When it comes to classic holiday dishes, few recipes are as iconic as Campbell’s Green Bean. It’s a beloved staple that has graced Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter tables for decades. With its creamy, savory filling made from Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, tender green beans, and crispy fried onions on top, it’s the epitome of comfort food. What makes this dish so special is its simplicity—minimal ingredients, easy preparation, and maximum flavor.
This article is your ultimate guide to making the perfect Campbell Green Bean, including tips, variations, and ways to elevate it for special occasions. Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit at your table.
How to Elevate Campbell Green Bean Casserole for Special Occasions
While the classic Campbell Green Bean is a crowd-pleaser on its own, elevating it with gourmet touches can make it the star of your holiday table. One simple way to add sophistication is by using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Swap canned green beans for fresh or frozen ones to achieve a crispier texture and brighter flavor. Blanching the green beans for a few minutes before adding them to the casserole keeps them vibrant and firm, ensuring your dish has the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures.
For an added layer of richness, mix freshly grated Parmesan cheese or Gruyère into the sauce before combining it with the green beans. These cheeses melt beautifully and lend a nutty, savory flavor that complements the creamy mushroom soup base. You can also make your own fried onion topping by thinly slicing shallots, coating them in flour, and frying them until golden brown. Not only does this add a gourmet touch, but it also enhances the flavor with a fresh, homemade twist.
Transforming Leftover Green Bean Casserole
Got leftovers? Campbell Green Bean Casserole transforms beautifully into other dishes, making sure nothing goes to waste. One delicious idea is to use it as a filling for savory hand pies. Simply spoon the casserole into pre-made puff pastry or pie dough, fold and seal, and bake until golden brown. These hand pies are perfect as snacks, appetizers, or even breakfast the next day.
Another creative use for leftovers is to turn them into a creamy pasta dish. Toss the green bean casserole with cooked pasta, a splash of milk, and a handful of shredded cheese for a quick and hearty meal. You can also use it as a topping for baked potatoes or stir it into cooked rice for a casserole-style side dish. With these ideas, your green bean casserole doesn’t just stay on the holiday table—it becomes a versatile addition to your weekly menu!
Why Is Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole So Popular?
A History of Tradition
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole was created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly, a Campbell’s Soup test kitchen employee, as an easy-to-make dish using pantry staples. It quickly became a sensation, winning the hearts of home cooks across America. Over the decades, it’s earned its place as a must-have on holiday menus, thanks to its rich flavor, creamy texture, and irresistible crispy topping.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why Campbell Green Bean Casserole is a timeless favorite:
- Quick and Easy: It requires only six ingredients and takes just minutes to prepare.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, this casserole is perfect for gatherings.
- Customizable: It’s easy to adapt with additional ingredients or creative twists.
- Affordable: Made with simple pantry items, it’s a budget-friendly dish.
What Does Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole Taste Like?
This casserole is a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures. The Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats the tender green beans. The fried onion topping adds a satisfying crunch and a burst of salty flavor that makes every bite irresistible. Together, these elements create a comforting dish that’s hearty yet light enough to pair with heavier holiday entrées like turkey or ham.
Ingredients for Campbell Green Bean Casserole
The traditional Campbell Green Bean Casserole recipe requires only six simple ingredients:
Classic Ingredients:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups cooked green beans (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 1/3 cups crispy fried onions (like French’s Fried Onions)
How to Make Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
Step 3: Add the Green Beans
Fold in the cooked green beans, ensuring they are fully coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to a 1 1/2-quart baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then top with 2/3 cup of crispy fried onions.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbling around the edges.
Step 6: Add the Final Topping
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup of fried onions on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. It pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce.
Tips for the Best Campbell Green Bean Casserole
- Use Fresh Green Beans: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh green beans. Blanch them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes before using.
- Don’t Skip the Soy Sauce: This adds a subtle umami flavor that enhances the dish’s overall depth.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the casserole (minus the fried onion topping) up to a day in advance, then bake it fresh before serving.
- Choose High-Quality Fried Onions: The crispy topping is the star of the show, so use a brand you love.
Creative Variations of Campbell Green Bean Casserole
While the classic recipe is perfect as is, you can add your own twist to make it even more special:
1. Cheesy Green Bean Casserole
- Stir 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle an additional layer of cheese on top before adding the fried onions for an extra cheesy finish.
2. Bacon Green Bean Casserole
- Add 1/2 cup of crumbled, cooked bacon to the green bean mixture for a smoky, savory flavor.
- Garnish with extra bacon bits on top of the fried onions before serving.
3. Garlic and Herb Variation
- Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the sauce for an aromatic twist.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
4. Spicy Green Bean Casserole
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a kick of heat.
- Use jalapeño-flavored fried onions as a topping for extra spice.
5. Vegan Green Bean Casserole
- Replace Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup with a vegan-friendly cream of mushroom alternative.
- Use plant-based milk and vegan fried onions for a dairy-free version.
What to Serve with Campbell Green Bean Casserole
This casserole is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes:
- Roasted Turkey: A classic Thanksgiving pairing.
- Glazed Ham: Perfect for Christmas or Easter feasts.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the casserole’s rich flavors.
- Dinner Rolls: Use them to scoop up every bit of the creamy sauce.
- Stuffing: Another holiday favorite that rounds out the meal.
Storing and Reheating Campbell Green Bean Casserole
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the casserole (without the fried onion topping) for up to 3 months. Add fresh fried onions when reheating.
Reheating Instructions
- Reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first.
- You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes on high, but the fried onions may lose their crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans?
Yes! Frozen green beans work wonderfully in this recipe. Thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely. Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free fried onions to create a gluten-free version of this dish.
Can I Double the Recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Use a 9×13-inch baking dish and adjust the cooking time as needed.
What If I Don’t Have Fried Onions?
If you’re out of fried onions, you can substitute with crushed Ritz crackers, breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter, or even crispy bacon bits for the topping.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 13g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fiber: 2g
Conclusion
Campbell Green Bean Casserole has stood the test of time as a holiday classic and comfort food favorite. Its creamy texture, rich flavors, and crispy onion topping make it a dish that’s loved by all. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or get creative with your own twists, this casserole is sure to bring smiles to the table.
So, why not try making this timeless dish for your next holiday or family dinner? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a casserole that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Don’t forget to share your creations and let us know how you customized it! For more holiday favorites, check out our recipes for Sweet Potato Casserole and Cornbread Stuffing. Happy cooking!