Cup of Yum
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray on a 9x3-inch oven-safe baking dish and set it aside.

Casserole:

Cup of Yum
1. In this category, we will use ingredients from the "Casserole" list. If you are using canned green beans, drain them and set them aside.
2. If using fresh green beans, wash them and trim the ends.
3. 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.
4. Drain green beans and immediately place them under cold water. Drain cold water and set green beans aside.
5. Add cream of mushroom soup to a large bowl. Add milk and chicken broth and stir to combine.
6. Add finely diced onion, garlic, thyme, paprika, and ground black pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Add the green beans, cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of French fried onions to the bowl.
8. Stir well to combine, and add the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
9. Level the top with a spatula.

Topping:

1. We will use ingredients from the "Topping" list in this category.
2. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
3. Distribute 1 cup of French fried onions (reserve the other cup for later) evenly on top of the casserole.

Bake:

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

Homemade French Fried Onions:

1. In this category, we will use ingredients from the "Homemade French Fried Onions" list. If you decide to make your own French fried onions, use this recipe.
2. After slicing the onion rings, separate them into individual rings and add them to a large bowl.
3. Add 2 cups of milk to the onion rings and let soak for 20 minutes.
4. Mix flour, salt, garlic powder, and ground black pepper in a medium bowl. Whisk to combine.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Remove the French-fried onions and place them on a baking sheet covered with paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Repeat with the remaining onion rings.