Campbells Green Bean Casserole (Thanksgiving Classic)

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the Campbells Green Bean Casserole (Thanksgiving Classic) — that crispy, creamy, and utterly nostalgic dish that brings families together at the holiday table. The savory combination of tender green beans, smooth cream of mushroom soup, and golden fried onions creates a comforting symphony of textures and flavors. Loved for its simplicity and warmth, this casserole has graced Thanksgiving feasts for generations. You’ll learn how to make this timeless dish from scratch, with expert tips for rich flavor, perfect texture, and that signature golden crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Campbells Green Bean Casserole is the ultimate comfort side dish. It’s creamy, crunchy, and filled with savory goodness that pairs beautifully with turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. The contrast between the silky mushroom sauce and the crispy fried onion topping is what makes this dish a classic favorite. Not only is it irresistibly delicious, but it’s also easy to make—ready in about 35 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy family dinner, this dish delivers consistency and flavor with little effort. Plus, it can be prepared ahead of time, making it stress-free for busy cooks. Every bite brings that nostalgic taste of holiday tradition, just the way Campbell’s intended.

Ingredients

To recreate the Campbells Green Bean Casserole (Thanksgiving Classic), here’s what you’ll need:

  • 4 cups (about 900 g) fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces (or use two 14.5 oz cans, drained)

  • 1 can (10.5 oz / 298 g) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup

  • ¾ cup (180 ml) milk

  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce (adds depth and umami)

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 ⅓ cups (about 90 g) French fried onions, divided

  • Optional: ¼ cup (30 g) shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist

Use high-quality green beans and real Campbell’s soup for that authentic flavor profile. The crispy fried onions add texture and saltiness that perfectly complement the creamy sauce.

Pro Tips

  1. Use fresh or lightly blanched beans: For the best texture, blanch fresh green beans for 3-4 minutes before baking. This keeps them tender-crisp and intensifies their color.

  2. Don’t overmix the topping: Add half the fried onions into the mixture and the rest on top right before baking. This ensures a contrast between soft, savory layers and crunchy bites.

  3. Customize the creaminess: If you like a richer casserole, stir in a spoonful of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream. It’ll add luxurious depth without overpowering the traditional flavor.

These techniques help balance creaminess with crispiness and guarantee that your Campbells Green Bean Casserole tastes just like the classic, maybe even better!

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray. If you’re using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth. The sauce should be rich yet pourable.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Add the cooked or canned green beans and ⅔ cup (half) of the fried onions to the sauce. Stir gently to coat everything evenly, being careful not to crush the onions completely.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly around the edges.

Step 5: Add the Crispy Topping
Remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle the remaining fried onions evenly over the top, and return it to bake for another 5 minutes. The onions should turn golden brown and crisp.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve warm and watch it disappear fast!

Variations

If you want to switch things up, try these variations:

  • Cheesy Green Bean Casserole: Mix in ½ cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan for a more indulgent, melty version.

  • Bacon Lovers’ Twist: Add crumbled cooked bacon between the layers before baking.

  • Vegan Adaptation: Substitute cream of mushroom soup with a plant-based alternative and use almond milk and vegan crispy onions.

These variations keep the dish exciting while preserving the beloved essence of the original Campbells Green Bean Casserole (Thanksgiving Classic).

Storage/Serving

Store any leftover Campbells Green Bean Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes to restore its crisp topping. Avoid microwaving for long—it softens the fried onions.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair it with roasted turkey or ham for a traditional Thanksgiving plate.

  • Serve alongside mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce for a balanced meal.

  • Sprinkle with crispy bacon bits right before serving for an extra savory crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I make Campbells Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it without the fried onion topping, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Add the topping and bake before serving.

2. Can I freeze this casserole?
You can freeze it (minus the topping) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and bake with fresh crispy onions.

3. How can I make it extra creamy?
Mix in ¼ cup of sour cream or cream cheese for a richer texture.

4. What if I don’t have French fried onions?
Crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even crispy shallots make great substitutes.

5. Can I use canned mushrooms?
Absolutely. Add them directly to the sauce for more umami flavor.

Conclusion

The Campbells Green Bean Casserole (Thanksgiving Classic) remains a timeless favorite because it’s simple, elegant, and full of flavor. Whether you’re introducing it to a new generation or perfecting it for the hundredth time, this dish captures the heart of what makes Thanksgiving special—comfort, tradition, and a little bit of crunch in every bite.

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