Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole Recipe – Classic Holiday Favorite

Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole Recipe – A Holiday Favorite

Campbell’s green bean casserole has been a household favorite for decades, known for its creamy texture, crispy topping, and comforting flavors. This classic dish, originally crafted in the Campbell’s Soup test kitchen, has become a staple at holiday tables across America. It’s quick, simple, and undeniably delicious, making it perfect for family dinners and festive feasts alike.

This article will guide you through the Campbell soup green bean casserole recipe, from the history of its creation to step-by-step instructions, variations, and serving suggestions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, you’ll find everything you need to prepare this iconic holiday side dish to perfection.

Introduction to Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

The Origins of the Classic Dish

The Campbell’s green bean casserole was invented in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly, a home economist working for the Campbell Soup Company. Her goal? Create a simple, budget-friendly, and satisfying side dish using ingredients already available in most kitchens. By combining just six ingredients, including Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup, she unknowingly created a cultural icon.

This dish quickly gained traction because of its affordability, convenience, and irresistible taste. Its rise to fame was further boosted when it was featured in Campbell’s recipe booklets, making its way into millions of homes.

Why It’s a Holiday Favorite

So, why has the green bean casserole endured for generations? For starters, its simplicity makes it ideal for busy holiday cooking. You can whip it up with minimal effort, yet it feels festive and special enough for celebratory meals.

Beyond convenience, its creamy texture, savory mushroom flavor, and crispy French fried onions create a perfect balance of taste and texture. Plus, the versatility of the recipe allows for countless creative twists, so it never gets boring.

Nostalgia and Family Tradition

For many families, serving a Campbell’s green bean casserole at Thanksgiving or Christmas evokes warm memories. It’s a comforting dish that often holds sentimental value, passed down through generations. From potlucks to dinner parties, it remains a staple for celebrations.

Nutritional Benefits of Green Beans

While the casserole is indulgent, green beans themselves are loaded with essential nutrients. They are rich in:

• Vitamins A, C, and K
• Fiber
• Folate
• Antioxidants

By choosing fresh green beans and a lower-sodium soup, you can create a slightly healthier version without sacrificing flavor.

Essential Ingredients at a Glance

• Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup
• Fresh, frozen, or canned green beans
• Milk
• Soy sauce
• Black pepper
• French fried onions

Each ingredient plays a key role in achieving the signature creamy consistency and crispy finish. Now, let’s move on to the ingredients and step-by-step preparation.

Ingredients and Preparation

The heart of a perfect Campbell soup green bean casserole recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can create a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that pairs beautifully with holiday spreads. Let’s break down the essentials and walk you through the preparation process step by step.

Essential Ingredients

To achieve the authentic taste of a classic Campbell’s green bean casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup
  This rich, creamy base adds depth and a velvety texture, perfectly complementing the green beans.
• Green Beans (Fresh, Frozen, or Canned)
  Green beans provide a crisp, slightly sweet contrast to the savory sauce. Choose fresh for a firmer texture or canned for convenience.
• Milk
  Milk helps thin the soup, making it the perfect consistency for coating the beans evenly.
• Soy Sauce
  A splash of soy sauce enhances the umami flavor, giving the dish a savory punch.
• Ground Black Pepper
  Black pepper adds a subtle warmth, balancing the creaminess of the sauce.
• French Fried Onions
  These crispy onions are the star topping, delivering a satisfying crunch and a slightly salty finish.

Optional Ingredients for Customization

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – for a cheesy twist
• Garlic Powder – to add a subtle kick
• Red Pepper Flakes – for a hint of spice

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Creating the perfect Campbell soup green bean casserole recipe involves just a few straightforward steps. Follow this guide to ensure your casserole turns out rich, creamy, and golden brown every time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper preheating ensures even cooking and helps the casserole achieve a bubbly, golden finish.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• 1 can of Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup
• ¾ cup of milk
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Whisk the mixture thoroughly to ensure the ingredients blend smoothly. The goal is a creamy, pourable consistency.

Step 3: Add the Green Beans

Stir in:

• 4 cups of green beans (fresh, frozen, or canned)

Ensure the beans are evenly coated with the creamy mixture. If using fresh beans, blanch them for 2-3 minutes in boiling water before adding them. Frozen beans should be thawed, while canned beans should be drained and rinsed.

Step 4: Incorporate Some Fried Onions

Add ⅔ cup of French fried onions to the mixture. This step creates layers of crunch throughout the casserole, not just on top.

Step 5: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Pour the entire mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar casserole dish. Spread it out evenly for consistent cooking.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbling around the edges.

Step 7: Add the Final Layer of Crispy Onions

Carefully remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle an additional 1 cup of French fried onions evenly over the top.

Step 8: Finish Baking

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.

Tips for Optimal Results

Perfecting your Campbell’s green bean casserole involves more than just following the recipe. Here are some expert tips for better flavor and texture:

Choosing Between Fresh, Frozen, or Canned Green Beans

• Fresh Beans: Blanch for a few minutes to soften while maintaining a crisp texture.
• Frozen Beans: Thaw fully before use.
• Canned Beans: Drain and rinse thoroughly to reduce saltiness.

Best Choice: Fresh beans provide the best texture, but canned beans offer the quickest preparation.

Adjusting Baking Times Based on Green Bean Selection

• Fresh beans may require an extra 5-7 minutes of baking.
• Frozen beans may slightly increase baking time as well.
• Canned beans typically require the shortest bake time due to pre-cooking.

Ensuring Even Mixing for Consistent Flavor

• Stir the mixture thoroughly before transferring it to the baking dish.
• Avoid packing the beans too tightly in the dish to promote even cooking.
• If the casserole seems too thick, add a splash of milk to thin the sauce slightly.

By mastering these steps and tips, you’re well on your way to creating a perfect Campbell soup green bean casserole recipe. Up next, explore creative variations to customize your casserole for any

Variations and Enhancements

The beauty of the Campbell soup green bean casserole recipe lies in its versatility. While the classic version remains a holiday staple, there are countless ways to customize it to match your family’s tastes. Whether you’re a fan of extra cheese, bold flavors, or healthier twists, these variations will help you create a personalized casserole masterpiece.

Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

For those who crave a richer, creamier casserole, adding cheese can take this dish to a whole new level of indulgence. The melted cheese blends seamlessly with the creamy sauce, adding a comforting, gooey texture.

How to Make It Cheesy:

1. Add Shredded Cheddar Cheese to the Mixture: Stir in 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese along with the soup, milk, and green beans. The cheese melts into the sauce, making it extra creamy.
2. Omit the Soy Sauce: Removing the soy sauce prevents the casserole from becoming overly salty, as the cheese already provides a rich savory taste.
3. Top with Extra Cheese Before the Final Bake: After the initial baking, sprinkle an additional ½ cup of shredded Cheddar over the casserole before adding the final layer of fried onions. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Cheesy Green Bean Casserole pairs perfectly with turkey or roasted chicken, making it a great holiday upgrade.

Savory-Enhanced Green Bean Casserole

Want to dial up the savory factor? Try incorporating a rich, umami-packed ingredient for deeper flavor.

How to Boost Savory Flavors:

1. Mushroom Medley Addition: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms sautéed in butter to the soup mixture for a richer taste.
2. Use Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese inside the mixture for a nutty, umami boost.

These minor tweaks add depth without overwhelming the classic Campbell soup green bean casserole taste.

Golden Mushroom Green Bean Casserole

For a slightly tangier, more vibrant version, consider using Campbell’s Golden Mushroom Soup instead of the traditional cream of mushroom. The golden variety offers a richer tomato-mushroom base, making the dish bolder in taste.

How to Make It:

1. Substitute the Soup: Swap Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup with Campbell’s Condensed Golden Mushroom Soup.
2. Omit the Soy Sauce: Since the golden mushroom soup already contains a tangy base, soy sauce can be left out.
3. Add a Pop of Color with Bell Peppers: Mix in ½ cup of chopped red bell pepper with the green beans for extra sweetness and vibrant color.

This twist makes the casserole both visually appealing and deliciously bold. The red bell peppers not only add sweetness but also balance the richness of the soup.

Fresh Herb and Almond Green Bean Casserole

If you’re aiming for a more elegant, herbaceous twist, this variation adds freshness and a delightful crunch.

How to Add Herbs and Almonds:

1. Include Fresh Herbs: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme or rosemary to the soup mixture for an aromatic touch.
2. Toast Sliced Almonds: Lightly toast ⅓ cup of sliced almonds and sprinkle them on top along with the fried onions before the final bake.

The herbs elevate the dish with a garden-fresh taste, while the almonds provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts the creamy base.

Extra-Crispy Green Bean Casserole Twist

If the crispy topping is your favorite part, this version adds an extra layer of crunch.

How to Make It Extra-Crispy:

1. Mix Panko Breadcrumbs with Fried Onions: Combine ¾ cup of Panko breadcrumbs with the fried onions for the final topping.
2. Drizzle with Melted Butter: Lightly drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the topping before the final bake for added richness.

This variation provides an irresistibly crispy finish that pairs beautifully with the creamy casserole underneath.

Healthier Green Bean Casserole Adjustments

For a lighter version of the Campbell soup green bean casserole, consider making these adjustments without compromising on taste:

1. Swap the Soup: Use Campbell’s Healthy Request Cream of Mushroom Soup, which contains less sodium and fat.
2. Reduce Fried Onions: Cut the amount of fried onions in half or substitute with toasted breadcrumbs.
3. Use Low-Fat Milk: Opt for low-fat or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter sauce.

These simple tweaks can make the casserole more suitable for those seeking a healthier option without sacrificing its classic appeal.

Pro Tips for Customizing Your Casserole:

• Flavor Boost: A dash of garlic powder or onion powder can elevate the overall taste.
• Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a gentle heat without overpowering the dish.
• Balanced Seasoning: If using salty toppings like cheese or soy sauce, reduce the added salt for balance.

By experimenting with these creative variations, you can transform the classic Campbell soup green bean casserole recipe into a dish that’s perfectly tailored to your taste preferences. From cheesy delights to crunchy almond twists, there’s no limit to how you can make this holiday favorite your own.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Ideal Occasions for Serving

The Campbell soup green bean casserole recipe fits a range of occasions:

• Thanksgiving & Christmas: A holiday staple alongside turkey and stuffing.
• Potlucks & Gatherings: Easy to prepare and share.
• Weeknight Dinners: Comfort food for busy evenings.

Complementary Dishes

Pair your casserole with:

• Roast Turkey or Chicken – Classic protein choices.
• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and rich complement.
• Cranberry Sauce – A tangy contrast.
• Stuffing – Herbaceous and hearty.

Presentation Tips

• Use a Decorative Dish: Serve in a festive casserole dish.
• Garnish: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
• Serve Hot: Straight from the oven to keep the onions crispy.

FAQs: Common Questions

Conclusion

The Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole remains a comforting classic, perfect for holidays and family meals. Whether sticking to the original recipe or experimenting with creative twists, it brings warmth and flavor to every table.