There it was, the unmistakable sound of crunching as my uncle dug into the crispy topping of our family’s beloved Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole. This dish, a classic at Thanksgiving, holds a special place in my heart, and with good reason. It’s a delightful combination of tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and a golden, crispy onion topping that feels like a warm hug on a chilly autumn day. What’s fantastic is that this dish is incredibly simple to prepare, and with options for both the oven and air fryer, it makes for a hassle-free side that won’t hog all the precious oven space during your holiday feast. With its comforting flavors and generous servings, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser—perfect for both large gatherings and cozy dinners alike. Are you ready to uncover the secrets behind this classic dish?
Why is This Casserole a Must-Have?
Simplicity at Its Finest: Just a few ingredients create this classic dish, making it perfect for even the busiest cooks.
Creamy, Flavorful Bliss: The rich mushroom sauce harmonizes beautifully with tender green beans.
Crispy Texture: The golden onion topping adds a crunch that contrasts deliciously with the creamy base.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether using the air fryer or oven, you can enjoy this delightful casserole easily, saving valuable cooking space.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s a nostalgic favorite that’s sure to delight every guest on your holiday table. Pair it with turkey or try it at your next gathering for a guaranteed hit!
Campbells Green Bean Casserole Ingredients
For the Creamy Base
• Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup – Provides that signature creamy base; mushroom is traditional but feel free to experiment!
• Milk – Thins the soup to create a velvety texture; for a lactose-free option, substitute with non-dairy milk.
• Soy Sauce – Adds rich depth and umami flavor; remember to skip extra salt due to the high sodium content in the soup and soy sauce.
For the Vegetables
• Green Beans – The star of the dish! You can use canned, frozen, or fresh; remember to drain canned beans and blanch fresh ones for best results.
For the Topping
• Crispy French Fried Onions – These add that irresistible crunch; divide into two parts for mixing into the casserole and for topping.
For Seasoning
• Black Pepper – Brings a touch of warmth to the dish; adjust to taste for your perfect seasoning blend.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Campbells Green Bean Casserole
Step 1: Preheat Your Cooking Device
Begin by preheating your oven or air fryer to 350°F. This temperature will ensure that your Campbells Green Bean Casserole cooks evenly and achieves that delightful creamy texture. While your appliance warms up, gather your ingredients and a 9×9 casserole dish, ready to create this comforting side dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Dish
Spray the 9×9 casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray, ensuring an even coating. This step is crucial to prevent the casserole from sticking as it bakes or air fries. Preparing the dish in advance will help make cleanup easier, allowing you to focus on the delicious flavors of the Campbells Green Bean Casserole.
Step 3: Prepare the Green Beans
If you’re using fresh green beans, rinse them under cold water, trim the ends, and blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes. This quick blanching helps preserve their bright color and crispness. If using canned green beans, make sure to drain them well. After prepping your beans, set them aside while you mix the creamy base.
Step 4: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and soy sauce. Stir the mixture vigorously until it’s smooth and free of lumps. This creamy base is what makes the Campbells Green Bean Casserole so indulgent and comforting. Take a moment to ensure your ingredients are well blended before adding the vegetables.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the prepared green beans and 2/3 of the crispy French fried onions to the soup mixture. Gently stir to combine everything, ensuring the beans are well coated with the creamy sauce. This mixture is going to become the heart of your casserole, so be careful not to break the beans as you blend.
Step 6: Pour into Casserole Dish
Carefully pour the green bean mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. This ensures even cooking and crispy topping throughout the whole dish. Make sure to wear oven mitts if your dish is warm. Next, it’s time to cook this classic Campbells Green Bean Casserole to perfection.
Step 7: Cook in Air Fryer
If you choose the air fryer method, cook the casserole for 10 minutes at 350°F. After 10 minutes, carefully stir the casserole to ensure even cooking. Top it with the remaining crispy French fried onions and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the onions are golden brown and crunchy.
Step 8: Bake in Oven
For the oven option, place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After that, take a moment to stir the casserole gently. Sprinkle the remaining crispy French fried onions on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the onions are golden brown and crispy, elevating the Campbells Green Bean Casserole to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Make Ahead Options
These Campbells Green Bean Casserole preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their holiday meal planning! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by combining the creamy base with green beans and 2/3 of the crispy onions, then refrigerating it tightly covered to maintain freshness. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to cook, simply sprinkle the remaining onions on top and either air fry or bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s been chilled. Trust me, this casserole will taste just as delicious when prepped ahead!
How to Store and Freeze Campbells Green Bean Casserole
Fridge: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole without the onion topping for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil for optimal protection against freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, approximately 25-30 minutes. If you like, sprinkle fresh crispy onions on top before serving for that delightful crunch!
Avoid Sticking: When freezing, ensure the casserole is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn and preserve its creamy goodness before enjoying your Campbells Green Bean Casserole at a later date.
What to Serve with Classic Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
This delightful casserole comes alive when paired with the right accompaniments, ensuring your Thanksgiving feast is truly memorable.
- Roasted Turkey: The star of the show! Juicy turkey complements the creamy casserole beautifully, creating a classic holiday duo.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky potatoes provide a comforting texture contrast, allowing the casserole’s crunch to shine while soaking up all the delicious gravy.
- Savory Stuffing: A seasoned stuffing adds depth to the meal with its savory herbs, perfectly balancing the casserole’s creamy flavor.
- Sweet Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the casserole, refreshing the palate with each bite.
- Garlic Butter Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are perfect for sopping up any leftover casserole sauce, making every mouthful enjoyable.
- Glazed Carrots: Sweet and vibrant carrots bring a pop of color and added sweetness, elevating the Thanksgiving spread with earthy notes.
- Green Salad: A crisp garden salad adds freshness and balances the heaviness of the casserole, encouraging a lighter bite amid all the comfort foods.
- Apple Pie: For dessert, a slice of warm apple pie enhances the meal’s nostalgia, wrapping up your holiday gathering on a sweet note.
- Red Wine: Pairing with a light red wine can elevate the flavors, enhancing the delicious umami from the casserole while bringing joy to your celebration.
Campbells Green Bean Casserole Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe to create your perfect version of Campbells Green Bean Casserole that will delight your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute regular milk with almond or coconut milk for a lactose-free option that still offers creaminess.
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Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder or freshly minced garlic to the creamy base for an aromatic twist that elevates the flavor.
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Souper Substitutions: Try using cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different texture while maintaining that comforting feel.
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Veggie Additions: Toss in sautéed mushrooms or some fresh spinach to boost the nutrition and add more depth to the casserole’s flavor profile.
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Crunchy Twist: Swap French fried onions for crispy shallots or panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little garlic powder for a fun crunch variation.
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Protein-Packed: Mix in some cooked shredded chicken or turkey for a heartier version that transforms this side dish into a complete meal.
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Spicy Kick: For those who favor heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to give a zingy twist to this classic dish.
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Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary into the mixture before baking for a burst of fresh flavor that brightens the creamy base.
By integrating these variations, your Campbells Green Bean Casserole can be customized for unique taste experiences. If you’re interested in other comforting side dishes, be sure to check out our classic mashed potatoes and homemade stuffing recipes for an unforgettable Thanksgiving!
Expert Tips for Campbells Green Bean Casserole
• Ingredient Adjustments: Ensure you use condensed cream of mushroom soup for the best flavor. While other soups can work, they may change the dish’s classic taste.
• Blanching Fresh Beans: If using fresh green beans, remember to blanch them for just 2 minutes. This keeps their bright color and crispness, enhancing the casserole.
• Layering Toppings: For maximum crunch, divide the crispy French fried onions into two portions—mix some into the casserole and save the rest for topping. This creates that delightful texture contrast!
• Avoid Extra Salt: Watch out for adding extra salt. The soy sauce and soup are already salty enough; taste before adjusting seasoning.
• Storage Tips: To save leftovers, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can even freeze the casserole without the onion topping for up to 3 months!
• Cooking Time Adjustments: If prepping ahead, combine the ingredients and refrigerate. You may need to increase the cooking time to ensure everything is heated through when you’re ready to bake your Campbells Green Bean Casserole.
Campbells Green Bean Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of green beans should I use?
Absolutely! You can use canned, frozen, or fresh green beans for this recipe. If using canned, make sure to drain them well. For fresh beans, blanch them in boiling water for about 2 minutes to keep their vibrant color and crispness before adding them to the casserole.
How should I store leftovers?
Very simply! Leftover Campbells Green Bean Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to keep it fresh and delicious.
Can I freeze Campbells Green Bean Casserole?
Certainly! To freeze, I recommend preparing the casserole without the onion topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake it at 350°F until heated through.
What should I do if my casserole is too watery?
If you find your casserole has excess liquid, don’t worry! You can address this by mixing in a bit of cornstarch dissolved in water into the creamy base before adding it to the green beans. If it’s already cooked, let it bake a little longer, uncovered, to help evaporate some of the moisture.
Can I use non-dairy milk in the recipe?
Absolutely! To make this casserole lactose-free, you can substitute regular milk with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Just ensure that the non-dairy milk is unsweetened to maintain the savory flavor of the dish.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, if you’re making this dish for a gathering, be mindful of potential allergies. The traditional recipe contains soy sauce, which may not be suitable for those with soy allergies. Additionally, if you’re catering to gluten sensitivities, seek gluten-free soy sauce or use a different seasoning altogether. Always check the labels for any store-bought components to ensure they meet dietary needs.
Delicious Campbells Green Bean Casserole for Cozy Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F.
- Spray the 9x9 casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- If using fresh green beans, rinse, trim, and blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes; drain canned beans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and soy sauce, stirring until smooth.
- Add the green beans and 2/3 of the crispy French fried onions to the mixture and gently stir to combine.
- Pour the green bean mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- If using an air fryer, cook for 10 minutes at 350°F, stir, top with remaining onions, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- For the oven, bake for 25 minutes, stir, top with onions, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until crispy.
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