Mouthwatering Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a classic side dish that brings together tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and a crunchy layer of fried onions on top. It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for any family gathering or holiday meal.
I love how easy it is to make this casserole – just a few ingredients, and it turns out so delicious every time. Using Campbell’s mushroom soup makes the sauce nice and creamy, and the crispy onions add that perfect bit of texture that everyone loves. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
When I serve this casserole, I like to bake it until it’s bubbling and golden on top, then let it cool just a little before digging in. It’s always a hit around the table, and I think part of the magic is how it pairs well with so many main dishes like turkey, ham, or roast chicken. It’s a simple dish that somehow makes every meal feel special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans add a crisp texture, but canned or frozen work well too. If using canned, drain them well to avoid extra moisture in your casserole.
Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the creamy base that brings the dish together. For a homemade touch, you can make your own mushroom sauce or use cream of chicken soup as a substitute.
French Fried Onions: These give your casserole that signature crunch. If you’re avoiding fried foods, try baking thinly sliced onions until crispy or use crispy shallots instead.
Milk: Regular whole milk works best for creaminess, but you can use any milk or milk alternative like almond or oat milk. Just pick unsweetened varieties.
Cheddar Cheese (optional): Adding cheese makes it richer and more flavorful. Sharp cheddar is my favorite, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella are also tasty alternatives.
How Do You Get the Crispiest Topping on Green Bean Casserole?
The crunchy onion topping is what makes this dish special, but getting it perfectly crispy can be tricky. Here’s what helps me:
- Reserve part of the fried onions to add after the casserole is mostly baked. This stops them from getting soggy.
- Sprinkle the onions evenly on top to ensure every bite has that crunch.
- Bake the casserole uncovered for the last 5-10 minutes so the onions get golden and crisp but don’t burn.
- If your onions start browning too fast, lower the oven temperature slightly and keep a close eye on them.
By following these steps, you’ll get a crunchy, golden topping every time that contrasts beautifully with the creamy green beans below.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – I like using a big bowl so I can easily stir all the ingredients together without spilling.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – a standard size that fits everything nicely and bakes evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise measurement of ingredients, especially the milk and French fried onions.
- Spatula or mixing spoon – helps you mix the ingredients thoroughly and scrape the bowl easily.
- Oven – of course, to bake your casserole and get that bubbly, golden top.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap the shredded cheddar for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different cheesy flavor.
- Add cooked bacon bits or chopped ham for extra smoky, savory bites.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for deeper flavor.
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or parsley stirred into the mixture before baking for a fresh, aromatic touch.
Mouthwatering Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked green beans (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for added depth)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions (divided)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes to bake, including the final topping crisp-up. In total, you’ll spend around 40-45 minutes from start to finish to enjoy this creamy and crunchy casserole.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Mix the Base:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, stir together the Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, milk, soy sauce (if you want a little extra flavor), and black pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy.
2. Add Green Beans and Onions:
Next, add the cooked green beans and 2/3 cup of the French fried onions into the creamy mixture. If you’re using cheddar cheese, stir it in now. Mix everything until the green beans are well coated with the sauce.
3. Bake the Casserole:
Pour the mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until it’s hot and bubbly.
4. Add Crunchy Topping and Finish Baking:
Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining French fried onions evenly over the top. Then, bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the onions turn golden brown and crispy.
5. Cool and Serve:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors settle. Enjoy your classic, creamy, and crunchy green bean casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh or Canned?
Yes, frozen green beans work great! Just thaw and drain them well before mixing into the casserole to avoid extra liquid that can make it soupy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the creamy texture without sogginess.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it right before serving. Add the crispy onion topping just before the final bake to keep it crunchy.
What Can I Substitute for French Fried Onions?
If you don’t have French fried onions, try crispy fried shallots, toasted breadcrumbs, or crushed crispy tortilla chips for a similar crunch and flavor.