Campbells Green Bean Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a beloved tradition that brings warmth and comfort to tables across America. Originating in the mid-20th century, this creamy, savory casserole has become a staple at family gatherings, holiday feasts, and potluck dinners. What makes Campbells Green Bean Casserole so adored? Perhaps it’s the perfect blend of tender green beans, rich cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions, all coming together to create a dish that is both simple and satisfying. As soon as you take a bite, you’re transported back to cozy family dinners, where laughter and love fill the air. This dish is not just about the ingredients; it’s about the memories and moments shared over a warm plate of goodness.
What Is Campbells Green Bean Casserole
Campbells Green Bean Casserole is a creamy, baked dish that combines fresh or canned green beans with a luscious cream of mushroom soup, topped with crispy fried onions. The texture is a delightful contrast, with the tender green beans providing a slight crunch, enveloped in the velvety sauce, and crowned with a golden, crispy layer on top. Unlike other vegetable casseroles that may rely heavily on cheese, the unique combination of creaminess and crispy onions in Campbells Green Bean Casserole sets it apart, making it a beloved comfort food that resonates with both young and old alike.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is a breeze to whip up.
- Delicious Flavor: The harmonious blend of flavors makes each bite a delightful experience.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist its comforting taste and texture.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual weeknight meal, it fits right in.
How Does It Taste?
When you dig into Campbells Green Bean Casserole, you’re met with a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The savory cream of mushroom soup provides a rich backbone, while the green beans add a fresh, slightly crisp bite. The fried onions on top contribute a satisfying crunch and a hint of sweetness, perfectly balancing the dish. Each spoonful is a warm embrace, with the creaminess enveloping the green beans in a delightful comfort that makes you want to reach for more.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
One of the key ingredients in Campbells Green Bean Casserole is green beans, which are low in calories but high in vitamins A, C, and K, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. The cream of mushroom soup, while creamy and indulgent, also provides some protein, making it a hearty option. Additionally, fried onions, while adding a crunchy texture, can offer a satisfying crunch without overpowering the dish. Overall, this casserole strikes a balance between indulgence and nutrition, making it a feel-good choice for any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) green beans – Fresh or frozen can be used, but canned green beans are traditional for convenience.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup – This is the base of the casserole, adding creaminess and flavor.
- 1 cup milk – Helps to thin out the soup and make the casserole creamy.
- 1 cup French’s Fried Onions – These add a crunchy topping, providing that classic flavor and texture.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce – A little umami flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle kick to the casserole.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – For combining the ingredients.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – Perfect size for baking the casserole.
- Spoon or spatula – For mixing ingredients thoroughly.
- Oven – To bake the casserole until bubbly and golden.
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Dairy-free options: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version.
- Gluten-free: Ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce and check your soup can for gluten-free labeling.
- Spice variations: You can add garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick.
- Vegetable additions: Consider adding sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.
How to Make Campbells Green Bean Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans
Open the cans of green beans and drain them well. If you prefer, you can also use fresh green beans, but remember to blanch them first until they’re just tender.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained green beans, Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly mixed and coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly using your spatula. This ensures that everything bakes uniformly.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Sprinkle 1/2 cup of French’s Fried Onions over the top of the casserole. This will give it a delicious crunch once baked.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to bubble around the edges.
Step 7: Add More Crunch
After 25 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of French’s Fried Onions on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
Step 8: Serve
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What to Serve With
This Campbells Green Bean Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or a hearty meatloaf. For sides, mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad complement it nicely. For drinks, a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea would be delightful choices.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time to prevent the casserole from drying out.
- Mix it well: Ensure that all ingredients are thoroughly mixed to achieve even flavor in every bite.
- Customize your crunch: Feel free to add more fried onions if you love extra crunch on top!
- Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking; it helps set the dish for easier serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using unseasoned green beans: Make sure to drain and rinse canned beans to remove excess salt and improve flavor.
- Skipping the step of adding more fried onions: Adding them halfway through baking is crucial for that perfect crunchy topping.
- Overmixing the casserole: Be gentle when mixing to prevent the green beans from breaking down too much.
- Not preheating the oven: Always preheat to ensure the casserole bakes evenly from the start.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. If you prefer, you can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
- Can I freeze Campbells Green Bean Casserole? While it’s best fresh, you can freeze it before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
- What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup? You can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or a homemade cream sauce.
- Is there a vegetarian option? Yes, simply use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth and ensure your fried onions are vegetarian.
Nutritional Info
This Campbells Green Bean Casserole serves approximately 8 people, with each serving containing around 150-200 calories, depending on the exact amounts of ingredients used. Expect about 6g of protein, 7g of fat, and 20g of carbohydrates per serving, making it a hearty addition to any meal.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried Campbells Green Bean Casserole yet, you’re truly missing out on a classic that brings warmth and joy to any gathering! This delightful dish combines tender green beans with creamy mushroom soup, topped off with crispy fried onions for that perfect crunch. It’s not just easy to make; it’s also a heartwarming reminder of family traditions and holiday feasts. I love how versatile Campbells Green Bean Casserole is—it pairs beautifully with any main dish, making it a staple on my dinner table. So, why not gather your loved ones and whip up this delicious recipe? I promise it will become a cherished favorite in your home, just as it has in mine!
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
This classic Green Bean Casserole is easy, budget-friendly, and perfect for your Thanksgiving table. Made with canned green beans, canned soup, and crispy fried onions, it’s ready in under 40 minutes, and you can make it ahead of time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 (15-ounce) cans green beans (drained)
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ⅓ cups French fried onions
Instructions
-
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×9 baking dish. -
Step 2
In a large bowl, mix the green beans, soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and 2/3 cup of onions. Spread into the baking dish. -
Step 3
Bake for 25 minutes until hot and bubbly, then sprinkle on the remaining 2/3 cup onions and bake 5 minutes longer.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.
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