Introduction
Green bean casserole is one of those timeless dishes that instantly brings comfort to the table. It has become a must-have for many families, especially during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. The combination of tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions on top creates a dish that feels both homey and special at the same time.
This recipe is one that many people grew up eating, and Campbell’s made it famous by creating a simple yet delicious formula. Whether you are a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this casserole is incredibly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. There is something magical about how the flavors blend so well while still offering different textures.
The smooth mushroom soup coats the beans perfectly, while the fried onions add a satisfying crunch. If you have never made this dish before or if you want to perfect your version, you are in the right place. I will walk you through every step of making Campbell’s best green bean casserole. I will also share some helpful tips on how to customize the recipe to suit your taste.
Let’s get started on making this comforting classic that will surely become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients Needed
The beauty of this green bean casserole recipe is that it uses simple ingredients that you probably already have or can easily find at the store. To make this dish, you will need fresh or frozen green beans, Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and crispy French fried onions.
These ingredients come together to create the familiar and much-loved flavor profile. Fresh green beans bring a bright, fresh taste and a bit of snap. If fresh green beans are not available, frozen ones work just as well and save time on preparation.
The cream of mushroom soup is key because it provides that creamy, savory base that holds the casserole together. Milk helps thin out the soup so that it spreads evenly over the beans and keeps the casserole moist. Soy sauce adds a subtle depth of umami flavor without overpowering the dish. Black pepper gives a gentle kick to balance the creaminess. Finally, the French fried onions on top give the casserole its iconic crispy topping, which adds a wonderful texture contrast.
To help you visualize everything, here is a simple table listing the ingredients with their approximate calorie count per serving. This can help you keep track of nutrition while enjoying your meal.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh or frozen green beans | 4 cups | 140 |
| Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | 120 |
| Milk | 3/4 cup | 75 |
| Soy sauce | 1 tsp | 5 |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp | 0 |
| French fried onions | 1 1/3 cups | 200 |
This recipe serves about six people, and each serving contains approximately 270 calories. It is a moderate calorie dish that fits well as a side in any meal.
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making Campbell’s green bean casserole is simple and straightforward. First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the casserole will cook evenly once it goes into the oven.
If you are using fresh green beans, give them a quick boil or blanch for about five minutes. This softens them just enough without making them mushy. If you are using frozen green beans, make sure they are thawed and well-drained to avoid adding extra water to the casserole.
Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir these ingredients well until you get a smooth and creamy mixture. The soy sauce is a secret touch that brings out the umami flavor in the soup, so don’t skip it.
Now add the green beans and half of the French fried onions to the soup mixture. Gently fold them in so that the beans are evenly coated. After that, transfer the whole mixture into a 1 and a half quart casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
Bake the casserole uncovered in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes. This allows the mixture to heat through and the flavors to meld. After the baking time, take the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining French fried onions evenly over the top.
This topping will crisp up and turn golden during the final bake. Put the casserole back into the oven for an additional five minutes to let the onions get perfectly crispy. Once done, take the casserole out and let it cool slightly before serving.
This step is important so the casserole sets and doesn’t spill when you scoop it onto plates. The final dish should be creamy with tender green beans and a crunchy onion topping. It is best enjoyed warm.
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Tips for Customizing the Recipe
While Campbell’s original recipe is perfect as it is, there are many ways you can personalize the casserole to fit your preferences or dietary needs.
If you want a cheesier casserole, adding one cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese to the soup mixture creates a rich and gooey texture that pairs wonderfully with the green beans.
For those who prefer a healthier option, try using low-fat or reduced sodium cream of mushroom soup along with a milk alternative like almond or oat milk. This cuts down on calories and sodium without sacrificing flavor.
If you love extra crunch, consider mixing half of the French fried onions with toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. This will add a unique texture and taste to the topping.
You can also add extra vegetables or flavors such as sautéed mushrooms, diced onions, or even crispy bacon bits to elevate the dish. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley right before serving brightens the flavor and gives the casserole a fresh note.
Lastly, if you want to make the casserole ahead of time, you can prepare it up to the point of baking and refrigerate it for a day. When you are ready to serve, just bake it as usual. This makes it easy for holiday cooking or busy weeknights.
Nutritional Information
Knowing what goes into your food helps you make better choices for your health. A single serving of this green bean casserole contains about 270 calories. It also provides roughly five grams of protein and 15 grams of fat, of which about three grams are saturated fat.
The carbohydrate content is around 22 grams, with five grams coming from fiber. Fiber is important for digestion and helps keep you full. The sodium content can be a bit high at 600 milligrams, mainly due to the canned soup and soy sauce.
If you want to reduce sodium, try using low sodium soup and soy sauce or rinse the canned soup to remove some salt. Overall, this casserole fits well as a side dish in a balanced meal, especially when paired with lean proteins and fresh vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Green bean casserole is an excellent side dish that complements a wide range of main courses. It is traditionally served alongside roasted turkey during Thanksgiving, but it also pairs wonderfully with baked chicken, ham, or even grilled pork.
To round out your meal, serve it with mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole for a comforting plate full of holiday flavors. Fresh cranberry sauce adds a bright contrast that balances the creaminess of the casserole. If you prefer something lighter, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works well.
Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread make great additions to soak up any leftover sauce from the casserole. Because this dish is so rich and flavorful, it pairs best with milder tasting sides to avoid overpowering the palate.
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Conclusion
Campbell’s green bean casserole remains one of the most beloved side dishes in American cuisine. Its creamy texture, savory mushroom flavor, and crispy onion topping have stood the test of time. This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve at holiday celebrations.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a comforting dish that brings people together. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite add-ins, this casserole is sure to please.
Next time you want to bring a little warmth and nostalgia to your table, try making Campbell’s best green bean casserole. It is a recipe that delivers delicious results every time.