Discover the quintessential Campbell soup green bean casserole recipe. It has been a staple at American dinner tables for generations. This classic side dish turns simple ingredients into a creamy, crunchy comfort food. It captures the essence of home cooking.
Your holiday meal isn’t complete without this iconic green bean casserole. It combines crispy fried onions, tender green beans, and rich cream of mushroom soup.
Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving or looking for a delicious side dish, this recipe delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. It’s packed with nostalgia and simplicity, making it a family favorite for decades.
Key Takeaways
- Classic holiday side dish that takes only 30 minutes to prepare
- Uses pantry-friendly ingredients from Campbell’s
- Serves 10 people with just one recipe
- Easily customizable with additional ingredients
- Perfect balance of creamy texture and crispy topping
Understanding the Classic Green Bean Casserole Legacy
The Green Bean Casserole is a beloved holiday side dish in American families. It was created in 1955 by Campbell’s employee Dorcas Reilly. Her recipe has become a Thanksgiving favorite in millions of homes.
This dish is special because it’s simple and easy to make. Reilly’s recipe used just five common ingredients. Most home cooks already had these in their pantry:
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Milk
- Soy sauce
- Cooked green beans
- French’s fried onions
The Three Essential Ingredients
The magic of this dish comes from its core ingredients. Green beans are the base, cream of mushroom soup makes it creamy, and fried onions add crunch. These ingredients have stayed the same, showing the recipe’s lasting appeal.
Evolution of an American Side Dish
Since its creation, the Green Bean Casserole has become a cultural icon. Approximately 30% of American households serve this dish during Thanksgiving. It’s a tradition that brings families together across generations.
Why It Remains a Holiday Favorite
The Green Bean Casserole remains popular for its ease and nostalgic taste. Over 40% of people see it as a traditional holiday dish. It continues to be a beloved part of American dinners, bringing families together with a simple yet tasty meal.
Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the perfect campbell soup green bean casserole is simple. This classic dish is quick to make with just a few ingredients. Follow these steps to make your cream of mushroom soup recipe a hit every time.
First, gather your ingredients. You’ll need:
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans of cut green beans
- 1 (10.5 oz) can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk (2% recommended)
- 6 ounces French’s Crispy Fried Onions
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Use a 13×9-inch baking dish. Drain the green beans well to avoid a soggy casserole. Mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk for a smooth base.
Next, mix the green beans with the soup mixture. Make sure every bean is coated. Add salt and pepper for extra taste. Put the mix in your baking dish and cover with crispy fried onions. Bake for 30-35 minutes until it’s hot and the onions are golden and crispy.
For an extra special touch, try adding a couple teaspoons of soy sauce or some shredded cheese on top before baking. This classic campbell soup green bean casserole recipe is sure to be a hit at any holiday meal!
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Casserole
Making a great green bean casserole begins with picking the right ingredients. Each part is key to getting that classic taste and texture we all love.
Choosing the Right Green Beans
For your green bean casserole, you can choose from a few green bean options:
- Canned green beans: The traditional pick, usually 3 (15.5 oz) cans of cut green beans
- Frozen green beans: A handy substitute, about 1½ pounds
- Fresh green beans: Needs blanching, roughly 1½ pounds
Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup Selection
Campbell’s condensed soup is the heart of this classic recipe. For the best cream of mushroom soup recipe, use 3 (10.5 oz) cans of Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup. This creamy base adds rich flavor and holds the casserole together.
| Soup Type | Best For | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Cream of Mushroom | Traditional Casserole | Mild, Creamy |
| Low Sodium Variety | Health-Conscious Cooking | Reduced Salt |
| Organic Cream of Mushroom | Premium Ingredients | Richer Mushroom Taste |
French’s Fried Onions and Alternatives
French’s fried onions give the casserole its signature crispy topping. Use 2 (6 oz) containers, sprinkling them generously over the casserole. If you’re out of French’s, you can try:
- Homemade crispy breadcrumbs
- Panko bread crumbs
- Crushed crackers
- Toasted sliced almonds
“The secret to a perfect green bean casserole lies in the quality of your ingredients.” – Culinary Expert
For a delicious dessert pairing, check out the banana pudding crunch cheesecake recipe for a sweet finish to your meal.
Elevating Your Casserole with Bacon and Mushrooms
Turn your green bean casserole into a delicious comfort food by adding bacon and mushrooms. These ingredients will make your side dish even better.
Begin by cutting 6 strips of bacon into 1/4-inch pieces. The crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor that goes well with the creamy green beans. Also, add 1 1/2 cups of chopped button mushrooms for a richer taste.
- Cook bacon until slightly crisp
- Sauté mushrooms in bacon fat
- Layer ingredients carefully in casserole dish
- Blend bacon and mushrooms throughout the green bean mixture
Choose fresh button or cremini mushrooms for the best taste. They soak up the bacon’s savory flavor, making your casserole irresistibly umami.
Pro tip: Drain the bacon grease before adding mushrooms. This keeps your casserole light but full of flavor.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture
Creating the perfect green bean casserole is all about precision and technique. It’s about turning a simple dish into a culinary masterpiece that wows everyone. Mastering texture is key to making it a true comfort food delight.
Moisture Management Strategies
To avoid a soggy green bean casserole, you need to control moisture. Too much liquid can ruin your dish, making it mushy.
- Drain green beans thoroughly before mixing
- Pat beans dry with clean kitchen towels
- Use fresh or frozen beans (not canned) for best results
- Consider blanching beans for optimal texture
Crispy Topping Techniques
The perfect green bean casserole has a crispy exterior. Layering and timing are key to getting that crunch.
| Technique | Impact on Texture |
|---|---|
| Add crispy onions last 10 minutes | Prevents soggy topping |
| Use cornstarch slurry | Thickens sauce without excess moisture |
| Broil for 2-3 minutes | Creates golden-brown crispy layer |
With these expert texture tips, your green bean casserole will truly shine. The secret is balancing moisture, keeping elements crisp, and letting each ingredient add its own special touch to this beloved comfort food.
Make-Ahead Instructions and Storage Tips
Planning ahead can make your Thanksgiving casserole easy and stress-free. You don’t have to worry about complicated preparation when you follow the right steps.
Preparing your green bean casserole early is a big help for busy cooks. You can put it all together up to 4 days before serving. Just make sure to store it in the fridge carefully.
- Prep components separately to maintain optimal texture
- Store green beans and sauce independently for best results
- Add crispy fried onions just before baking to prevent sogginess
If you want to store it longer, your casserole can be frozen for 2-3 months. To serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.
| Storage Method | Duration | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days | Cover tightly with aluminum foil |
| Freezer | 2-3 months | Use airtight freezer-safe container |
“Preparation is the secret ingredient to a stress-free holiday meal!” – Professional Chef
Pro tip: Keep fried onions separate until the final 5 minutes of baking. This way, they stay crispy for your perfect holiday side dish.
Nutritional Information and Health Considerations
Your campbell soup green bean casserole recipe is more than just a comfort food. It’s a journey into nutrition. Knowing the health aspects of this dish lets you make better choices while still enjoying it.
When you make this classic side dish, you’ll want to know what you’re serving. A single cup gives you a nutritional snapshot:
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 233.5 kcal |
| Total Fat | 21.2 g |
| Protein | 5.7 g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 7.6 g |
| Net Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fiber | 1.6 g |
| Sugar | 4.1 g |
Dietary Modifications
For those with specific dietary needs, this comfort food can be adapted:
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup
- Low-fat version: Replace full-fat cream with low-fat alternatives
- Vegetarian adaptation: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth
- Dairy-free alternative: Use dairy-free cream cheese and milk substitutes
“Nutrition doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor – it’s about making smart, delicious choices.” – Culinary Nutritionist
Remember, while this campbell soup green bean casserole recipe is a delightful treat, moderation is key. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet. Don’t be afraid to try healthier ingredient swaps that keep the dish’s classic taste.
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect campbell soup green bean casserole needs focus. Even skilled cooks can mess up, affecting taste and texture.
- Sodium Overload: Canned foods can have up to 400 mg of sodium per serving, making your casserole too salty
- Green beans can become mushy and lose color if overcooked
- Adding crispy onion topping too early can cause it to burn
- Not using enough thickening agents can make the casserole watery
Here are key tips to avoid common mistakes in your green bean casserole:
- Pre-cook fresh green beans for 5-7 minutes to get a tender-crisp texture
- Use 1-2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch for the right thickness
- Add crispy onion topping only in the last 15 minutes of baking
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for even cooking
“The secret to a perfect green bean casserole is balance and timing” – Home Cooking Experts
It’s also crucial to store your casserole right. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking and eat them in 3-4 days. When freezing, label containers and use within 2-3 months for best quality.
| Mistake | Consequence | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Oversalting | Unpalatable dish | Use low-sodium ingredients |
| Overcooking beans | Mushy texture | Cook until tender-crisp |
| Soggy topping | Lack of crunch | Add crispy onions late in cooking |
Avoiding these mistakes will help you make a delicious green bean casserole. It will surely impress your family and friends at any event.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
Your thanksgiving casserole is more than just a side dish. It’s a culinary centerpiece that can elevate any holiday menu. Green bean casserole has become a beloved staple for 75% of Thanksgiving dinners across the United States. It’s an essential component of your festive spread.
When planning your holiday side dish, consider these strategic serving recommendations:
- Pair with classic roast turkey or honey-glazed ham
- Complement roast beef or grilled chicken dishes
- Serve alongside traditional holiday stuffing
- Offer as a versatile year-round vegetable accompaniment
Portion Planning
This recipe serves approximately 10 people. Each serving provides a balanced nutritional profile with about 208 calories and 12g of total fat. Pro tip: Always prepare slightly more than you think you’ll need!
Presentation Tips
Transform your green bean casserole from simple side dish to visual masterpiece. Use a white ceramic baking dish to make the golden-brown French fried onion topping pop. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thinly sliced almonds for an elegant touch.
Remember that 70% of cooks recommend serving this dish throughout the year, not just during holidays. Its versatility makes it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners and potluck gatherings alike.
Variations and Creative Twists
Turn your classic green bean casserole into a fun culinary journey. This beloved comfort food can be made exciting with new ingredients and techniques. You can easily make it more interesting.
Try these tasty variations to make your Campbell’s condensed soup-based green bean casserole unforgettable:
- Cheese Lover’s Twist: Add shredded Monterey Jack or sharp cheddar cheese for extra richness
- Spicy Southern Style: Mix in diced jalapeños and a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick
- Gourmet Mushroom Upgrade: Add wild mushrooms like shiitake or porcini for deeper flavor
- Nutty Crunch Edition: Sprinkle toasted almonds or pecans on top for added texture
Regional twists can make your green bean casserole truly unique. For example, a Southwest version might include green chiles. A Mediterranean version could add herbs like rosemary and thyme.
Looking for healthier options? Try these:
- Use fresh green beans instead of canned
- Replace regular cream of mushroom soup with a low-fat version
- Experiment with plant-based milk alternatives
Your green bean casserole can be a canvas for culinary creativity. It can keep its classic charm while being new and exciting!
Conclusion
The Campbell’s green bean casserole recipe is a classic American dish loved by many. It has been a favorite at holiday meals and family dinners for decades. It was first made in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly.
Learning to make this recipe shows how simple ingredients can make something special. It uses green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and fried onions. These ingredients come together to make a dish that brings families together.
This dish is perfect for both experienced cooks and beginners. It’s easy to make and only takes 45 minutes. You probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already. This makes it easy to start your own tradition with this recipe.
Enjoy the warmth and nostalgia of this casserole. Try different variations and make memories with every serving. It’s a dish that brings people together.
FAQ
What makes Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole such a classic holiday dish?
The Green Bean Casserole has been a favorite since 1955. It’s made with green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and French’s fried onions. This mix creates a warm side dish that brings back memories of family and Thanksgiving.
Can I make Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it up to 24 hours in advance. Just put all the ingredients in a dish, cover it, and refrigerate. Before baking, take it out 30 minutes early and follow the usual steps.
Are there alternatives to French’s Fried Onions for the topping?
Absolutely! You can use homemade breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, sliced almonds, or panko breadcrumbs. This way, you can customize the dish or if you don’t have French’s Fried Onions.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Fresh green beans work great. Just blanch them and drain well to avoid extra moisture. Frozen green beans are also a good alternative to canned.
How can I make the casserole healthier?
To make it healthier, use low-fat cream of mushroom soup and reduced-sodium versions. Add more fresh veggies. You can also use less fried onions or replace them with toasted nuts for a crunchier topping.
What are some creative variations of the classic recipe?
Add crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, shredded cheese, or herbs like thyme and rosemary. Try different onion toppings or add gruyère cheese for a fancy twist.
How do I prevent my Green Bean Casserole from becoming soggy?
Drain your green beans well and avoid extra liquid. Layer the ingredients carefully. Add the crispy onion topping in the last 10-15 minutes of baking to keep it crunchy.
Can I freeze Green Bean Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it in aluminum foil and freeze for up to a month. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as usual, maybe adding a few minutes.