Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole: A Classic Thanksgiving Side Dish

Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole. The name alone evokes images of cozy Thanksgiving gatherings, the aroma of roasted turkey filling the air, and a table laden with delicious side dishes. This iconic casserole, a staple in countless American homes for generations, is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition. Its creamy mushroom soup base, tender green beans, and crunchy fried onions create a symphony of flavors and textures that are both comforting and irresistible. This recipe isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about creating memories, sharing a meal with loved ones, and savoring the simple pleasures of classic American cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this guide will walk you through every step, ensuring your Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a resounding success this year and for many years to come. Get ready to elevate your Thanksgiving feast – or any weeknight dinner – with this timeless classic.

Why You’ll Love This Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole Recipe

There’s a reason Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole has stood the test of time. It’s incredibly versatile, adaptable to various dietary needs and preferences, and unbelievably easy to make. The convenience factor is a major draw. With minimal prep time and readily available ingredients, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or those times when you want a delicious side dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy mushroom soup provides a rich and savory base, perfectly complementing the delicate flavor of the green beans. The crunch of the French fried onions adds a delightful textural contrast, offering a satisfying bite with every spoonful. Beyond its ease and taste, this casserole brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth. It’s a dish that conjures up memories of family gatherings and cherished traditions, making it a perfect addition to any special occasion. The recipe is easily scalable, allowing you to make a smaller portion for a cozy dinner for two or a larger quantity to feed a crowd. Moreover, its simplicity allows for creative experimentation with variations, opening up a world of possibilities for customizing the dish to your personal preferences.

Why You Should Try This Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole Recipe

If you’ve never experienced the joy of a perfectly executed Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole, you’re in for a treat! This recipe is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Its comforting flavors are perfect for any occasion, from Thanksgiving feasts to casual weeknight dinners. The ease of preparation makes it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks. With simple, readily-available ingredients, it’s a dish you can whip up without fuss. Beyond the ease, this casserole offers a fantastic balance of flavors and textures. The creamy mushroom soup base is wonderfully savory, the green beans provide a subtle sweetness, and the crunchy fried onions add a satisfying textural contrast. This recipe provides a chance to connect with culinary traditions and share a comforting, delicious dish with family and friends. It’s a dish that brings people together, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. It’s also a great way to introduce younger cooks to the joy of simple cooking, teaching them valuable skills in the kitchen while creating delicious food. Try it and discover why it’s become a holiday classic.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

This seemingly simple casserole relies on quality ingredients to achieve the best results. Let’s explore the components and the tools that will make this recipe a breeze:

• Condensed Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup (10.75 ounces): The heart of the casserole, this provides the creamy, savory base. Look for a can that’s not dented or bulging.
• Milk (1/2 cup): Use whole milk for extra richness, but 2% or skim milk works too. The milk thins the soup and adds a smooth texture.
• Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Freshly ground black pepper is always best, but pre-ground works in a pinch. This adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor.
• French Fried Onions (1 ounce can, divided): These crispy onions add the signature crunch. Reserve some for topping before baking for extra crunch.
• Green Beans (15 ounces can, drained): Choose a high-quality brand of canned green beans. Draining well is crucial to prevent a watery casserole.
• Optional Ingredients: Consider adding fresh mushrooms (sliced) for an enhanced mushroom flavor, or a dash of garlic powder or onion powder for extra aromatic depth.

Recommended Utensils:

• 9×13 inch Baking Dish: This is the standard size for this casserole, providing ample space and even cooking.
• Can Opener: A must-have for opening the cans of soup, green beans, and French fried onions.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for achieving the perfect consistency.
• Whisk: Use a whisk to thoroughly combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture.
• Spatula or Spoon: Use a spatula or spoon to gently stir the ingredients in the baking dish and ensure even distribution.
• Oven Mitts or Pot Holders: Essential for safely removing the hot casserole from the oven.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly and the topping gets perfectly browned.
2. Drain the green beans thoroughly. This step is crucial! Excess liquid will make your casserole watery. You can even pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Combine the soup and milk. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup and milk until completely smooth and creamy. **This is important for a consistent texture.**
4. Season the mixture. Stir in the black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away.
5. Combine the green beans and soup mixture. Gently fold the drained green beans into the creamy soup mixture. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Pour the mixture into the baking dish. Spread it evenly in the 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with half of the French fried onions. Sprinkle half of the can of French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
9. Add the remaining French fried onions. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle the remaining French fried onions over the top.
10. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes. This allows the remaining onions to crisp up and get golden brown. **This is the key to that perfect crunchy topping.**
11. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Tips and Variations for Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

While the classic recipe is undeniably delicious, there’s always room for personalization. Here are some tips and variations to elevate your Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole:

• Use fresh green beans: For a more gourmet touch, try using fresh green beans. Blanch them briefly before adding them to the casserole.
• Add mushrooms: Enhance the mushroom flavor by adding 8 ounces of sliced fresh mushrooms to the soup mixture.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche for extra creaminess.
• Gluten-free option: Ensure your French fried onions are certified gluten-free. Many brands offer this option.
• Vegan option: Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a vegan cream of mushroom soup alternative. Many brands now offer vegan options.
• Avoid overbaking: Overbaking will dry out the casserole and burn the onions. Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes of baking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re making a larger batch, consider using a larger baking dish to ensure even cooking.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

While not a health food powerhouse, Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole offers some nutritional benefits. A single serving (approximately 1 cup) contains approximately:

• Calories: Around 250-300 (depending on ingredients and variations)
• Protein: Around 5-7 grams
• Fat: Around 15-20 grams (primarily from the cream of mushroom soup and fried onions)
• Carbohydrates: Around 25-30 grams

Green beans are an excellent source of vitamins K and C, and they provide fiber. Mushrooms offer several B vitamins and are a good source of selenium. However, the high fat content from the cream of mushroom soup and fried onions should be considered. This recipe is best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of a balanced diet. Consider adjusting the recipe to reduce the fat content by using low-fat milk and reducing the amount of fried onions.

FAQs

Conclusion: Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole – A Timeless Classic

Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole isn’t just a recipe; it’s a nostalgic comfort food that bridges generations. Its ease of preparation, delicious flavors, and customizable nature make it a perfect dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re sticking to the classic recipe or adding your creative touch, the outcome is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to create a culinary masterpiece that will warm hearts and tantalize taste buds. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below! And for more delicious recipes, check out our other articles on Noeli’s Recipes Blog, like this delicious recipe for berenjenas con miel!

We hope you enjoyed this detailed guide to making the perfect Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole. Share your photos on Pinterest! Check out our Pinterest board for more inspiration! Happy cooking!