Master the classic Campbells Green Bean Casserole Dish with our easy recipe. Perfect crispy onions and creamy sauce for a crowd-pleasing dish!
Growing up, Thanksgiving wasn’t complete without my grandmother’s Campbell’s green bean casserole. The moment the crispy golden onions came out of the oven, we all gathered eagerly. We knew a classic holiday side dish was on its way.
The Campbell’s green bean casserole recipe has been a favorite in American homes for years. It turns simple ingredients into a comforting dish that brings families together. Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to holiday meals, making this casserole is easier than you think.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Campbell’s green bean casserole serves 20 million Thanksgiving dinners annually
- The recipe requires minimal preparation and uses common pantry ingredients
- A 2-quart casserole dish is recommended for optimal results
- Cooking time varies between oven (25 minutes) and air fryer (10 minutes)
- Versatile recipe allows substitutions for green beans
The History Behind Campbell’s Iconic Green Bean Casserole
The green bean casserole is a classic American dish loved by many. It was created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly at the Campbell Soup Company. This dish quickly became a comfort food favorite, changing holiday meals forever.
Dorcas Reilly’s Original Creation
Reilly’s recipe came from the Campbell’s Test Kitchen. It used simple ingredients that became a staple in American homes. The original recipe included:
- Green beans
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Milk
- Soy sauce
- Black pepper
- French fried onions
Evolution Into a Holiday Classic
The casserole’s rise to holiday fame is amazing. By the 1960s, it was a Thanksgiving must-have. By 2004, 20 million households were including it in their Thanksgiving celebrations.
“A recipe that brings generations together, blending flavors and traditions passed down through time.”
Why This Recipe Stands the Test of Time
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1955 | Recipe Created |
| 1998 | Recognized as Cooking Heritage |
| 2002 | Inducted into National Inventors Hall of Fame |
| 2020 | Served in 20 Million Thanksgiving Dinners |
The green bean casserole’s lasting appeal is clear. It’s simple, affordable, and brings back memories. With 4 million recipe views each Thanksgiving, it’s a cherished tradition for many Americans.
Essential Ingredients for Your Campbells Green Bean Casserole Dish
To make the perfect Campbell’s green bean casserole, you need the right ingredients. This dish has been loved by 20 million families for years. Let’s explore the key ingredients that make it a classic.
The heart of a great green bean casserole is its simple yet tasty ingredients. Here are the main things you’ll need:
- Green Beans: Whether you prefer canned, frozen, or fresh, green beans are a versatile and convenient option for any meal. The most traditional choice is canned.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup makes the dish creamy and rich.
- French Fried Onions: These add a crunchy topping and lots of flavor.
The classic recipe needs just five ingredients:
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) of green beans
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
- 1-1/3 cups of french fried onions (divided)
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
“The beauty of this dish is its simplicity and versatility,” says home cooking enthusiasts.
Pro tip: Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. Whether it’s for a holiday or a family dinner, these ingredients will make a dish everyone will enjoy.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Green Beans | 2 cans (14.5 oz) | Main vegetable base |
| Cream of Mushroom Soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | Creamy binding sauce |
| French Fried Onions | 1-1/3 cups | Crispy topping |
Get ready to wow your guests with this classic dish. It’s quick to prepare and cooks in just 30 minutes!
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Green bean casserole is more than a tasty side dish. It’s also full of nutrients, making it a great choice for your holiday meals. Knowing the nutritional facts of Campbell’s green bean casserole helps you make better food choices while enjoying this classic dish.
Detailed Nutrient Breakdown
A typical serving of green bean casserole has a balanced mix of nutrients. Let’s take a closer look at the main elements:
- Calories: Approximately 232 per serving
- Total Fat: 9g
- Sodium: 624 mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 3g
Portion Size Guidelines
Controlling portion sizes is key when choosing healthy side dishes. A standard serving is about 1/2 cup. This size offers important nutrients without overloading your meal.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin A | 12% | 12% |
| Vitamin C | 21% | 21% |
| Calcium | 80 mg | 4% |
| Potassium | 401 mg | 8% |
Dietary Considerations
Green beans are a nutritional gem. They’re low in calories, rich in fiber, and full of minerals like manganese, potassium, and calcium. For those with specific dietary needs, green bean casserole can be a flexible dish that meets various nutritional requirements.
“According to nutrition expert Dr. [Name], fresh green beans are the best choice for your health, offering the highest nutritional value. Sarah Thompson.
Looking for a side dish that’s both nutritious and pleases a crowd? Green bean casserole is a great choice. It brings flavor and nutritional value to any meal.
Preparation Tips and Techniques
Mastering the green bean casserole requires focus and some key techniques. Whether you’re new to cooking or have experience, these tips will make your dish stand out.
Begin by getting all your ingredients ready and setting up your workspace. The right start can greatly improve your dish.
- Drain green beans well to avoid too much moisture
- Use a mandoline for even shallot slices
- Preheat your oven to 350°F for even baking
- Choose low-sodium products to manage saltiness
“According to culinary experts, the secret to a perfect green bean casserole lies in thorough preparation”.
Here are some advanced techniques for your green bean casserole:
- Blanch fresh green beans for the best texture
- Try white miso for a deeper flavor
- Use half-and-half for a creamier sauce
- Mix soup, milk, and seasonings well before combining
Timing is key in making Campbell’s green bean casserole. Here’s a quick guide:
| Preparation Stage | Time Needed |
|---|---|
| Ingredient Preparation | 10-15 minutes |
| Mixing | 5-10 minutes |
| Baking | 25-30 minutes |
| Resting | 5-10 minutes |
Pro tip: Fry your shallots up to a month ahead for easy prep. The oil can be stored for up to three months and used in other recipes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making the perfect green bean casserole needs precision and care. This timeless dish has been a beloved family favorite for generations. Learning the cooking technique ensures a delicious side that will wow your guests.
Mixing the Base
Begin your green bean casserole journey by gathering these key ingredients:
- Two cans of cream of mushroom soup, each 10.75 oz.
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and seasonings until smooth. This creamy base is the heart of your campbell’s green bean casserole recipe.
Layering Techniques
Proper layering is key for an evenly cooked casserole:
- Gently fold in 2 bags of frozen green beans
- Mix in 1/2 cup of crispy onions
- Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Baking Times and Temperature
For the perfect campbell’s green bean casserole recipe, follow these precise baking instructions:
| Stage | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Baking | 350°F | 25 minutes |
| Final Topping | 350°F | 5 minutes |
Pro tip: Watch the casserole closely during the final 5 minutes to prevent burning the crispy onion topping. The goal is a golden-brown, crunchy finish that adds texture to your dish.
“The secret to a great green bean casserole is in the details of preparation and baking.” – Culinary Expert
Customization Options and Variations
Make your classic Campbell’s green bean casserole even better with creative twists. These changes can add flavor or meet special dietary needs. They’ll turn your traditional dish into something new and exciting.
Cheese Lovers’ Variations
For a cheesy campbells green bean casserole, try these tasty options:
- Sprinkle sharp cheddar cheese on top before baking
- Mix in crumbled blue cheese for a tangy twist
- Add grated Parmesan for a crispy, golden crust
Bacon Boost
Try a campbells green bean casserole with bacon for a smoky flavor:
- Crumble crispy bacon over the top before serving
- Mix cooked bacon pieces into the casserole base
- Use bacon bits as an alternative topping to fried onions
| Variation Type | Key Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Cheese Variation | Cheddar, Parmesan, Blue Cheese | Rich, Tangy, Creamy |
| Bacon Variation | Crispy Bacon, Bacon Bits | Smoky, Savory, Crunchy |
| Soup Alternatives | Cream of Celery, Cream of Chicken | Versatile, Adaptable |
Pro tip: Start with small batches to find your favorite mix. The beauty of this dish is its flexibility!
“Creativity in the kitchen means taking a recipe and adding your personal touch, making it truly your own.” – Culinary Experts
Other ideas include using almond milk, adding fresh herbs, or sauteed mushrooms. The goal is to keep the creamy texture while adding your unique touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect green bean casserole needs focus and knowing common mistakes. Troubleshooting can help you steer clear of issues that might ruin your dish’s taste and texture.
Temperature Control Challenges
Temperature is key for a great green bean casserole. Wrong temperatures can mess up your dish. Here are some important temperature tips:
- Avoid overheating, which can make green beans mushy
- Keep the oven at a steady temperature for even cooking
- Use moderate heat to keep ingredients in top shape
Texture Troubleshooting
Texture is vital for your green bean casserole. To avoid texture issues, follow these steps:
- Drain frozen green beans well to avoid water
- Choose French-cut frozen green beans for the best texture
- Add crispy topping in the last 10-15 minutes of baking
Seasoning and Flavor Management
Seasoning is an art in making green bean casserole. Here are some seasoning mistakes to avoid:
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Over-salting | Use low-sodium ingredients and taste before final seasoning |
| Bland flavor | Sauté mushrooms and onions beforehand to boost taste |
| Watery sauce | Use flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce |
“Perfection in cooking is about understanding and preventing common mistakes.” – Culinary Wisdom
By fixing these common mistakes, your green bean casserole will go from good to amazing. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you’ll make a dish that everyone will love.
Make-Ahead and Storage Guidelines
Planning ahead for your Campbell’s green bean casserole can make holiday meal prep easier. You can prepare this classic dish in advance, giving you more time to relax and enjoy quality moments with your family.
Preparation in Advance
When preparing your green bean casserole ahead of time, follow these key steps:
- Prepare the entire casserole except for the crispy onion topping
- Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days before your event
- Add the French’s crispy onions just before baking to maintain their crunch
Storage Recommendations
Proper campbell’s green bean casserole storage is key for quality and safety. After cooking, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
“The key to preserving your casserole’s delicious flavor is careful storage and gentle reheating.” – Culinary Experts
Reheating Tips
Reheating your casserole needs careful attention to avoid drying out or separating the sauce:
- Oven method: Reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes
- Microwave method: Heat individual portions in short intervals
- If the sauce feels too thick, simply stir in a little milk to loosen it up.
Freezing Considerations
While you can freeze a green bean casserole, it’s not recommended. Freezing can cause the creamy sauce to separate. This significantly impacts the texture and flavor of your dish.
Pro tip: If you must freeze, do so before adding the crispy onion topping. Consume within 1 month for best results.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Tips
Turn your green bean side dish into a stunning festive green bean bake. Use these expert presentation tips to make your casserole stand out.
Elegant Garnishing Strategies
Make your dish visually appealing with these garnishing ideas:
- Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color
- Add extra crispy French-fried onions around the dish’s edges
- Crumble bacon bits for a savory garnish
- Dust with paprika for a subtle hint of warmth
Creative Plating Techniques
How you serve your green bean casserole matters. Try these innovative serving approaches:
- Use white ceramic dishes for classic elegance
- Serve individual portions in rustic ramekins
- Create a decorative border with additional crispy onions
- Garnish with fresh herb sprigs for a professional touch
“A beautifully presented dish speaks volumes even before you take the first bite. It sets the stage, inviting you into a story of flavor and creativity”.
Pairing Recommendations
| Main Course | Complementary Side |
|---|---|
| Roast Turkey | Green Bean Casserole |
| Honey Glazed Ham | Green Bean Casserole |
| Grilled Steak | Green Bean Casserole |
With these serving suggestions, your festive green bean bake will be the star of any family gathering. Presentation is an art that turns a simple side dish into a memorable meal.
Pairing Recommendations for Holiday Meals
Creating the perfect thanksgiving menu is all about pairing dishes well. Your green bean casserole will stand out when paired with classic holiday main courses. These pairings make the whole meal better.
When planning your holiday gatherings, think about these great protein matches for your green bean casserole:
- Roast Turkey: The traditional centerpiece of Thanksgiving
- Honey-Glazed Ham: Adds sweet complexity to the meal
- Prime Rib: Creates a luxurious dinner experience
- Roasted Chicken: A lighter protein option
The casserole’s creamy texture and savory flavor make it a great side dish. It goes well with many main courses.
| Main Course | Complementary Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Roast Turkey | Classic, traditional pairing |
| Honey-Glazed Ham | Sweet and savory balance |
| Prime Rib | Rich, robust combination |
To complete your holiday menu, add classic sides like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and roasted seasonal vegetables. These pairings ensure a balanced and memorable meal. It will impress your guests.
“The key to a memorable holiday meal is finding the perfect balance between all your dishes.” – Culinary Expert
Pro tip: With 20 million Thanksgiving dinners featuring green bean casserole each year, you’re on the right path with this Campbell’s recipe!
Troubleshooting Your Casserole
Fixing green bean casserole problems can make your dish go from bad to great. Knowing common issues lets you tackle them with ease.
Texture and moisture are key for a perfect green bean casserole. If your dish doesn’t meet your expectations, making a few tweaks can help.
- Watery Casserole Solutions:
- Reduce liquid ingredients
- Drain green beans thoroughly
- Use less milk in the base
- Dry Casserole Fixes:
- Add small amounts of broth
- Incorporate extra cream of mushroom soup
- Sprinkle additional moisture-rich ingredients
Getting the crispy topping right can be tricky. To avoid burning and get it just right, try these tips:
- Cover dish with foil during initial baking
- Remove foil for final 10-15 minutes
- Position oven rack in middle position
“The key to a flawless casserole lies in the perfect balance of moisture, flavor, and texture.” – Culinary Expert
Seasoning is vital for a flavorful green bean casserole. Try these seasonings to boost the taste:
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh cracked black pepper
| Problem | Quick Fix |
|---|---|
| Soggy Topping | Crisp onions separately, add last 5 minutes |
| Bland Flavor | Add herbs like thyme or rosemary |
| Uneven Heating | Stir midway through baking |
Pro tip: Always taste and adjust seasonings before final baking to ensure a memorable green bean casserole experience.
Expert Tips for Scaling the Recipe
Planning a big family gathering or holiday party means you must prepare a lot of food. Knowing how much to make and what size dish to use is key. This ensures you have enough for everyone.
For a Campbell’s green bean casserole for 12, think about the recipe size and the right dish. Here are some tips from experts:
Family Gathering Portion Planning
- Plan for about 1/2 cup of casserole per person
- Use a 3-quart casserole dish for bigger groups
- Think about a 13×9 inch baking dish for more servings
Party Serving Calculations
For big events, follow these important tips:
- Double the ingredients as needed
- Adjust liquid amounts carefully to keep it right
- Make multiple smaller casseroles instead of one big one
“The secret to a perfect green bean casserole is balancing ingredients and cooking technique.” – Culinary Expert
Scaling up your Campbell’s green bean casserole dish size is important. Make sure everything cooks evenly. Bigger batches might need some tweaks to keep every bite tasty.
Pro Cooking Insights
- Drain canned veggies to avoid a watery mess
- Use fresh ingredients for better flavor
- Preheat oven to 350°F for the best results
- Add crispy fried onions in the last 5 minutes of baking
Tip: For perfect texture, avoid overcrowding the baking dish and maintain even ingredient distribution.
Conclusion
Making the perfect easy Campbell’s casserole recipe is more than just following steps. It’s about embracing a classic holiday comfort food that brings generations together. From Dorcas Reilly’s original 1955 recipe to your kitchen today, it’s a delicious tradition that delights families everywhere.
Your green bean casserole is more than just a side dish. It’s a canvas for your creativity. With simple preparation and versatile ingredients, you can make it your own. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try vegetarian options, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to make.
This classic holiday comfort food’s magic is its simplicity and flexibility. Trust your instincts, use quality ingredients like Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup and French’s Crispy Fried Onions. Each time you make it, you’re not just cooking. You’re creating memories that warm your family’s hearts and fill their bellies.
With these tips and techniques, you can master the Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole. Embrace the tradition, enjoy the process, and relish every delicious bite.
FAQ
What ingredients do I need to make Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole?
You’ll need Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and green beans. Also, French’s crispy fried onions, black pepper, and garlic powder are optional. You can use any brand of crispy onions.
How long does it take to prepare and cook the green bean casserole?
It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Mix the ingredients and bake for 25 minutes without the onions. Then, add the onions and bake for 5 more minutes until golden.
Is it possible to prepare the green bean casserole in advance?
Yes, you can make it up to 2 days in advance without the onions. Store it in the fridge and add the onions before baking. Reheat at low oven heat for 10-15 minutes.
Are there any variations to the classic green bean casserole recipe?
Yes! You can sprinkle in some cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, for an extra boost of flavor. Try crumbled bacon, different soups, or extra seasonings. You can also add other vegetables to make it your own.
How many servings does a standard green bean casserole recipe make?
A standard recipe serves 6-8 people. Plan for about 1/2 cup per person. For more guests, double the recipe or make more casseroles.
What are common mistakes to avoid when making green bean casserole?
Don’t overcook or undercook the casserole. Avoid oversalting and not draining the green beans. Make sure to mix the ingredients well for even flavor and texture.
What are some good side dishes to serve with green bean casserole?
It goes well with turkey, ham, or prime rib. It also pairs with mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and roasted carrots. Brussels sprouts are a great choice too.
Is it possible to create a healthier version of green bean casserole?
Yes, use low-sodium ingredients and fresh green beans. Choose lighter alternatives and control the onions and cream-based soup.
What is the nutritional content of a typical serving of green bean casserole?
A serving has about 231-232 calories. It has 16g fat, 2-3g protein, and 20g carbs. It also has 296-620mg sodium and small amounts of vitamins and minerals.
How do I store and reheat leftover green bean casserole?
Keep it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at low heat for 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions. Freezing may change the sauce’s texture.