Mouthwatering Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions on top. It’s the kind of side that feels warm and homey, perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts.
I love making this casserole because it’s so easy to throw together, yet it always feels special. The creaminess of the mushroom soup blends perfectly with the green beans, and those crunchy fried onions add a fun texture that everyone looks forward to. I usually double the onions on top because I just can’t resist that crispy, golden crunch.
My favorite way to serve it is alongside turkey or roast chicken, but honestly, it’s delicious anytime. It reminds me of cozy family gatherings, where everyone’s sharing stories and passing around plates full of comforting food. If you’re looking for a simple dish that feels both nostalgic and satisfying, this green bean casserole is a great pick.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Canned green beans are convenient and work well here. If you prefer fresh, blanch them briefly so they stay tender-crisp. Frozen green beans can also be a good option—just thaw and drain them well.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Campbell’s is the classic choice for this recipe and gives it its signature flavor. For a homemade twist, you can make your own mushroom sauce using fresh mushrooms, butter, flour, and broth.
Milk: Regular milk makes the sauce smooth and creamy. You can substitute with any plant-based milk like almond or oat, just pick an unsweetened, neutral-flavored version.
French Fried Onions: These bring the perfect crunch on top. If you can’t find them, crispy fried shallots or homemade crispy onions will work well as a substitute.
How Do I Get That Perfectly Crispy Onion Topping?
The key is to add the crunchy onions twice: first mixed in the casserole, and then sprinkled on top at the end. This keeps some onions soft for flavor and others crispy for texture.
- Bake the casserole without the onions on top first to let everything get hot and bubbly.
- Add the remaining fried onions as a topping and bake a few more minutes until golden brown.
- Watch closely during this second bake, as the onions can burn quickly if left too long.
This two-step method is the secret to that perfect mix of creamy and crunchy that makes green bean casserole so irresistible!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 1 large mixing bowl – I use it to combine all the ingredients easily and keep everything together.
- Measuring cups and spoons – these help you get the right amounts for each ingredient, making sure the casserole turns out just right.
- 1 1/2-quart baking dish – the perfect size for baking the casserole evenly without spilling, and it’s easy to serve from.
- Spatula or spoon – I like a spatula to gently fold the ingredients and help spread everything evenly.
- Oven – of course, for baking until hot, bubbly, and the onions are crispy gold.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese: Mix in shredded Parmesan or cheddar for a richer flavor. I love the extra cheesy twist for a more indulgent side.
- Additional Veggies: Stir in sautéed mushrooms or chopped caramelized onions for extra depth and sweetness.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked bacon bits or shredded cooked chicken to make it more filling.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a little heat that complements the creamy flavor.
Mouthwatering Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) cut green beans, drained (or 4 cups fresh green beans, blanched)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup
- ¾ cup milk
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 ⅓ cups French fried onions, divided
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes to bake. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing the ingredients, then let the oven do its magic while you wait for that creamy, crispy casserole to come together.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Mix Ingredients:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and soy sauce if you’re using it. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well blended.
2. Add Green Beans and Onions:
Add the drained green beans into your bowl and mix in two-thirds of the French fried onions. Stir gently to coat the beans evenly with your creamy mushroom mixture.
3. Bake the Casserole:
Pour the mixture evenly into a 1½-quart casserole dish. Place it uncovered in your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s hot and bubbling around the edges.
4. Add the Crispy Onion Topping:
Take the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Let your casserole cool for a few minutes—it sets up nicely and is easier to serve. Then dig in and enjoy that classic creamy, crunchy goodness that makes this dish a family favorite!
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Green Beans Instead of Canned?
Yes! If using fresh green beans, blanch them briefly in boiling water until tender-crisp, then drain well. For frozen green beans, thaw completely and drain any excess water before using to avoid a watery casserole.
Can I Make This Green Bean Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, add the topping onions and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the texture and creaminess intact.
Can I Substitute the French Fried Onions?
Yes, crispy fried shallots or homemade crunchy onion toppings work well too. Just make sure they’re crisp so you keep that signature crunch on top of the casserole.
