savory garnish is to the Thanksgiving side dish what Heinz ketchup is to burgers and fries: a BFF.

Unless it's not an option.

"If you wait to do your shopping at the last minute, you might also find that the store has sold out of this popular holiday ingredient," says Blair Lonergan, the founder of The Seasoned Mom.

Others just may not care for the fried alliums. "French fried onions have a fairly strong onion flavor, which doesn't necessarily appeal to everyone," Lonergan says.

However, show up to a Thanksgiving feast with a dish of untopped green bean casserole and you're going to get some looks. But don't worry, it is possible to cook a delicious green bean casserole sans fried onions. Experts shared worthy alternatives that may win over even the staunchest fans of the traditional garnish.

Related: 24 Best Green Bean Recipes

Easy French Fried Onion Alternatives for Green Bean Casserole

Reach for another crunchy pantry item...

Going off-recipe can feel like a hassle. However, Lonergan says you may already have an option in your pantry, taking up room on a shelf not occupied by the French fried onions you couldn't find.

"In lieu of crispy French fried onions on top of your casserole, try a different crunchy topping instead," Lonergan says.

Lonergan suggests:

  • Butter + Ritz cracker crumbs

  • Coarsely crushed potato chips

  • Butter + Corn Flakes cereal crumbs

  • Butter + Panko breadcrumbs with a dash of added garlic powder and/or onion powder to taste

"These options still provide that rich, buttery taste and crunchy texture we love so much in the fried onions," Lonergan says.

Related: The Best Type of Green Beans for Green Bean Casserole

...or grab something from the fridge

Lauren Allen, the owner and creator of recipe website Tastes Better From Scratch and an Amazon best-selling cookbook by the same name, suggests using the challenge of finding a French fried onion swap as a way to clear room in the fridge for leftovers.

"Sauteed diced onions will give onion flavor but not the crunch of fried onions," Allen says. "Just saute chopped onions in butter or oil until softened and lightly browned."

For meat-loving families, go for bacon, which makes everything better.

"Crumbled cooked bacon adds crunch, saltiness and a smoky flavor that complements the dish well," Allen says.

Green bean casserole, saved.

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