Few dishes define classic American comfort food quite like the iconic Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole. With tender green beans enveloped in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce and topped with golden, crispy fried onions, this casserole is the ultimate holiday side dish and a favorite for weeknight dinners alike. Its combination of textures—the soft, flavorful green beans with the crunchy topping—makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for easy dinner recipes, budget-friendly meals, or simple family recipes, this dish brings nostalgia and deliciousness to every table.
This casserole is quick, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. Using Campbell’s condensed cream of mushroom soup ensures a classic, tried-and-true taste that has stood the test of time, while a splash of soy sauce adds subtle umami depth that elevates the dish beyond ordinary green bean casseroles. Whether you’re preparing a festive holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe fits seamlessly into healthy cooking at home routines and quick weeknight recipes, thanks to its ease and minimal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Quick and Easy Prep – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for easy dinner for beginners.
• Classic Comfort Food – A nostalgic dish that pleases kids and adults alike, ideal for family comfort food.
• Versatile Ingredients – Works with fresh, frozen, or canned green beans for budget-friendly recipes.
• Perfect Holiday Side – A must-have on Thanksgiving or Christmas tables, enhancing any feast.
• Crispy and Creamy Contrast – The combination of creamy sauce and crunchy fried onions is unbeatable for meal prep recipes or entertaining.
• Air Fryer Friendly – Can be adapted for air fryer cooking, making cleanup faster and simpler.
Ingredient Breakdown
Green Beans (4 cups) – Fresh, frozen, or canned; provide the bright, tender texture essential to this classic dish. Blanching fresh beans ensures the perfect bite. A staple in healthy ingredients and family recipes.
Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can) – The base of the creamy sauce that gives the casserole its signature flavor. Using this brand guarantees the authentic taste of classic green bean casserole recipes.
Milk (½ cup) – Adds creaminess and helps create a luscious sauce that binds the ingredients together. Whole milk is preferred for richness.
Soy Sauce (1 tsp) – Enhances umami flavor without overpowering, adding depth to the creamy mushroom base. A smart easy substitution for recipes to boost flavor naturally.
Ground Black Pepper (¼ tsp) – Provides gentle seasoning to balance the richness of the sauce.
Crispy Fried Onions (1 1/3 cups) – French’s brand is traditional; adds the iconic crunchy topping that defines this casserole. Dividing the onions between the filling and topping ensures optimal crispiness.
Pro Tips
• Prep Beans Properly – Fresh beans should be trimmed and blanched, frozen beans fully thawed, and canned beans drained well. This ensures even cooking and prevents sogginess—a top healthy cooking tip.
• Divide Your Onions – Reserve a portion of fried onions for topping to maintain that iconic crispy finish.
• Gentle Folding – Incorporate beans and fried onions carefully to keep textures intact, which is crucial for easy meal prep hacks.
• Adjust Baking Time – Use an air fryer for faster cooking (10–12 minutes) without sacrificing flavor.
• Serve Hot – Serve immediately after the final bake to preserve the contrast between creamy filling and crispy topping, a must-know best kitchen trick for home cooks.
Ingredient Swaps or Variations
• Low-Sodium Option – Use low-sodium soup and soy sauce to reduce salt content for a healthy recipe alternative.
• Dairy-Free Version – Replace milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free condensed soup substitute for gluten-free recipes.
• Cheesy Twist – Mix in ½ cup shredded cheddar for extra richness and a melty, gooey texture for budget-friendly substitutions.
• Herb-Infused Sauce – Add thyme, rosemary, or garlic powder to enhance flavor complexity for low-carb dinner ideas.
• Vegetable Mix-Up – Add mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers for a more colorful, nutrient-packed casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs perfectly with roasted turkey, baked ham, or grilled chicken for a complete healthy weeknight meal or festive holiday dinner recipe. Serve alongside mashed potatoes, stuffing, or roasted root vegetables for a traditional Thanksgiving or Christmas spread. Leftover casserole can also top baked potatoes or pasta, making it a versatile family comfort food addition. For parties, consider serving in mini ramekins with a sprinkling of extra fried onions as easy party food ideas.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
• Prep in Advance – Combine the green beans and sauce a day ahead, then store in the fridge; add fried onions just before baking.
• Leftover Storage – Store any extra casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing Option – Assemble the casserole without topping, freeze in a freezer-safe dish, and bake directly from frozen for best freezer meals.
• Reheating – Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through; top with fresh fried onions for crispiness.
• Meal Prep Ideas – Portion into small containers for ready-to-go family meal prep or side dish servings throughout the week.
Cultural or Historical Notes
Green bean casserole was first created in the 1950s by Campbell’s Soup Company as a quick, convenient way to enjoy green beans. Its popularity soared because of its simplicity and comforting flavor. Today, it is a staple on American comfort food tables during Thanksgiving and Christmas, often evoking nostalgic memories of family gatherings. While the classic recipe remains beloved, modern adaptations now include air fryer versions, dairy-free substitutes, and additional vegetables, making it perfect for traditional family meals with contemporary twists.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, just thaw completely and drain excess water before combining with the sauce to prevent sogginess.
How do I keep the onions crispy?
Reserve a portion of fried onions for the topping and add them only in the final 5 minutes of baking.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
For a lower-sodium option, use tamari or liquid aminos. You can also omit it entirely; the casserole will still be flavorful.
Can I make it in an air fryer?
Yes, bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, then add the topping and bake an additional 2–3 minutes.
Irresistible Campbells Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- If using frozen green beans, thaw and drain. For fresh, trim and cut into 2-inch pieces and blanch briefly. Canned beans should be drained well.
- Preheat oven or air fryer to 350°F. Measure and divide the fried onions: 2/3 cup for mixing and 1/3 cup reserved for topping.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and soy sauce until smooth.
- Add the green beans, 2/3 cup fried onions, and black pepper. Gently fold until evenly combined.
- Transfer mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish and bake for 25 minutes (or 10 minutes in an air fryer) until bubbling around the edges.
- Stir gently, then top with the reserved fried onions. Bake an additional 5 minutes (2 minutes in an air fryer) until the topping is golden and crisp.
