5 Simple Steps to Make the Perfect Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole for the Holidays

If there’s one dish that defines the holiday season in America, it’s Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole. This classic recipe, crafted in 1955 by the Campbell Soup Company, combines tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions. Known for its simplicity and comforting taste, Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is the ultimate holiday side dish that brings family and friends together.

This recipe is ideal for beginner and seasoned cooks alike, thanks to its minimal ingredients and straightforward cooking method. Whether you’re looking for a quick Thanksgiving side or a new way to enjoy green beans, this article walks you through each step in crafting the perfect casserole. We’ll cover variations, storage tips, and FAQs to make your casserole a success!

Why Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a Holiday Favorite

Since its inception, Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole has been a go-to for holiday meals, loved for its creamy texture and crunchy onion topping. Using a few pantry staples—Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup, green beans, and crispy fried onions—this recipe balances flavors and textures beautifully. The soft beans, creamy sauce, and crispy onion topping create a side dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

Originally designed to be simple, quick, and affordable, this casserole is ideal for busy cooks who want to create a crowd-pleasing dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Today, this holiday classic is a beloved side for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and beyond.

Ingredients and Substitutions for Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

Here are the core ingredients needed for the classic version of Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole:

Ingredient Tips and Substitutions

1. Green Beans: Choose fresh, frozen, or canned green beans. Fresh beans offer a crisp texture, while canned beans provide a softer consistency. If using fresh beans, blanch them for 3–4 minutes before adding them to the mixture.
2. Dairy-Free Options: Substitute milk with almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
3. Soy Sauce Alternatives: Worcestershire sauce works well as a substitute, offering a similar savory depth.
4. French Fried Onions: For a gluten-free casserole, use gluten-free fried onions or gluten-free panko crumbs for a crunchy topping.

Using Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup as the base of this casserole provides a rich, savory flavor that elevates the dish. If you’re cooking for guests with dietary restrictions, substitutions like plant-based milk or gluten-free ingredients can help cater to different preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

Making this casserole is as easy as mixing, baking, and topping. Follow these simple steps for a golden, crispy onion topping and creamy filling.

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Mixture

• In a large bowl, combine Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper.
• Add green beans and half of the fried onions, stirring until well coated.

3. Bake the Casserole

• Transfer the mixture to a 3-quart casserole dish. Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly.

4. Add the Topping

• Remove the casserole from the oven and top with the remaining fried onions. Bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, until the onions are golden and crispy.

5. Serve Hot

• Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm, as the creamy and crispy combination is at its best this way.

Cooking Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Though Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is straightforward, keeping these tips in mind ensures it turns out perfect every time:

1. Avoiding a Watery Casserole: Drain canned or frozen green beans thoroughly to avoid extra liquid.
2. Keeping the Onions Crispy: Only add fried onions in the last 5–10 minutes of baking to maintain their crunch.
3. Blanching Fresh Beans: If fresh green beans are used, blanch them in boiling water, then plunge them into an ice bath to preserve color and texture.
4. Enhancing Creaminess: Substitute half-and-half or heavy cream for a richer texture if desired.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

While the classic Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is hard to beat, adding a twist can make it unique. Here are some ideas to customize your casserole to suit different tastes and diets.

Cheese Lovers’ Twist

• Mix 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or gouda into the mushroom soup mixture for a cheesy flavor boost.

Gluten-Free Option

• Substitute the fried onions with gluten-free panko crumbs or gluten-free crispy onions, allowing gluten-sensitive guests to enjoy this holiday treat.

Vegan Adaptation

• Substitute plant-based milk and vegan cream of mushroom soup. You can skip the fried onions or use vegan-friendly alternatives to make this casserole completely vegan.

Spicy Kick

• Add a few dashes of hot sauce, or sprinkle in diced jalapeños, to add a spicy twist to the traditional recipe.

Bacon Lover’s Edition

• Sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the casserole before serving to give it a savory, smoky flavor.

For more inspiration on ways to adapt your casserole, check out Campbell’s recipe variations and tips. This will give you additional ideas on how to make the classic green bean casserole on your own.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Instructions

Green bean casserole is perfect for make-ahead meal planning, and storing it properly ensures you’ll get to enjoy it even after the big feast is over.

Storage

• Refrigerate: Place leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to serve it the next day, make it ahead without the fried onions and add them just before reheating.
• Freeze: To freeze the casserole, omit the fried onion topping and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When reheating, simply add the fried onions for the final baking phase.

Reheating

• Oven: For the best texture, reheat the casserole in a preheated 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes.
• Microwave: For individual servings, microwave on medium power in 1-minute increments until hot.

FAQs About Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

Is it better to use fresh, canned, or frozen green beans?

Fresh green beans provide a crisp texture, but canned and frozen green beans work well if you’re in a hurry. Just drain them well to prevent a watery casserole.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

Yes, substituting regular milk with almond, soy, or oat milk makes this recipe dairy-free. Pair it with a dairy-free mushroom soup for best results.

Should I cover the casserole while baking?

Baking uncovered keeps the fried onions crispy. If covered, they might become soggy, which can detract from the texture.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, omitting the fried onions until just before baking for the best texture. Cover and refrigerate it, then add the fried onions before baking.

Serving Suggestions for Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

Pairing your green bean casserole with other classic holiday dishes creates a balanced meal full of comforting flavors:

• Roasted Turkey: This casserole pairs wonderfully with roast turkey, making it a must-have for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Homemade Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a nice balance to the casserole’s crispy topping.
• Cranberry Sauce: The tart flavor of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the casserole.

Make It a Tradition

The holidays just wouldn’t be the same without Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole. Its creamy layers, savory green beans, and golden onion topping make it an iconic dish for festive gatherings. Plus, it’s so easy to customize—whether you’re adding cheese, going gluten-free, or opting for a dairy-free version, there’s a version for everyone. So this holiday season, let Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole shine at your table alongside other favorites like Stuffed Green Peppers and cornbread stuffing.

With its effortless preparation and endless flavor combinations, it’s no wonder this casserole has earned a spot on holiday tables across the country.