Irresistible Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Green Bean Casserole is a classic holiday and family dinner staple that combines tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and a crunchy fried onion topping. Using Campbell’s condensed cream of mushroom soup gives this dish its signature rich and comforting flavor while keeping preparation simple. This casserole is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any meal when you want a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish. Its creamy texture and savory flavor make it a favorite across generations, and the golden fried onion topping adds the perfect finishing touch.

The appeal of green bean casserole lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The tender green beans provide a fresh bite, while the creamy mushroom soup binds everything together. Soy sauce and black pepper enhance the savory depth, making each spoonful rich and flavorful. Finally, the crispy fried onions on top give a satisfying crunch, creating a dish that is both comforting and elegant. This casserole is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy holiday kitchens.

This article will guide you through step-by-step instructions for making Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole, including tips for achieving the perfect creamy consistency, variations to suit your taste, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

▢ 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
▢ 1/2 cup milk
▢ 1 teaspoon soy sauce
▢ 4 cups cut green beans (from 2 cans, 1 lb fresh, or one 16 oz frozen package)
▢ 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the topping:
▢ 1 1/3 cups crispy French fried onions, divided

Method

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper, stirring until smooth. If using fresh or frozen green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 3–5 minutes, then drain and pat dry. For canned green beans, drain thoroughly before adding. Fold the green beans into the mushroom mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Transfer the green bean mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the casserole is heated through and bubbling. Remove from the oven and sprinkle 2/3 of the crispy French fried onions evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Sprinkle the remaining onions on top for extra crunch and garnish just before serving if desired.

Tips for Perfect Green Bean Casserole

Drain green beans thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole. For fresh or frozen beans, blanching ensures they remain tender yet firm. Stir the soup mixture gently to coat all green beans evenly without mashing them. Add soy sauce carefully to enhance flavor without overpowering the dish. For the crispiest topping, add some onions at the end of baking and some just before serving for texture contrast.

Variations

Add sautéed mushrooms or diced onions for additional depth of flavor. Mix in shredded cheese for a creamy, cheesy variation. Substitute half of the milk with heavy cream for a richer sauce. Incorporate cooked bacon bits for a smoky, savory twist. Use panko breadcrumbs instead of or in addition to fried onions for a different crunchy topping.

Serving Ideas

Green Bean Casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, baked ham, or grilled chicken. Serve as a comforting side dish for holiday meals, family dinners, or potlucks. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added color and aroma. This casserole can be prepared ahead of time, then baked just before serving to save time during busy meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, blanch fresh green beans for 3–5 minutes to achieve the perfect texture before mixing with the sauce.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

How can I make the topping extra crispy?
Add part of the fried onions during the last 5–10 minutes of baking and reserve some to sprinkle on top before serving.

Can I use a different type of cream soup?
Yes, cream of chicken or cream of celery soup can be substituted, though the flavor will slightly differ.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, assemble without the fried onions and freeze for up to 2 months. Add onions just before baking after thawing overnight in the refrigerator.

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Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a timeless side dish that combines creamy, savory flavors with a crunchy topping, creating a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any meal where you want a classic, delicious vegetable side.