There’s something undeniably cozy about the sight of a delicious green bean casserole bubbling away in the oven, especially when it’s made with the classic Campbell’s recipe that brings back fond memories. Imagine the warmth of a family gathering, the laughter echoing around the table, and the irresistible aroma inviting everyone to indulge in comfort food at its finest. I’ve often found that life’s biggest joys can be found in the simple act of baking a casserole—a dish that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul.
As someone who appreciates homemade meals in a world filled with fast food temptations, this Campbells Green Bean Casserole is a lifesaver. It combines the earthy flavor of green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and a glorious crunch from crispy fried onions, all in under an hour! Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a holiday spread, this recipe never fails to impress. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this nostalgic dish that’s bound to become a staple at your table!
Why You'll Love This Campbells Green Bean Casserole
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The combination of tender green beans and creamy mushroom soup creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying.
- Its versatility means it’s perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings, ensuring it suits any occasion.
- Plus, the crispy fried onions on top give the casserole a wonderful visual appeal that makes it an instant crowd-pleaser.
- You won’t believe how quickly it comes together, making it a time-saving option for busy days.
Campbells Green Bean Casserole Ingredients
• The key to a classic dish!
For the Casserole
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup – the rich, creamy base that gives this Campbells Green Bean Casserole its comforting flavor.
- 1/2 cup milk – adds creaminess; you can substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- 1 tsp soy sauce – enhances the savory taste; feel free to use low-sodium for a healthier choice.
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper – adds a slight kick, balancing the creaminess of the soup.
- 4 cups green beans – fresh, frozen, or canned; fresh green beans provide the best texture!
For the Topping
- 1 1/3 cups crispy fried onions – provides the signature crunch; use homemade if you want to elevate this dish even more!
How to Make Campbells Green Bean Casserole
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Prepare Green Beans: Start by if using frozen green beans, fully thaw and drain them. For fresh beans, trim and cut into 2-inch pieces, then blanch in salted boiling water until tender-crisp before draining. Canned beans just need a good drain!
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven temperature to a cozy 350°F. This helps get the casserole bubbling perfectly while it bakes.
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Measure Fried Onions: Divide your crispy fried onions into two portions: keep about 2/3 cup for mixing into the casserole and save the extra 1/3 cup for that irresistible crispy topping.
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Mix Sauce: Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and soy sauce. Blend until everything is smooth and well combined for a creamy base.
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Combine Ingredients: To the soup mixture, gently fold in your drained green beans, the 2/3 cup of fried onions, and sprinkle in the black pepper. Make sure those green beans are lovely and coated!
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the green bean mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25 minutes.
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Stir & Top: Once done, carefully remove the casserole and give it a gentle stir to mix in the bubbling sauce. Sprinkle on the reserved 1/3 cup of fried onions for that delightful crunch.
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Final Bake: Return your casserole to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the onions are a beautiful golden brown and the dish is bubbling gently.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an added pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Campbells Green Bean Casserole
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the casserole unbaked in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating: If reheating, warm individual portions in the microwave, or bake the whole casserole at 350°F until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
Covering: Always cover with foil or a lid while reheating to retain moisture and prevent drying out. Enjoy your Campbells Green Bean Casserole warmth whenever you crave it!
Campbells Green Bean Casserole Variations
Feel free to give this classic recipe a personal touch and delight your taste buds with these easy swaps!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond or oat milk for the regular milk to create a creamy, dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
- Mushroom Lovers: Add sautéed fresh mushrooms to the mix for an extra earthy flavor that complements the cream of mushroom soup beautifully.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese before baking for a rich, cheesy layer that’s simply irresistible.
- Hearty Protein: Enhance the dish with cooked diced turkey or chicken for a protein boost that’ll turn this side into a satisfying main course.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the mix for a subtle heat that adds excitement.
- Crunchy Alternatives: Swap out fried onions for crispy panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter for a lighter crunch and different texture.
- Vegetable Medley: Toss in other veggies like corn or diced bell peppers to add a vibrant pop of color and nutrition.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the soup mixture for a fragrant twist that elevates the dish to new culinary heights.
Make Ahead Options
These Campbells Green Bean Casserole is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to save precious time on busy days. You can prepare the entire casserole (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance—simply assemble the green beans, cream of mushroom soup mixture, and fried onions, then cover tightly and refrigerate. To maintain quality and prevent sogginess, add the crispy fried onions just before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake directly from the fridge for about 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden. With these make ahead tips, you’ll have comforting homemade goodness that’s just as delicious but with far less stress!
What to Serve with Campbells Green Bean Casserole?
When you’re ready to savor a comforting meal filled with delightful flavors, let your choices complement this classic dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture balances the crunch of the casserole, creating a satisfying mouthfeel with every bite.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness adds brightness, offering a lovely contrast to the earthy flavors of the casserole.
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Roasted Garlic Chicken: This savory protein pairs beautifully with the creamy green beans, making for a heartier dinner option that everyone will love.
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Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet, these muffins make for a comforting side that enhances the casserole’s rich flavors.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A refreshing crunch with homemade vinaigrette brings balance to the meal, bringing a burst of freshness to each spoonful of casserole.
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Apple Pie for Dessert: Ending your meal on a sweet note with a classic dessert provides a delightful contrast to the flavors of the casserole.
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Zesty Lemonade: A cold glass of this tangy drink complements the coziness of the casserole, offering a refreshing sip in every bite.
As you gather around the table, these pairings will perfectly harmonize with the nostalgia of Campbells Green Bean Casserole, creating a memorable dining experience.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best texture in your Campbells Green Bean Casserole, ensure that if using fresh green beans, you blanch them only until they are tender-crisp to retain their bite.
- A common mistake is overmixing the ingredients; gently fold the green beans into the sauce to avoid breaking them apart.
- For a richer flavor, consider using low-sodium soy sauce instead of regular to enhance the savory notes without adding too much salt.
- Keep an eye on the oven during the final minutes of baking to ensure the crispy topping doesn’t burn by checking the onions for that perfect golden brown color.
Campbells Green Bean Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of green beans should I use for this recipe?
You can absolutely use fresh, frozen, or canned green beans. Fresh green beans provide the best texture and flavor, so I recommend trimming and cutting them into 2-inch pieces, then blanching them briefly. If you’re using frozen beans, just make sure to thaw and drain them completely. Canned beans are the simplest option—just drain and they’re ready to go!
How should I store leftovers of the Campbells Green Bean Casserole?
To keep your delicious casserole fresh, store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes or until warmed through, covering with foil to retain moisture.
Can I freeze Campbells Green Bean Casserole?
Yes, it’s freezer-friendly! For best results, freeze the casserole unbaked in a tightly sealed container. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a comfort dish ready when the cravings hit!
What should I do if my casserole looks dry after baking?
If you find your casserole is a bit dry, don’t worry! First, ensure the top isn’t overbaking by keeping an eye on it during the last few minutes. If that happens, you can stir in a splash of milk or some broth to moisten it right before serving. It’s all about getting that creamy, delightful texture back!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, you can easily substitute the milk with almond milk or a similar non-dairy alternative. If you have gluten sensitivities or need an alternative, look for gluten-free crispy fried onions. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they align with dietary needs!
How can I enhance the flavor of the casserole?
Great question! For an extra layer of depth, consider adding sautéed garlic or onion to the sauce for a flavor boost. You can also sprinkle some grated cheese, like cheddar or Parmesan, over the fried onions before the final bake. This adds a delicious, gooey richness that pairs wonderfully with the green beans!
Campbells Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by if using frozen green beans, fully thaw and drain them. For fresh beans, trim and cut into 2-inch pieces, then blanch in salted boiling water until tender-crisp before draining. Canned beans just need a good drain!
- Set your oven temperature to a cozy 350°F.
- Divide your crispy fried onions into two portions: keep about 2/3 cup for mixing into the casserole and save the extra 1/3 cup for that irresistible crispy topping.
- Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and soy sauce until smooth.
- To the soup mixture, gently fold in your drained green beans, the 2/3 cup of fried onions, and sprinkle in the black pepper.
- Pour the green bean mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25 minutes.
- Once done, carefully remove the casserole and give it a gentle stir. Sprinkle on the reserved 1/3 cup of fried onions.
- Return your casserole to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the onions are golden brown and the dish is bubbling gently.
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