Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole Recipe: Every year as the holidays roll around, one dish consistently graces the tables of millions of families across America—green bean casserole. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting symbol of home, tradition, and shared memories. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any other family gathering, the creamy, crunchy combination of green beans and fried onions brings a nostalgic flavor that bridges generations. The recipe has stood the test of time, cherished by those who crave something both familiar and delicious.
Created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly in the Campbell Test Kitchen, this dish was designed to be simple, affordable, and made with ingredients already in most pantries. And guess what? It worked. Over the decades, green bean casserole has earned its place in the American culinary hall of fame. It’s more than just food—it’s a tradition.
The Role of Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show—Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup. This humble can is the magic that ties the whole dish together. With its velvety texture and umami-rich flavor, it transforms a handful of simple ingredients into a creamy, comforting casserole. What’s great about it is its convenience. No need to make a béchamel sauce from scratch. One can does it all—adds creaminess, binds the casserole, and provides depth of flavor.
Campbell’s version is thick, flavorful, and acts as the glue that holds the green beans and crispy onions in perfect harmony. It’s what gives this dish its iconic identity.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Fresh vs. Canned Green Beans
When it comes to green bean casserole, you have options—fresh, canned, or frozen green beans. Each choice affects texture and flavor.
- Canned green beans are soft and easy to work with. They’re perfect for the original version of the recipe, which prioritizes convenience.
- Fresh green beans offer a crisper texture and a more vibrant flavor but require blanching before using.
- Frozen green beans are a nice middle ground. They have better texture than canned but are just as easy to use.
For a more elevated version of the casserole, many home cooks today prefer fresh green beans. Just give them a quick boil in salted water, drain, and cool before adding them to the mix.
The Secret Ingredient – French Fried Onions
Ah, the crispy fried onions—possibly the most irresistible part of the casserole. These golden-brown toppers add crunch, flavor, and that little something extra. Most traditional recipes use about 1 1/3 cups of French’s French Fried Onions, and they’re both mixed into the casserole and sprinkled generously on top.
You can find them in most grocery stores, usually near the salad toppings or canned vegetables. Some folks even make their own from scratch using thinly sliced shallots or onions, lightly floured and fried. Either way, this element is a non-negotiable for achieving that classic casserole texture.
Kitchen Tools for Perfect Casserole
Baking Dish Essentials
To make green bean casserole the right way, you’ll need a good-quality baking dish—preferably a 9×13 inch glass or ceramic dish. This size is perfect for even cooking and generous portions. Plus, it makes for easy serving and a beautiful presentation on the table.
A glass dish helps you keep an eye on the bottom layer, so nothing burns or overcooks. Ceramic dishes retain heat better, which is ideal for buffet-style meals where food needs to stay warm longer.
Prepping and Measuring Tools
- Mixing bowls: For combining soup, green beans, milk, and half the onions.
- Measuring cups/spoons: Precision ensures consistency in flavor and texture.
- Spatula or large spoon: For gently folding the ingredients together.
- Aluminum foil: Optional, but useful if you want to cover the dish halfway through baking to prevent the top from browning too quickly.
With these tools in your kitchen arsenal, you’re all set to whip up this classic in no time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Green Bean Casserole
Step 1 – Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for evenly heating the casserole without drying it out or over-browning the top. You want everything to meld together slowly and harmoniously. Starting with a hot oven also ensures that the onions on top become crispy without burning.
Now, as your oven warms up, it’s the perfect time to get everything else ready. Having a preheated oven means you won’t lose any time, and your casserole will go from prep to table in under 45 minutes.
Step 2 – Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups cooked green beans (or 2 cans, drained)
- 2/3 cup French fried onions
Stir everything gently but thoroughly. You want the soup and milk to evenly coat the green beans, ensuring every bite is creamy and flavorful. Don’t crush the onions while mixing—they add that signature crunch.
Transfer this mixture into your baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 3 – Bake Until Golden
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. At the 25-minute mark, carefully remove the dish, stir the casserole gently, and sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup of French fried onions on top.
Pop it back into the oven for another 5 to 10 minutes or until the onions are golden brown and crispy. The top should have a nice, bubbly crust, and the edges of the casserole should start to brown just slightly.
Once done, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to firm up slightly and makes it easier to portion out.
Pro Tips for a Tastier Casserole
Making it Creamier
Want to take your casserole from “great” to “oh wow”? Then let’s make it creamier. While the Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup already adds a rich base, you can enhance the texture even more with a few clever additions. Try mixing in 1/4 cup of sour cream or cream cheese. This gives your casserole a luscious, velvety mouthfeel and deepens the flavor.
Another tip? Warm the soup and milk mixture slightly before combining it with the beans. This helps everything meld together more smoothly and avoids that sometimes clumpy texture when cold ingredients meet hot oven heat too fast.
Lastly, don’t skimp on seasoning. A pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or a splash of soy sauce can go a long way in giving your casserole that gourmet feel without complicating the recipe.
Adding Extra Crunch and Flavor
French fried onions are already a game-changer, but there are ways to up the crunch factor. Try mixing crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and adding them to the top layer along with the fried onions. This combo creates a delightful contrast of textures.
For flavor, a sprinkle of shredded cheese—cheddar, parmesan, or gruyere—can work wonders. You can also stir in sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even bits of bacon for that smoky, savory note. These tiny tweaks can transform a standard casserole into something everyone raves about.
Spice lovers? A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes will give it that subtle kick that keeps you going back for seconds.
Variations on the Classic Recipe
Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives
If you’re catering to vegetarian or vegan guests, don’t worry—this dish can be easily adapted. For a vegetarian version, just stick to the classic recipe but double-check the soup ingredients. Some cream of mushroom soups contain chicken stock, so opt for a vegetarian-certified brand or make your own using plant-based cream and sautéed mushrooms.
Going vegan? Swap the cream of mushroom soup for a dairy-free alternative made with almond milk and vegan butter. Use plant-based milk instead of regular milk, and choose vegan fried onions or make your own using a light chickpea flour batter. You’ll still get that creamy, crispy goodness, but 100% plant-based.
You can even find pre-made vegan mushroom soups in stores now, making it easier than ever to adapt this dish without sacrificing flavor.
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole Twist
For those who believe everything is better with cheese (which is a lot of us!), adding a cheesy twist is the move. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a gooey, melty addition.
Cheese also helps make the casserole heartier, which is perfect if you’re serving it as a main course instead of a side. Sprinkle some extra cheese on top before baking for a beautiful golden-brown crust.
If you want to go all out, try layering cheese in between the green beans and topping. That way, every scoop gets that irresistible cheese pull that nobody can resist.
Serving Suggestions
What to Pair With Green Bean Casserole
This casserole might be a side dish by tradition, but it often steals the spotlight. To complement its creamy, savory flavor, pair it with a roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a juicy meatloaf. For vegetarians, it works beautifully alongside a lentil loaf or stuffed portobello mushrooms.
Starches like mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, or stuffing make perfect partners, rounding out the meal with rich, comforting textures. Want a bit of brightness? Serve it with a crisp green salad or cranberry sauce to balance the richness with acidity and crunch.
Drinks-wise, a glass of dry white wine or sparkling cider cuts through the creaminess and enhances the dish’s umami notes.
Ideal Occasions to Serve
Green bean casserole is synonymous with holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, but it doesn’t have to be confined to just those dates. It’s a wonderful addition to Sunday dinners, potlucks, or even as a surprise weeknight treat.
Hosting a Friendsgiving? This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that travels well and reheats like a charm. Want to make someone’s day? Drop off a freshly baked casserole to a neighbor or a friend—it’s the kind of comfort food everyone appreciates.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Best Practices for Storage
Got leftovers? Lucky you. Store your green bean casserole in an airtight container or cover the original baking dish with plastic wrap or foil. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation from making the top soggy.
If you’re thinking long-term, yes—you can freeze it. Scoop portions into freezer-safe containers and it’ll last for up to a month. Just be aware that the crispy onions on top may soften after freezing, so consider adding fresh onions when reheating.
How to Keep the Topping Crunchy
To revive that crispy top, the oven is your best friend. Avoid the microwave unless you’re okay with a soft texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F, and bake the leftovers uncovered for 15–20 minutes. If the topping needs more crunch, you can sprinkle on a few more fried onions before popping it back in.
Another trick? Use a toaster oven or an air fryer for small portions. These appliances crisp up leftovers quickly and effectively.
Nutritional Information
Calories and Macronutrient Breakdown
Let’s break down what’s really inside a serving of classic Campbell’s green bean casserole. While this comfort food may not scream “low-calorie,” it’s not exactly a diet buster either—especially in moderation. A standard 3/4 cup serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 160-180
- Fat: 9-11g (mostly from the fried onions and soup)
- Carbohydrates: 15-18g
- Protein: 2-4g
- Sodium: 600-800mg
Most of the fat content comes from the soup and crispy onions, while the sodium level can be high due to canned ingredients. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium or heart-healthy versions of the cream of mushroom soup and rinse your canned green beans well before using.
Green beans themselves are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making them a healthy base. It’s the added ingredients that change the nutrition profile, but with a few smart swaps, you can keep things balanced without losing flavor.
Making It Healthier
You can definitely enjoy this dish without overloading on calories or sodium. Here’s how to lighten things up:
- Use low-fat or fat-free soup instead of the regular variety. Campbell’s makes heart-healthy and reduced-fat versions.
- Choose fresh or frozen green beans over canned for more vitamins and less sodium.
- Use almond milk or low-fat dairy instead of whole milk or cream.
- Cut the fried onions in half or use a lighter topping like crushed whole-grain crackers.
Want to go all in? Try making your own cream of mushroom base using low-sodium broth, fresh mushrooms, onions, and a splash of milk thickened with a bit of flour. It takes more time but gives you complete control over the ingredients.
FAQs about Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Can I Make Green Bean Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance—just hold off on adding the fried onions on top until you’re ready to bake. Store it covered in the fridge and then bake as usual.
Can I Use Fresh Mushrooms Instead of Soup?
Absolutely. Sauté chopped mushrooms in a little butter and garlic, then add some flour and milk to create a homemade mushroom sauce. It’s fresher and lets you control the seasoning.
How Do I Prevent a Soggy Topping?
Always add the fried onions at the end of baking. You can even broil the dish for the last minute or two for extra crunch. Don’t cover the casserole during the final bake.
Is This Dish Gluten-Free?
Not by default, since both the soup and fried onions usually contain gluten. But gluten-free versions of both are available in most grocery stores. Or, make your own at home with gluten-free ingredients.
Can I Freeze Leftover Casserole?
Yes, though the texture may change slightly. Let it cool completely, store it in a freezer-safe container, and reheat in the oven for best results. Add a fresh layer of fried onions before reheating for extra crunch.
Conclusion
Green bean casserole isn’t just a side dish—it’s a comfort classic. With its creamy base, tender green beans, and crispy fried onion topping, it’s no wonder this recipe has stood the test of time. Whether you’re sticking to the original Campbell’s version or jazzing it up with your own twists, it’s a dish that brings people together.
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this casserole proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special. So next time you’re planning a family meal, don’t forget to add green bean casserole to the menu—it might just steal the show.
