Mouthwatering Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions on top. This simple yet delicious casserole is perfect for any gathering, especially holiday dinners or cozy family meals. The creamy texture and crunchy topping make every bite satisfying and full of flavor.
I love making this casserole when I want something easy but still packed with nostalgia and warmth. Using Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup makes it quick to prepare, and the fried onions on top add that extra special touch of crunch that everyone looks forward to. It’s one of those dishes that always gets asked for again and again at my house.
My favorite way to serve it is straight out of the oven, nice and bubbly, alongside a big roast or turkey. It’s a great side that compliments so many main dishes. Plus, leftover green bean casserole heated up the next day tastes just as great, for those times when you want a little comfort without cooking all over again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans offer the best texture, but canned and frozen both work well. Just make sure to drain canned beans well to avoid a soggy casserole.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This canned soup is the creamy base of the dish. For a homemade twist, make a simple mushroom sauce with sautéed mushrooms, flour, milk, and broth.
French Fried Onions: These crispy onions on top add great texture and flavor. If unavailable, you can make your own by thinly slicing onions and frying them until golden.
Soy Sauce: Optional but adds depth and a savory boost. You can skip or replace it with Worcestershire sauce if preferred.
How Can I Get the Topping Extra Crispy Without Burning It?
Getting the fried onions just right takes attention but is easy once you know the trick. Follow these steps:
- After baking the casserole, add the fried onions on top just before the final bake.
- Bake at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, but start checking at 5 minutes to avoid burning.
- If the onions brown too fast, loosely cover with foil to protect them while crisping.
- For an even crispier top, spread the onions thinly so air circulates.
These tips helped me get perfect crunch every time, balancing golden color without bitterness!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I use a medium bowl for mixing the creamy soup and green beans; it’s just the right size and easy to clean.
- Large spoon or spatula – makes gently stirring the beans and sauce simple and mess-free.
- Casserole dish (1 1/2-quart or similar) – a sturdy dish that distributes heat evenly for baking.
- Oven – to bake and crisp the onions; I keep mine at 350°F for consistent results.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy, especially with the milk and soy sauce.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Mix in cooked crispy bacon or pancetta for extra richness and smoky flavor.
- Add shredded cheese—cheddar or Swiss—stirred in with the beans for a cheesy version.
- Stir in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for deeper earthy flavors.
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or thyme or parsley on top for a fresh, herbal touch.
How to Make Mouthwatering Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) cut green beans, drained (or 4 cups fresh or frozen green beans, cooked and drained)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ⅓ cups French fried onions, divided
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35 minutes to bake, so you can have a warm, delicious green bean casserole ready in just under 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Mixture:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, milk, soy sauce (if you like), and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Then, gently stir in the drained green beans and 2/3 cup of the French fried onions, making sure everything is well coated.
2. Bake the Casserole:
Pour this mixture into a 1 ½-quart casserole dish and spread it evenly. Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbling.
3. Add the Crispy Topping and Finish Baking:
Take the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining fried onions evenly on top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes or until the onions turn golden brown and crunchy. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your classic, creamy, and crispy green bean casserole as a perfect side dish for holidays or cozy family dinners!
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Green Beans Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh or frozen green beans work great. Just make sure to cook and drain them well before mixing with the soup to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Make This Green Bean Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole mixture a day ahead. Keep it covered in the refrigerator, then add the fried onions and bake right before serving for the best crispy topping.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the texture close to fresh.
What Can I Substitute for French Fried Onions?
If you don’t have French fried onions, crispy fried shallots or homemade toasted breadcrumbs with a little butter can be a tasty alternative topping.
