Easy and Delicious Campbell Green Bean Casserole Recipe​ for Every Occasion

Introduction to Campbell Green Bean Casserole

The Campbell green bean casserole recipe​ is a beloved dish, particularly popular around the holidays, that combines tender green beans with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crispy fried onions. This classic recipe is easy to make and offers a comforting side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. The creamy texture of the casserole, combined with the crispy topping, creates a delightful contrast that’s irresistible to many.

Originally created by Campbell’s Soup in the 1950s, this casserole has since become a staple at Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. With just a few simple ingredients, the Campbell green bean casserole recipe​ is quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy holiday meals. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or bringing a dish to share, this casserole is sure to please a crowd.

Essential Ingredients for Campbell Green Bean Casserole

To make a Campbell green bean casserole recipe​, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish. These ingredients are staples in many kitchens and come together in a simple, yet satisfying casserole.

• Green Beans: Fresh or frozen green beans are used for this casserole. You can also use canned green beans if you prefer a quicker option.
• Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup: The soup is the base of the creamy sauce. It adds both flavor and richness to the dish.
• Milk: Milk is combined with the soup to create a smooth and creamy consistency for the sauce.
• Fried Onions: Fried onions are sprinkled on top of the casserole before baking. They provide a crunchy, savory topping that complements the creamy texture of the casserole.
• Seasonings: Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the dish, while garlic powder and onion powder can be added for extra flavor.

These are the core ingredients for the Campbell green bean casserole recipe​. With these simple components, you can create a dish that’s rich, comforting, and sure to impress your guests.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Campbell Green Bean Casserole

Making a Campbell green bean casserole recipe​ is easy and quick. Follow this step-by-step guide to prepare a creamy and delicious casserole that’s perfect for any occasion.

1. Prepare the Green Beans: Start by cooking the green beans. If using fresh or frozen beans, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain them well. If using canned green beans, simply drain and rinse them.
2. Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup with milk. Stir it together over medium heat until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer.
3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked green beans with the mushroom soup mixture. Stir until the beans are well-coated with the creamy sauce. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
4. Top with Fried Onions: Sprinkle the fried onions evenly on top of the casserole. Press them gently into the mixture so they stay in place while baking.
5. Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the onions on top are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve this dish hot as a side to your favorite main courses.

By following these simple steps, you’ll have a creamy, delicious Campbell green bean casserole recipe​ that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Variations of Campbell Green Bean Casserole

While the traditional Campbell green bean casserole recipe​ is always a hit, there are many ways to customize it to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few variations to try that will add new twists to this classic dish.

• Cheesy Green Bean Casserole: Add shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan to the sauce to give the casserole a cheesy, savory flavor. Mix the cheese into the mushroom soup before combining with the beans or sprinkle it on top with the fried onions.
• Bacon Green Bean Casserole: For a savory, smoky twist, add cooked bacon crumbles to the green bean mixture. The bacon enhances the flavor of the casserole and adds a satisfying crunch.
• Vegan Green Bean Casserole: To make a vegan version, use vegan cream of mushroom soup or make your own using cashews or coconut milk. Replace the fried onions with a vegan version or opt for a different crunchy topping like toasted breadcrumbs.
• Spicy Green Bean Casserole: Add chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the casserole for a spicy kick. This version is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their side dishes.
• Garlic Herb Green Bean Casserole: Incorporate fresh garlic, thyme, and rosemary into the mushroom sauce for an herb-infused twist. The herbs will add freshness and aromatic flavor to the casserole.

These variations allow you to tailor the Campbell green bean casserole recipe​ to fit any flavor preference or dietary need. With a few simple adjustments, you can give this classic dish a unique touch that suits your taste.

Serving Suggestions for Campbell Green Bean Casserole

The Campbell green bean casserole recipe​ is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re serving it for a festive holiday or a casual family dinner, this casserole complements almost any meal.

• With Roasted Meats: The rich, creamy texture of green bean casserole works well alongside roasted meats such as chicken, turkey, or beef. The flavors of the casserole balance the savory depth of roasted meats.
• With Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or brussels sprouts offer a light, smoky contrast to the rich green bean casserole. The smokiness of the grilled veggies adds an extra layer of flavor.
• With Mashed Potatoes: Mashed potatoes and green bean casserole are a perfect pair. The creamy mashed potatoes complement the crispy topping of the casserole, making it a comforting meal.
• With Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery dinner rolls or crusty bread serve as a great side to scoop up the creamy casserole. The bread adds texture to the meal and helps absorb any leftover sauce.
• With a Fresh Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can help balance the richness of the casserole. The acidity of the dressing contrasts with the creamy beans and provides a refreshing touch.

These serving suggestions make the Campbell green bean casserole recipe​ even more enjoyable, adding a variety of textures and flavors to your meal.

Storing and Reheating Campbell Green Bean Casserole

Proper storage and reheating are essential for keeping your Campbell green bean casserole recipe​ fresh and delicious after the initial meal. Follow these simple tips to store and reheat your casserole without losing its flavor or texture.

• Storing Leftovers: After serving, allow the casserole to cool to room temperature. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. If you need to store it longer, freezing is an option.
• Freezing Campbell Green Bean Casserole: To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. It will last for up to 1-2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating in the Oven: For best results, reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. Cover the casserole with foil to prevent the topping from burning. For the last 5 minutes, remove the foil to allow the onions to become crispy again.
• Reheating in the Microwave: If you need to reheat quickly, use the microwave. Place individual portions in microwave-safe containers and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating. Cover with a damp towel to retain moisture.

By following these steps, your Campbell green bean casserole recipe​ will taste just as good on the second day as it did when freshly made.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many cans equal 4 cups of green beans?

Typically, one 14.5 oz can of green beans equals about 1.5 cups. Therefore, to get 4 cups of green beans, you would need approximately 3 cans of green beans. However, if you prefer, you can also use fresh or frozen beans, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

How do you keep green bean casserole from being runny?

To prevent your green bean casserole from being runny, be sure to properly drain any canned or frozen green beans before using them. Additionally, using cream of mushroom soup as the base helps thicken the mixture. If necessary, add a little flour or cornstarch to the soup to give the casserole a thicker consistency.

What are the ingredients in a green bean casserole?

The basic ingredients for a green bean casserole are green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, fried onions, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic. Some variations may include shredded cheese or other vegetables, depending on your preference.

Which is better in green bean casserole, canned or frozen?

Both canned and frozen green beans work well in green bean casserole, but frozen beans may offer a fresher texture and slightly better flavor. Canned beans are more convenient, but make sure to drain them properly to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.

Do you cover green bean casserole when you’re baking it?

Yes, it’s best to cover the green bean casserole while baking to prevent the topping from burning and to retain moisture. Remove the cover for the last few minutes of baking to allow the onions to become crispy.

How many cups is a 14.5 oz can of green beans?

A 14.5 oz can of green beans typically contains about 1.5 cups of beans. To get the full equivalent of 4 cups, you would need about three 14.5 oz cans.

Conclusion: Why Campbell Green Bean Casserole is a Holiday Essential

The Campbell green bean casserole recipe​ is a must-have dish for holiday meals and family gatherings. Its rich, creamy texture, combined with the crispy fried onions, makes it a crowd-pleaser that complements a wide variety of main courses. Whether you serve it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual dinner, this casserole always stands out.

Moreover, the simplicity of the recipe, with just a few key ingredients, makes it quick to prepare and easy to customize. By adding your own seasonings or making variations, you can make this dish uniquely yours while keeping the essence of the original recipe intact.

Ultimately, the Campbell green bean casserole recipe​ is a holiday essential that’s comforting, satisfying, and always a hit. Next time you’re preparing for a special occasion, consider adding this classic dish to your menu for a flavorful and memorable meal.