When the holiday season rolls around, my kitchen transforms into a hub of nostalgic scents and cherished traditions. One dish that always comes to mind, bringing back memories of large family gatherings and laughter around the table, is Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole. Its creaminess, combined with the satisfying crunch of French fried onions, creates a harmony of flavors that can easily steal the spotlight. The best part? Preparing this dish is incredibly simple, meaning you can focus on what truly matters—creating unforgettable moments with loved ones.
I first fell in love with this comforting casserole during one of those bustling potluck dinners, where the flavors soaked in every corner of the room. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinners or need a reliable crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this recipe checks all the boxes. Follow me as I guide you through the steps to make this beloved classic and elevate your homemade meal game without breaking a sweat!
Why You'll Love This Campbell's Green Bean Casserole
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious dish with minimal effort.
- The creamy mushroom sauce combined with crunchy French fried onions creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will rave about.
- Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to casual weeknight dinners.
- Plus, the stunning visuals of this casserole coming out of the oven will impress your guests and add a festive touch to your table.
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
- Green beans – 2 (15-ounce) cans, drained to achieve the perfect texture without excess moisture.
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup – 1 (10.5-ounce) can, this creamy base brings rich flavor to the Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole.
- Milk – ½ cup, to enhance the creaminess and adjust the sauce consistency.
- Soy sauce – 1 teaspoon, adds a depth of umami that complements the dish beautifully.
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon, a simple seasoning that lifts the flavor profile.
- French fried onions – 1 ⅓ cups, divided; they provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling.
For Topping
- French fried onions – Reserved ⅓ cup, sprinkle for that irresistible crispy topping that everyone loves.
How to Make Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish. This step ensures the casserole doesn’t stick and helps it bake evenly in the oven.
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Drain the green beans thoroughly, pressing out excess water. Dry beans contribute to a better texture, ensuring your casserole is rich and creamy without being watery.
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Whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. This creamy blend is the heart of your Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole, bringing together flavors seamlessly.
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Fold in the drained green beans and ⅔ of the French fried onions into the soup mixture gently. Make sure the beans are evenly coated in the luscious sauce, allowing each bite to be flavorful.
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Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. This creates an even bake, ensuring that all parts of the casserole harmonize beautifully as they cook.
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Bake for 25 to 30 minutes in the preheated oven. Look for the casserole to be hot and bubbly around the edges, with the sauce starting to thicken—this is where the magic begins!
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Sprinkle the remaining ⅓ cup of French fried onions evenly over the surface. This will give you that glorious crunch the dish is known for, contrasting perfectly with the creamy filling.
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Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning—nobody wants a charred topping!
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Let stand for 5 minutes after removing from the oven before serving. This pause allows the sauce to set, making it easier to serve while ensuring no one burns their mouth on the hot filling.
Optional: Drizzle with a splash of extra soy sauce for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is perfect for meal prep lovers! You can wash and drain the green beans, and mix the creamy soup base (condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper) up to 24 hours in advance. To ensure freshness, store the green beans separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator, while you refrigerate the soup mixture as well. When you’re ready to bake, gently fold the drained green beans and French fried onions into the mixture, pour it into the prepared baking dish, and bake as directed. This method helps save time on busy weeknights while ensuring your casserole is just as delicious!
What to Serve with Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole?
Embrace the warmth of nostalgia and create a delightful meal that pairs beautifully with comforting favorites.
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Roasted Chicken: Juicy and crispy, roasted chicken pairs wonderfully, offering a savory counterpoint to the creamy casserole. The subtle herbs create a flavor harmony that will leave everyone satisfied.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic provide a rich and comforting base. The smooth texture complements the casserole, making every bite an indulgent treat.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, honey-glazed carrots add a pop of color and contrasting sweetness. Their vibrant taste brightens the entire meal, ensuring a delightful balance.
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Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce offers a sharp contrast to the creamy casserole while refreshing the palate. This classic condiment adds festive flair and a nostalgic touch.
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Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. They invite everyone to enjoy every last bit of the casserole in a warm embrace.
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Apple Pie: For dessert, a warm, spiced apple pie rounds out the meal perfectly. The sweetness and hint of cinnamon provide a comforting end to your cozy dinner experience.
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Spiced Mulled Wine: Serve a glass of spiced mulled wine alongside your meal to add warmth and seasonal charm. The aromatic spices will elevate the entire dining experience and warm hearts.
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will make your casserole uniquely yours!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a creamy but dairy-free option. Enjoy a rich flavor without compromising your dietary needs.
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Vegetarian: Replace condensed mushroom soup with a homemade blend of sautéed mushrooms and vegetable broth for a fresher taste. This keeps the heartiness while making it even more wholesome.
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Cheesy Delight: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture before baking for a creamy, cheesy layer of goodness. The melted cheese on top brings a whole new level of comfort to your casserole.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in 1 tablespoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a little zing. This adds a layer of excitement and a pleasant warmth that your taste buds will adore.
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Crunchy Nuts: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped pecans or almonds in place of or alongside the French fried onions for extra texture and a nutty flavor. They bring delightful crunch and a sophisticated twist to this classic dish.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch. These herbs will infuse your casserole with earthy flavors, transporting your family to a cozy countryside dinner.
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Mushroom Medley: Use a mix of fresh mushrooms in addition to the canned soup for a robust flavor profile. Sauté mushrooms like shiitake, cremini, or portobello until tender for a delightful earthiness.
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Layered Variation: Instead of mixing everything together, layer the ingredients in the baking dish. Alternate layers of green beans, sauce, and onions for a visual treat that creates a stunning presentation on your table.
Each variation allows you to express your culinary creativity while keeping the heart of this beloved dish intact—enjoy the journey of flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Room Temperature: Keep any leftover casserole at room temperature for no more than 2 hours after serving to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store leftover Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures the flavors stay intact while keeping it safe to enjoy later.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the casserole in a tightly sealed freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Wrap it in plastic wrap before sealing for optimal freshness.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until heated through. Enjoy the crispy top by adding some extra French fried onions just before reheating!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the perfect Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole, ensure to thoroughly drain the green beans to avoid a watery dish.
- When mixing the ingredients, whisk until the soup mixture is completely smooth for a creamy texture.
- Be gentle when folding in the green beans and onions to avoid breaking them apart, which helps maintain the casserole’s structure.
- Bake the casserole until it’s bubbling and the sauce has thickened, then keep a close eye during the last few minutes to get that golden, crispy topping without burning it.
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of green beans should I use for the casserole?
Absolutely, I recommend using two cans of cut green beans for the best texture. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, fresh or frozen green beans work too! Just be sure to blanch them until tender before adding them to your casserole.
How long can I store leftover Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole?
You can keep the casserole in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep those delicious flavors intact. If you’re unsure about eating it after a few days, look for signs like an off smell or unusual texture—those are good indicators to skip it!
Can I freeze Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole, and how?
Yes! Freezing is a great option if you’d like to save some for later. First, let the casserole cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw in the fridge overnight and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
What can I do if my casserole turns out watery?
Very! If you find your Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is watery, this usually means that the green beans weren’t drained thoroughly. Next time, consider pressing the beans to remove excess moisture before mixing. If it’s already baked and too watery, you can absorb some of the liquid by sprinkling some breadcrumbs or more French fried onions on top while baking!
Does this casserole cater to dietary restrictions?
While the classic recipe contains dairy and gluten, it can be adjusted! To make it dairy-free, substitute the condensed soup with a plant-based version and use almond or oat milk instead. For gluten-free, make sure your fried onions are certified gluten-free, or opt for a homemade crispy onion topping—just sautéed onions baked until crispy!
Can I add extra ingredients to the Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole?
The more, the merrier! You can easily customize this dish by adding sautéed mushrooms, cheddar cheese, or even crispy bacon for extra flavor and texture. Just be mindful of balancing out the moisture from any additional ingredients so it maintains that delightful creamy richness!
Equipment
- Baking dish
- mixing bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 2 cans (15-ounce) Green beans drained
- 1 can (10.5-ounce) Condensed cream of mushroom soup creamy base for flavor
- ½ cup Milk to enhance creaminess
- 1 teaspoon Soy sauce adds umami depth
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper simple seasoning
- 1 ⅓ cups French fried onions divided for topping
For Topping
- ⅓ cup French fried onions reserved for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
- Drain the green beans thoroughly, pressing out excess water.
- Whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl.
- Fold in the drained green beans and ⅔ of the French fried onions into the soup mixture gently.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Sprinkle the remaining ⅓ cup of French fried onions evenly over the surface.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes.
- Let stand for 5 minutes after removing from the oven before serving.
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