Discover the Joy of Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole Today!

When it comes to quintessential American comfort food, few dishes evoke the nostalgic warmth and family-friendly appeal of Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole. This beloved recipe has been a staple on Thanksgiving tables and holiday gatherings for generations, and for good reason. The creamy, savory blend of green beans, mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions creates a side dish that’s both incredibly simple to prepare and deeply satisfying to savor.

The origins of Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole can be traced back to 1955, when the iconic soup company’s test kitchen created the recipe as a way to showcase their now-famous Cream of Mushroom Soup. Over the decades, this classic casserole has become a beloved tradition, gracing tables across the country and cementing its place as a cherished part of American culinary history.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for the Perfect Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

The beauty of Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole lies in its straightforward ingredient list, making it an easy and accessible dish for home cooks of all levels. To create this comforting casserole, you’ll need:

• 4 cups green beans (fresh, frozen, or canned; thawed if frozen)
• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 1/3 cups crispy fried onions, divided

The green beans provide the base for the casserole, adding a delightful crunch and fresh flavor. The condensed cream of mushroom soup, when combined with milk and soy sauce, creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats the beans beautifully. The ground black pepper adds a subtle kick of seasoning, while the crispy fried onions lend a satisfying crunchy topping that perfectly complements the dish.

Preparing the Perfect Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

Making Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a breeze, and the process is as straightforward as the ingredients. Here’s how to create this classic dish:

1. If using frozen green beans, be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid. If using fresh beans, trim and cut them into 2-inch pieces, then briefly blanch them in salted boiling water before draining. If using canned beans, simply drain them well.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and soy sauce until smooth and well combined.
4. Add the drained green beans, 2/3 cup of the fried onions, and black pepper to the soup mixture. Gently fold everything together until the green beans are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
5. Pour the green bean mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
6. Bake the casserole for 25 minutes, until the mixture is bubbling around the edges and heated through.
7. Remove the casserole from the oven, give it a gentle stir, and then top it with the remaining 1/3 cup of fried onions, spreading them evenly across the surface.
8. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the onions are golden and the dish is gently bubbling.

That’s it! With just a few simple steps, you can create the perfect, classic Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole that’s sure to delight your family and friends.

Variations and Substitutions for Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

While the traditional Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole recipe is a true classic, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this beloved dish. Consider trying out these creative variations:

• Alternative Bean Options: Instead of green beans, you can use haricot verts, asparagus, or even a mix of vegetables for a twist on the classic.
• Creamy Bases: Swap out the condensed cream of mushroom soup for a homemade mushroom sauce or even a creamy Alfredo base for a richer, more decadent version.
• Vegan and Dairy-Free: For plant-based eaters, use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup or a cashew-based cream sauce to create a delicious, dairy-free Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole.
• Additional Toppings: Sprinkle on some shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or even toasted breadcrumbs for extra flavor and texture.

No matter which variation you choose, the key is to maintain the essential balance of creamy, savory, and crunchy elements that make Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole such a beloved classic.

Serving Suggestions for Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a quintessential Thanksgiving and holiday side dish, perfectly complementing roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce. But this versatile casserole can also be enjoyed year-round as a comforting accompaniment to roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or even grilled steak.

For a beautiful presentation, scoop the casserole into a serving dish and garnish it with a sprinkle of extra fried onions or a sprinkling of chopped parsley. Serve it warm, straight from the oven, for maximum creaminess and crunch.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

While Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is undoubtedly a indulgent comfort food, it does offer some nutritional benefits. Green beans are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and the mushroom-based cream sauce provides a dose of antioxidants. To make the dish a bit healthier, you can use reduced-fat or low-sodium versions of the condensed soup, opt for fresh or frozen green beans over canned, and reduce the amount of fried onions used as a topping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of soup instead of cream of mushroom in Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole?

Yes, you can use other types of soups to create variations of Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole. Cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a homemade cream sauce can be substituted for cream of mushroom soup. Each alternative will impart a different flavor to the dish, so choose one that complements your meal. If you are looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based cream soup or a homemade cashew cream to maintain the creamy texture.

How can I make Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole spicier?

To add some heat to your Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole, consider incorporating a few dashes of hot sauce or mixing in red pepper flakes when combining the cream of mushroom soup and milk. You could also add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the green beans mixture before baking. For an extra kick, top the casserole with spicy fried onions or add a sprinkle of pepper jack cheese before baking.

What should I do if my casserole is too dry after baking?

If you find that your Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole has turned out too dry after baking, there are a few steps you can take. First, consider adding a bit more milk or broth to the mixture before baking. If the casserole is already baked, you can drizzle a little chicken or vegetable broth on top and cover it with foil to retain moisture while reheating. Another option is to serve it with a creamy sauce or gravy on the side to enhance moisture and flavor.

Can I add protein to Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole?

Absolutely! Adding protein can make your Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole a more substantial dish. Cooked chicken, turkey, or ham can be mixed into the casserole before baking. For a vegetarian option, you might consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas for added texture and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly if you’re adding raw proteins to ensure everything is cooked through by the time the casserole is ready to serve.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Loaded Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese Bake
• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake
• Million Dollar BBQ Bacon Cheese Dip

Whether you’re serving it as a holiday side dish or enjoying it as a comforting weeknight meal, Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a true classic that will always have a special place in the hearts and stomachs of food lovers everywhere. So grab those green beans and get ready to create a little bit of culinary magic in your own kitchen!

Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!

Print