Campbell soup green bean casserole recipe

Introduction: A Classic American Side Dish

Green bean casserole is a beloved and timeless side dish in American cuisine, particularly popular during the holiday season. Its creamy texture, combined with the crunch of crispy fried onions, makes it a staple at family gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, and potlucks across the country. As a dish that’s both comforting and easy to prepare, it has found a special place in countless households.

Over the years, its reputation has only grown stronger, thanks to its ability to complement a variety of main courses. Whether served alongside a roast turkey or baked ham, green bean casserole always adds a touch of nostalgia and warmth to the table. Furthermore, its simple preparation allows even novice cooks to create a crowd-pleasing dish with minimal effort.

The Origin Story of Green Bean Casserole

The green bean casserole was first created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly, a home economist working for the Campbell Soup Company. At the time, the goal was to develop recipes that showcased the versatility of Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, encouraging home cooks to incorporate it into their everyday meals. This humble yet innovative recipe quickly gained popularity due to its simplicity, affordability, and delightful taste.

As the years passed, the dish became a household favorite, cementing its place on holiday tables across the nation. Its universal appeal lies not only in its creamy, savory flavor but also in its convenience—perfect for busy families looking to create something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Today, it stands as a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create an enduring classic.

Why Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole Is a Family Favorite

Campbell Soup’s green bean casserole has become a cherished family tradition for many households. Its straightforward preparation and comforting flavors make it an ideal side dish for both busy weeknights and special occasions. The creamy, savory filling, paired with the crispy fried onion topping, achieves a perfect balance of texture and flavor that appeals to all ages.

Moreover, its versatility allows for easy customization to suit individual preferences or dietary needs, ensuring it remains a go-to recipe for every family. Passed down from generation to generation, this classic dish holds a special place in the hearts of many, bringing nostalgia and warmth to holiday tables year after year.

Ingredients Needed for Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole Recipe

The Campbell Soup green bean casserole recipe is delightfully simple, requiring just a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients. These components come together to create the dish’s signature creamy base and crunchy topping. Here’s what you’ll need:

Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup: The key ingredient for the creamy, savory filling.
Green Beans: You can use fresh, canned, or frozen, depending on your preference.
Fried Onions: The crispy topping that adds an irresistible crunch.
Milk: To help achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
Soy Sauce: For a subtle umami flavor that enhances the dish.
Black Pepper: To season and balance the flavors.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the casserole’s delicious texture and flavor profile. The combination of the creamy mushroom soup and crispy fried onions ensures this dish is as comforting as it is flavorful.

The Role of Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup

Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup is the cornerstone of this classic green bean casserole. Its creamy consistency serves as the perfect base, binding the green beans and other ingredients together. The soup’s rich, savory mushroom flavor enhances the dish, adding depth and complexity without the need for additional seasonings or sauces.

Additionally, this ingredient saves time in the kitchen by eliminating the need to make a homemade sauce from scratch. With its velvety texture and balanced flavor, Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup ensures the casserole achieves the signature creamy taste and consistency that families have loved for generations.

Choosing Fresh or Canned Green Beans: Pros and Cons

The choice between fresh and canned green beans depends on personal preference and the amount of preparation time available. Each option has its unique advantages and considerations:

Fresh Green Beans

Pros: Fresh green beans offer a crisp texture and a vibrant, natural flavor. They allow for more control over the level of tenderness during cooking and bring a slightly fresher taste to the dish.
Cons: They require additional preparation, such as trimming and blanching, which can add to the overall cooking time.

Canned Green Beans

Pros: Canned green beans are incredibly convenient and save time since they’re already cooked and ready to use. They are perfect for quick preparation without compromising on flavor.
Cons: They may have a softer texture compared to fresh beans and sometimes contain added sodium, which may require rinsing to reduce saltiness.

Both options work well in this recipe, allowing you to customize the dish to suit your schedule and preferences. If you’re looking for a middle ground, frozen green beans are another great alternative—they combine the convenience of canned beans with the freshness of raw ones.

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor

While the classic Campbell Soup green bean casserole is delicious on its own, adding a few optional ingredients can elevate the dish and make it even more flavorful. Here are some popular add-ins to consider:

Cheese: Incorporating shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or even Gruyère cheese adds a rich, creamy layer of flavor.
Bacon: Crumbled cooked bacon introduces a smoky, savory note that pairs perfectly with the creamy base and green beans.
Garlic: Adding fresh minced garlic or a dash of garlic powder enhances the aroma and provides a subtle yet impactful flavor boost.
Mushrooms: Sautéed fresh mushrooms bring an earthy depth to the dish, complementing the mushroom soup.
Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, parsley, or rosemary can brighten the flavors and add an aromatic touch.

These add-ins allow for endless customization, making the casserole feel unique to your table while still preserving its comforting essence.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Casserole

Making Campbell Soup green bean casserole is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps. Follow this guide to achieve the perfect dish every time.

Preparing the Green Beans

Fresh Green Beans: Rinse thoroughly, trim the ends, and cut into smaller pieces if desired. Blanch them by boiling in salted water for 5-7 minutes, or until just tender. Drain well and set aside.
Canned Green Beans: Simply drain and rinse to remove excess sodium. No additional preparation is needed.

Mixing the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 can of Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup
- ¾ cup of milk
- 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Add the prepared green beans and gently fold them in to coat evenly.

Assembling the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Transfer the green bean and soup mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Adding the Crunchy Onion Topping

Sprinkle 1 cup of crispy fried onions over the top of the casserole, ensuring even coverage.
If you prefer extra crunch, reserve some onions to add during the last few minutes of baking.

Baking

Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
If using reserved onions, sprinkle them on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Serving

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

With these steps, you’ll create a flavorful, creamy casserole with just the right amount of crunch—perfect for any occasion.

Tips for Enhancing Your Green Bean Casserole

To ensure your green bean casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips and tricks to elevate both its flavor and presentation.

How to Customize for Dietary Preferences

Green bean casserole is highly versatile and can be adapted to meet various dietary needs. Here are some easy ways to customize it:

Vegetarian or Vegan: Use a plant-based cream of mushroom soup and dairy-free fried onions. Non-dairy milk, such as almond or soy milk, works well as a substitute for regular milk.
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure your fried onions are certified gluten-free. You can also make your own crispy onion topping using gluten-free breadcrumbs or flour.
Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium versions of Campbell’s soup and soy sauce. Rinse canned green beans thoroughly to reduce added salt.
Dairy-Free: Replace milk with a non-dairy alternative and ensure fried onions and any cheese add-ins are dairy-free.

Making It Ahead: Storage and Reheating Tips

Green bean casserole is an excellent dish to prepare in advance, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.

Assemble the Casserole: Follow the recipe instructions up until the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate.
Reheating: When ready to serve, bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the casserole with foil and remove it in the last 10 minutes to allow the onions to crisp up.
Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as usual.

Avoiding Common Mistakes in Green Bean Casserole

Overcooking the Green Beans: Whether fresh or canned, avoid overcooking to prevent a mushy texture.
Ensuring Enough Sauce: The casserole should be creamy but not overly dry. If it looks too thick, stir in a bit more milk or broth before baking.
Even Topping Distribution: Spread the fried onions evenly to ensure every bite has a perfect crunch.
Resting After Baking: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes to set the creamy filling, making it easier to serve.

With these tips, you can confidently create a green bean casserole that suits your needs while maintaining its classic charm.

Serving Suggestions for Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses, especially during festive occasions. Here are some ideas to make the most of this classic recipe:

Pairing with Other Holiday Dishes

Roast Turkey: The creamy casserole complements the savory flavors of roast turkey, especially when paired with cranberry sauce.
Baked Ham: The rich, slightly sweet flavors of baked ham contrast beautifully with the savory casserole.
Mashed Potatoes: Serve alongside buttery mashed potatoes for a comforting combination.
Stuffing: The hearty, herbed flavors of stuffing perfectly balance the creamy, crunchy casserole.
Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm dinner rolls are ideal for scooping up the creamy sauce from the casserole.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Dish

To make your green bean casserole visually appealing, consider these presentation ideas:

Serve in an Elegant Dish: Use a colorful or decorative baking dish to make the casserole stand out on the table.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary over the top for added color and a hint of freshness.
Extra Crunch: Add a handful of freshly fried onions on top just before serving for an irresistible crunch.
Use a Platter: Transfer the casserole to a serving platter for a more formal presentation. This also makes it easier to portion and serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cans are 4 cups of green beans?

Typically, a 15-ounce can of green beans contains about 1.5 cups of beans once drained. To get 4 cups of green beans, you’ll need approximately 2.5 cans. For accuracy, measure the beans after draining.

How do you keep green bean casserole from being runny?

To prevent your casserole from becoming runny, follow these tips:

Use the Right Amount of Liquid: Be cautious with the amount of milk or broth you add. Start with the recommended amount and only add more if necessary.
Drain the Green Beans: Whether fresh, canned, or frozen, ensure they are drained thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
Thicken the Sauce: If your mixture seems too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a teaspoon of cornstarch or flour with a bit of milk and stirring it into the sauce before baking.
Bake Uncovered: Baking the casserole uncovered allows excess moisture to evaporate, resulting in a creamy consistency.

Can I use heavy cream instead of milk in my green bean casserole?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream for milk. This will give the casserole a richer, creamier texture. However, heavy cream is thicker, so you may need to use slightly less or adjust the other ingredients to maintain the desired consistency.

Conclusion: Celebrating the Timelessness of Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole has stood the test of time as a beloved dish in American cuisine. Its enduring popularity stems from its simplicity, comforting flavors, and versatility, making it a go-to side dish for holiday feasts, family gatherings, and potlucks. The combination of creamy green beans and the crispy onion topping creates a nostalgic flavor profile that continues to bring people together around the dinner table.

Whether you’re following the classic Campbell Soup recipe or experimenting with creative add-ins, green bean casserole is a dish that evolves to suit your family’s tastes. Its adaptability for dietary preferences and ease of preparation further solidify its place in kitchens across the country. By incorporating thoughtful tips and tricks, you can ensure this timeless recipe remains a centerpiece of your celebrations for years to come.

As long as families gather to share meals, green bean casserole will hold its place as a cherished part of those moments, symbolizing warmth, tradition, and the joy of sharing delicious food.