The Ultimate Guide to Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

What is Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole?

Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a simple yet flavorful dish made with three core ingredients: green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and French’s fried onions. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Just mix the ingredients together, bake for 30 minutes, and you’re ready to serve! It’s easy, quick, and incredibly comforting—qualities that make it a go-to choice for busy holiday dinners.

For a detailed step-by-step recipe, check out the Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole Recipe on Allrecipes. This dish has been a favorite for families for decades, and it’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a no-fuss, delicious side.

The casserole can also be modified to suit dietary preferences. Whether you’re using fresh green beans or canned green beans, you can create the perfect base for this dish. If you prefer a healthier version, consider using reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup and skipping the fried onions, or switching to vegan-friendly ingredients for a plant-based twist. The versatility of this casserole makes it a great option for everyone, from traditionalists to those with specific dietary needs.

The History of Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

The origins of Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole trace back to 1955, when it was first introduced by Dorothy McGuire, a home economist for Campbell’s. The dish was born from McGuire’s desire to create a simple yet flavorful recipe using the ingredients that were commonly available at the time. Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup was a pantry staple, and McGuire’s vision was to pair it with green beans and a crispy topping to create an easy, savory casserole.

The casserole’s success skyrocketed due to Campbell’s innovative marketing. The company published the recipe on the back of their soup cans, making it easy for families to recreate the dish at home. This move played a pivotal role in making Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole a household name and an essential part of American holiday traditions.

Over the years, Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole has remained largely unchanged, although modern variations have emerged, such as those that add cheese, bacon, or even substitute the classic fried onions with more health-conscious alternatives. Today, it’s not just a holiday favorite—it’s a dish that brings nostalgia and warmth to any table.

If you want to dive deeper into Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole history, Cook with Campbell’s offers insights into the casserole’s enduring popularity.

Why Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a Holiday Favorite

There are many reasons why this casserole has earned its place as a holiday favorite. Here are just a few:

• Tradition: For over six decades, families have been serving Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole as a holiday tradition. The simplicity and ease of preparation have made it a dish that people return to year after year.
• Simplicity: With only a few ingredients, it’s easy to make, even for those who aren’t seasoned chefs. In a time when holiday meals can get complicated, Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole offers a no-fuss solution.
• Versatility: Whether you’re preparing it for a large family gathering or a quiet dinner, this dish can easily be scaled to fit any number of guests. Whether you’re hosting a small dinner or preparing a feast, Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole can be adjusted to meet your needs.

While the recipe has remained largely unchanged, families often tweak it to match their own tastes. Some add extra seasonings, while others may top it with cheese. The flexibility of the dish allows people to make it their own, and it’s this adaptability that has contributed to its enduring popularity.

How to Make Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

Making Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is incredibly easy, and it takes just 10 minutes of prep time. Here’s the step-by-step guide to preparing it:

Ingredients:

• 2 cans of Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup (or any preferred variant)
• 2 cans of cut green beans (or fresh/frozen if preferred)
• 1 cup of milk
• 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
• 1 can of French’s fried onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the soup, milk, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in the green beans until fully coated.
4. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish (a 9×13-inch casserole dish works best).
5. Top with half of the fried onions and bake for 25 minutes.
6. After 25 minutes, remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top.
7. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the onions are golden brown.

Voila! Your Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is ready to serve. For more detailed instructions, visit Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole Recipe on Cook with Campbell’s. The ease of preparation and delicious taste make this casserole the perfect addition to any meal, especially during the busy holiday season.

Common Variations and Tips for Customizing

While the traditional Creamy green bean casserole is delicious on its own, there are numerous ways to personalize it to suit your tastes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Add Cheese: For a creamy, cheesy twist, mix shredded cheddar cheese into the soup mixture or sprinkle it on top before baking. For an extra flavor boost, try adding Parmesan cheese for a tangy edge.
• Make it Lighter: Use light cream of mushroom soup and opt for a lower-fat milk to reduce calories. You can also skip the fried onions or replace them with a crispy, healthier topping like crushed almonds or panko breadcrumbs.
• Vegan-Friendly: Swap out the cream of mushroom soup for a plant-based version, and use vegan fried onions for a completely vegan casserole. You can also add more vegetables like sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
• Extra Flavor: Add minced garlic, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even crispy bacon for added flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating a dash of hot sauce for some extra heat.

These variations allow you to put your own spin on the classic recipe, making it possible to tailor it to your taste and dietary needs.

Nutritional Information of Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

While Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is delicious, it’s important to keep track of its nutritional content. Here’s a breakdown of the average serving:

• Calories: 100-120 per serving
• Fat: 7g
• Carbs: 12g
• Protein: 2g

To make the dish a bit healthier, you can use reduced-sodium soup, fresh green beans instead of canned, and top it with fewer fried onions. Additionally, using low-fat milk will also help cut down on the calorie count. If you’re looking for a lighter version but still want the richness of the casserole, try adding extra vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition without compromising flavor.

How to Serve and Pair Creamy green bean casserole

Creamy green bean casserole pairs wonderfully with many main dishes. Here are some ideas:

• Turkey: A classic pairing for Thanksgiving dinner. The creamy casserole complements the savory turkey perfectly.
• Ham: Another holiday favorite that complements the casserole’s creamy texture. The salty flavor of ham pairs beautifully with the mildness of the green beans.
• Roast Beef: For a comforting Sunday dinner, Creamy green bean casserole works as the perfect side to a juicy roast beef.

For drinks, you can serve a light white wine like Chardonnay, or opt for a non-alcoholic beverage like iced tea or sparkling water. Additionally, a light salad or some fresh bread would pair nicely with the casserole, adding balance to the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long can I keep leftover Creamy green bean casserole?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 2-3 minutes. The casserole is also freezer-friendly, so you can freeze it for up to 2 months.

Can I make Creamy green bean Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Assemble the casserole, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add the fried onions and bake as directed.