Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole Recipe: The green bean casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a cultural icon, especially during the holiday season in American households. Created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly at the Campbell Soup Company, this recipe was originally developed as a simple, quick, and affordable dish using common pantry staples. The goal? Make a delicious vegetable side that didn’t require a trip to a specialty store. Over time, it evolved into a must-have on Thanksgiving tables across the U.S., winning hearts with its creamy texture, rich umami flavor, and that iconic crunchy fried onion topping.
Why It’s a Holiday Favorite
What makes the Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole so special? It’s the perfect marriage of convenience and comfort. You get that creamy, savory taste from the mushroom soup, freshness from the green beans, and a delightful crunch from the French’s fried onions. Plus, it’s versatile—you can prep it ahead, toss it in the oven just before dinner, and serve a dish that looks and tastes homemade. It’s nostalgic for many, reminding people of childhood dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients Breakdown
To make the traditional Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup – The creamy base.
- 1/2 cup milk – Helps to smooth out the soup.
- 1 tsp soy sauce – Adds depth and umami.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper – For a touch of spice.
- 4 cups cooked cut green beans (or 2 cans, drained) – The star of the show.
- 1 1/3 cups French’s® French Fried Onions – For crunch and flavor.
Each of these ingredients serves a vital purpose. The soup binds everything together, while the milk and soy sauce add flavor balance. Green beans bring freshness, and the fried onions elevate the dish with a crispy finish.
Optional Add-Ins for a Twist
Want to personalize your casserole? Try these fun variations:
- Add shredded cheddar cheese for a gooey, cheesy twist.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or garlic for extra earthiness.
- Top with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan for a gourmet finish.
- Use fresh green beans instead of canned for a crunchier texture.
- Throw in cooked bacon bits for a smoky punch.
These tweaks can transform your casserole from classic to custom, depending on what your guests prefer.
Tools and Equipment Required
Basic Kitchen Tools
Before diving in, make sure you have these basics:
- Measuring cups and spoons – Precision matters, especially with liquids like milk and soy sauce.
- Mixing bowl – To combine all the ingredients smoothly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For even mixing without crushing the green beans.
Prep and Cooking Tools
You’ll also need:
- 9×13 inch baking dish – Ideal size for evenly spreading the mixture.
- Oven mitts – Safety first when pulling out the hot dish.
- Aluminum foil (optional) – Useful if you want to prevent the top from browning too quickly.
Having the right tools makes the process smoother and helps avoid common kitchen frustrations like undercooked centers or spilled casseroles.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, drain your canned green beans or blanch fresh ones until they’re tender but still bright green. Set them aside to cool slightly.
In your mixing bowl, pour in the can of Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, add 1/2 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir until it forms a smooth, creamy base.
Then, fold in 4 cups of green beans and 2/3 cup of French fried onions. Make sure everything is well coated but not mushy.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Take your greased 9×13 baking dish and pour the green bean mixture into it. Use your spatula to spread it evenly. This ensures every bite is consistent, with just the right amount of sauce and crunch.
This is where you can get creative. Want more crunch? Add an extra sprinkle of onions into the mixture before baking. Prefer cheesy? Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar right here.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly. Then, carefully pull it out, top it with the remaining 2/3 cup French fried onions, and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the top is golden brown.
Let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving so the casserole can set and become easier to scoop.
Tips for Making the Perfect Casserole
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the simplest recipes can go sideways without a little attention to detail. Here are a few pitfalls to steer clear of when whipping up your Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole:
- Overcooking the Green Beans: If you’re using fresh green beans, make sure to blanch them only briefly. Overcooking can make them mushy and dull in color.
- Skipping the Soy Sauce: It might seem like a minor ingredient, but soy sauce is the hidden hero—it boosts the umami and makes the dish taste richer.
- Adding Fried Onions Too Early: Don’t top the casserole with all the fried onions before the initial bake—they’ll burn. Always add the majority during the last 5-10 minutes.
- Not Draining Canned Green Beans Properly: Extra liquid will water down the sauce, leaving you with a soupy mess instead of a creamy casserole.
Avoiding these mistakes ensures your casserole comes out just the way it should—rich, savory, and packed with texture.
Pro Tips for Better Flavor
Want to take your casserole from good to unforgettable? Try these expert suggestions:
- Use Freshly Ground Pepper: It gives a more vibrant flavor than pre-ground pepper.
- Sauté Mushrooms Before Adding: If you want more depth, sauté mushrooms with garlic and a touch of butter before mixing them in.
- Cheese It Up: A sprinkle of sharp cheddar or Gruyère can elevate the entire dish.
- Season in Layers: Taste your mushroom mixture before baking. If it needs more salt or pepper, add it before combining with green beans.
Also, try using Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom with Roasted Garlic for a subtle flavor twist—it enhances the richness without overpowering the classic taste.
Tips for the Best Green Bean Casserole
Want your green bean casserole to go from good to absolutely unforgettable? Here are some tried-and-true tips that elevate this simple dish to superstar status.
1. Don’t Skip the Blanching (If Using Fresh Beans)
Fresh green beans are fantastic for flavor and crunch, but they need a quick blanch before baking. Blanching for about 4–5 minutes and then shocking them in ice water keeps them tender yet crisp. It also preserves that vibrant green color, which makes your casserole pop visually.
2. Go Easy on the Salt
Remember, canned soup and fried onions already contain a fair amount of sodium. Taste your mixture before adding more salt—you’ll probably find it doesn’t need any extra.
3. Add Texture with Extra Veggies
Want more complexity? Add sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or diced red bell peppers to the mix. They bring layers of texture and richness that complement the creamy base beautifully.
4. Make It a Meal
Turn this side dish into a main course by adding cooked, chopped chicken or turkey. It’s a great way to use up holiday leftovers while keeping everyone satisfied.
5. Don’t Overbake the Topping
Fried onions are delicate. Once you add them on top, watch closely during the final 5–10 minutes of baking. You want golden brown, not burnt to a crisp.
6. Use a Shallow Dish
A shallow baking dish ensures even heat distribution, which helps everything cook uniformly. Deep dishes may cause the casserole’s center to remain mushy while the edges overcook.
7. Give It a Rest
Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps it firm up slightly, making it easier to serve clean slices.
Variations of the Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole
While the classic version hits the spot, sometimes it’s fun to mix things up. Whether you’re accommodating dietary needs or just feeling creative, here are some popular variations worth trying.
Vegan Version
Swap out the Campbell’s soup for a vegan mushroom soup or make your own with plant-based milk and sautéed mushrooms thickened with flour. Use almond or oat milk in place of dairy, and opt for dairy-free fried onions or homemade crispy shallots.
Gluten-Free Version
Use a certified gluten-free cream of mushroom soup (some brands offer this), and make sure your fried onions are gluten-free. Check labels carefully—gluten can hide in seasonings and coatings.
Cheesy Twist
Love cheese? Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the soup mixture. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top before the final bake can add a rich, savory kick.
Spicy Kick
Add a chopped jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup mixture for a bit of heat. You can also stir in pepper jack cheese for a spicy, melty upgrade.
Gourmet Upgrade
Use wild mushrooms like shiitake or cremini sautéed in garlic and butter. Replace canned soup with a homemade béchamel sauce and top with homemade fried shallots. The result? A rich, upscale version that’s holiday-worthy.
Serving Suggestions
Green bean casserole is the ultimate team player—it pairs beautifully with just about any protein and fits right in on a holiday spread.
Best Main Dishes to Serve With:
- Roast turkey or chicken
- Honey-glazed ham
- Prime rib or beef tenderloin
- Grilled pork chops
Side Dish Pairings:
- Mashed potatoes with gravy
- Sweet potato casserole
- Cranberry sauce
- Cornbread stuffing
Creative Serving Ideas:
- Serve in individual ramekins for a fancy twist
- Turn leftovers into a savory pie by adding pastry on top and baking
- Layer it over toasted bread or a baked potato for a quick lunch
Whether you’re setting a buffet table or hosting a formal dinner, green bean casserole adds a nostalgic and flavorful touch.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
One of the best things about this casserole? It stores and reheats like a dream. Here’s how to make the most of your leftovers.
Storing:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil. It’ll stay good for 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Green bean casserole can be frozen, but note that the texture may change slightly. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes. If the topping looks too dark, cover with foil until the last 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat single servings for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway. Add a splash of milk or broth if it seems dry.
- Air Fryer (for crispy topping): Reheat portions at 325°F for about 5–7 minutes to regain that crispy edge.
For best results, always reheat uncovered to help maintain the casserole’s texture.
Nutritional Information
Let’s face it—green bean casserole isn’t exactly diet food. But if you’re mindful of what’s on your plate, it helps to know what you’re working with. The classic Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole strikes a balance between comfort and convenience, and with a few tweaks, it can fit into a variety of dietary lifestyles.
Standard Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, approx. 1 cup):
- Calories: 180–200 kcal
- Fat: 11–13g
- Carbohydrates: 16–18g
- Protein: 3–5g
- Sodium: 500–700mg (can vary by soup and onion brands)
Healthier Swaps:
- Low-sodium soup: Campbell’s and other brands offer low-sodium or heart-healthy versions of their soups.
- Unsweetened almond milk: A great low-calorie replacement for whole milk.
- Baked onions or panko crumbs: If you’re watching fat or calories, swap the fried onions with a lighter topping.
- More veggies, fewer calories: Add in mushrooms, cauliflower, or zucchini to bulk up the dish with fiber and vitamins.
Though this dish is indulgent, it’s all about portion control. Enjoying a moderate serving alongside a plate of lean protein and salad keeps your meal balanced.
Why This Recipe Works
So what’s the secret behind the enduring popularity of the Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole? It’s not just tradition—there’s actual culinary science at play here.
1. Umami Overload
Cream of mushroom soup, soy sauce, and fried onions all pack a savory punch, hitting those rich, deep umami notes that our taste buds love.
2. Creamy + Crunchy Contrast
The creamy base envelops each bite, while the crispy fried onions on top create a satisfying texture. That balance is what keeps people coming back for seconds (or thirds).
3. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
Even with just a few items, the recipe creates layers of taste. Each component is doing some heavy lifting without needing complex spices or techniques.
4. Foolproof Cooking Method
Whether you’re a beginner cook or seasoned home chef, this recipe delivers reliable results. It’s nearly impossible to mess up, which adds to its universal appeal.
Perfect Occasions to Serve This Dish
While it’s best known as a Thanksgiving or Christmas side, green bean casserole isn’t just a once-a-year wonder. Here are a few perfect times to whip it up:
- Holiday Gatherings: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter—it fits right in.
- Potlucks and Picnics: Travels well, reheats well, and always disappears fast.
- Sunday Dinners: Make a batch for a cozy family meal.
- Friendsgiving: Easy to double or triple for larger crowds.
- Midweek Comfort Food: Have leftovers or a craving? It’s quick enough to whip up on a weeknight.
Because of its rich and creamy profile, it’s a wonderful complement to lean meats and roasted dishes—no matter the season.
FAQs about Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole Recipe
What is Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole made of?
The classic recipe includes canned green beans, Campbell’s® Cream of Mushroom Soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and crispy fried onions. Simple ingredients, timeless flavor.
Can I use fresh or frozen green beans instead of canned?
Yes! Fresh or frozen green beans work just fine. Just blanch them first to soften slightly—this keeps the casserole tender, not crunchy.
Can I make Campbell’s green bean casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Just hold off on adding the crispy onions until baking time, so they stay nice and crunchy.
How long should I bake the green bean casserole?
Bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 25–30 minutes. Add the fried onions on top for the last 5 minutes to get that signature golden crunch.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
The base recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but double-check the soup label—some versions of cream of mushroom may include animal products.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You sure can! Swap in a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup and plant-based milk to make it suitable for dairy-free diets.
How do I store leftovers?
Pop leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
There’s a reason Campbell Soup’s Green Bean Casserole has stood the test of time. It’s a perfect marriage of flavor, texture, and nostalgia. Whether you’re keeping it classic or putting your own spin on it, this dish offers versatility and comfort in every bite. Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, it deserves a permanent place in your recipe box.
So next time you’re planning your holiday meal—or even just craving something cozy and creamy—don’t overlook this beloved classic. It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm memory waiting to be served.
