Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole — Easy Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipe
I have fond memories of sitting at my grandmother’s kitchen table while the house filled with the smell of savory mushroom soup and toasted onions. She always reached for a can of Campbell’s when making green bean casserole, and that simple, comforting dish became the official signal that the holidays had arrived. I still love Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole because it’s an effortless, nostalgic side that brings people together — a true American classic originally developed by Campbell’s test kitchen in the 1950s to create a quick, family-friendly holiday dish.
Who is this recipe for?
- This recipe is perfect for busy parents, beginner cooks, and anyone looking for a classic, fuss-free Thanksgiving or weeknight side.
Core ingredients overview:
- This dish combines crisp-tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, crunchy fried onions, milk, and a touch of soy sauce to create a rich, savory, and easy-to-prepare casserole that pairs beautifully with roast turkey or ham.
Tools & Ingredients
Tools
- 9×13-inch baking dish or similar ovenproof casserole dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula for stirring
- Oven mitts
- Colander (if using fresh or frozen green beans)
Ingredients (with benefits)
- Green beans – add fresh, vibrant texture and a serving of fiber and vitamins
- Condensed mushroom soup (Campbell’s style) – provides savory umami and creamy base for the casserole
- Fried onions (store-bought crispy fried onions) – deliver crunchy topping and flavor contrast
- Milk – thins the soup to a smooth, bake-ready consistency and adds creaminess
- Soy sauce – enhances umami depth and balances the dish with a touch of saltiness
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the green beans, condensed mushroom soup, milk, and soy sauce. Stir gently until evenly coated.
- Stir in half of the fried onions to incorporate some crunch throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and top with the remaining fried onions.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes until the fried onions are golden brown and crisp. Serve warm.
FAQ
Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: Yes. To freeze, assemble the casserole without the fried onion topping, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the fried onions, and bake as directed (you may need a few extra minutes if still slightly chilled).
Q: What can I use instead of fried onions?
A: You can substitute toasted breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or homemade panko crisp topping for a different texture. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free crispy onions or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Q: Can I use fresh or frozen green beans instead of canned?
A: Absolutely. Fresh or frozen green beans work great — blanch fresh beans briefly or thaw frozen beans before mixing to avoid excess moisture. They often provide a firmer texture than canned.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes. Prepare the casserole through step 4, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the fried onions and bake just before serving. If chilled, you may need to add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
Tips & Tricks
- Drain well: If using canned green beans, thoroughly drain them to avoid a watery casserole.
- Don’t overmix: Stir gently to keep the green beans from breaking down; you want distinct beans, not a mashed texture.
- Toast the onions briefly: If you prefer extra crunch, pop the fried onions in the oven for a minute or two before topping the casserole.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the mixed filling before baking; add a pinch of pepper or a touch more soy sauce if needed, but remember the fried onions add salt too.
Conclusion
For the original Campbell’s take on this classic, see Green Bean Casserole | Campbell’s® Recipes. If you’d like a popular home-cook version and variations, check out Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole Recipe. For serving ideas and a Thanksgiving-focused writeup, visit Campbells Green Bean Casserole (Thanksgiving Classic) – Upstate ….
Enjoy this comforting classic — share it with family and friends and savor the memories it brings.