• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
• Lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray a 9x3 oven-safe baking dish and set aside.

Casserole:

• In this category, we will be using ingredients from the "Casserole" list.
• If you are using canned green beans, just drain them and set them aside.
• If using fresh green beans, wash them and trim the ends.
• Bring a large pot of water to a boil, season with just a sprinkle of salt, and cook fresh green beans in the boiling water for 5-6 minutes, until green beans start to change color to deep green and become slightly tender. Stir occasionally.
• Drain green beans and immediately place them under cold water. Drain cold water and set green beans aside.
• Add cream of mushroom soup to a large bowl. Add milk and chicken broth, stir to combine.
• Add finely diced onion, garlic, thyme, paprika, and ground black pepper. Stir to combine.
• Add the green beans to the bowl, cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of French fried onions.
• Stir well to combine and add the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
• Level the top with a spatula.

Topping:

• In this category, we will be using ingredients from the "Topping" list.
• Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
• Distribute 1 cup of French fried onions (reserve the other cup for later) evenly on top of the casserole.

Bake:

• Bake the casserole in the preheated oven until the cheese melts and the onions start to brown, for about 20 minutes.
• Add the remaining cup of French fried onions and bake for another 10 minutes.
• Serve hot or at room temperature.

Homemade French Fried Onions:

• In this category, we will be using ingredients from the "Homemade French Fried Onions" list. If you decide to make your own French fried onions use this recipe.
• After slicing the onion rings, separate them into individual rings and add them to a large bowl.
• Add 2 cups of milk to the onion rings and let soak for 20 minutes.
• In a medium bowl combine: flour, salt, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Whisk to combine.
• When ready to cook, add oil to a large, deep skillet over high heat (or deep fryer). If using a skillet, it should be 1/2 full with oil.
• Once the oil is hot, working in batches, add a handful of onion rings to the flour mixture, cover well and shake any excess. Add the onion rings to the hot oil and fry until golden brown, stirring often.
• Remove the French fried onions and place them on a baking sheet that has been covered with paper towels to drain excess oil.
• Repeat with the remaining onion rings.