Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is one of America’s most iconic holiday side dishes, beloved for its creamy texture, tender green beans, and irresistibly crispy fried onion topping. Made with Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup, fresh or canned green beans, milk, and crunchy French fried onions, this classic casserole is simple to prepare yet delivers rich, comforting flavors that have become a staple at Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and family gatherings.
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole:
Originally created as a quick and convenient recipe, Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole has earned a permanent place on dinner tables across the country. Its combination of creamy mushroom sauce and crispy onions creates a perfect balance of textures, while the green beans add freshness and color. Best of all, it requires only a handful of ingredients and can be assembled in minutes.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply looking for an easy vegetable side dish for a weeknight meal, Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a dependable favorite. Its timeless flavor, easy preparation, and crowd-pleasing appeal make it a recipe you’ll return to year after year.
History:
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole was created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly, a home economist working in the Campbell Soup Company test kitchen. The goal was to develop a simple recipe using everyday pantry ingredients that busy home cooks already had on hand, including Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup and canned green beans.
The recipe quickly became one of the most famous casseroles in American culinary history. It has remained a centerpiece of Thanksgiving dinners for decades and is often considered one of the most popular holiday side dishes in the United States. Today, countless variations exist, but the original Campbell’s recipe continues to be cherished for its simplicity and nostalgic flavor.
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Campbell's Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 cups green beans (fresh, frozen, or 2 cans of cut green beans, drained)
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can Campbell's Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1⅓ cups French fried onions, divided
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 1½-quart casserole dish.
- If using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 5 minutes, then transfer to ice water and drain.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Campbell's Cream of Mushroom Soup, milk, soy sauce, garlic powder (if using), and black pepper until smooth.
- Stir in the green beans and ⅔ cup of the French fried onions.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese if you prefer an extra cheesy casserole.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining French fried onions evenly over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake for 5 more minutes, or until the onions are golden and crispy.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Fresh green beans provide the best texture and flavor.
- Frozen green beans are a convenient alternative.
- Drain canned beans thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
- Add cheddar cheese for a richer casserole.
- Soy sauce enhances the savory mushroom flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze before adding the crispy onion topping for the best results.
- Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy topping.
Tips for Green Bean Casserole:
- Blanch fresh green beans to keep them vibrant and crisp-tender.
- Add crispy bacon for extra flavor.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms for a deeper earthy taste.
- Use freshly ground black pepper for better seasoning.
- Add the final onion topping only during the last few minutes of baking.
- Avoid overcooking the green beans to preserve their texture.
- Prepare the casserole a day ahead and bake before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and freshness.
FAQs for Green Bean Casserole:
Q: Can I prepare Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole without the final onion topping, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the remaining onions just before the final bake.
Q: Can I freeze Green Bean Casserole?
Yes. Freeze the casserole before adding the crispy onion topping. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding fresh onions near the end.
Q: Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely. Fresh green beans provide the best texture and flavor. Blanch them before assembling the casserole.
Q: Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes. Thaw and drain them well before mixing with the sauce.
Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes. Campbell’s vegetarian cream of mushroom soup or a homemade mushroom sauce can be used to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Q: Why are my fried onions soggy?
Adding the final layer of onions too early can make them soft. Always add them during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Q: What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar, Gruyère, Swiss, or Parmesan all complement the creamy mushroom sauce.
Q: What dishes pair well with Green Bean Casserole?
Serve it alongside roast turkey, baked ham, roast chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, or dinner rolls.
Conclusion:
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole has remained a cherished American classic for generations thanks to its creamy mushroom sauce, tender green beans, and crispy fried onion topping. Quick to prepare, affordable, and packed with comforting flavors, it’s the perfect side dish for holiday celebrations or everyday family dinners. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or add your own creative twist, this timeless casserole is sure to impress guests and become a favorite on your table.