Mouthwatering Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a classic comfort dish that brings together crisp green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and a crunchy fried onion topping. It’s the kind of simple, hearty recipe that feels just right for holiday dinners or any cozy get-together. The combination of textures from the tender beans and crispy onions makes it a true crowd-pleaser.
I always love how quick and easy this casserole comes together, especially with Campbell’s mushroom soup doing a lot of the work for me. It saves time without skimping on flavor. Whenever I make it, I like to add a little extra black pepper or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to give it a tiny twist, but it’s delicious even as is. The crispy onions baked on top get golden and addictive every time.
Serving this dish feels like a warm hug from the inside. I often bring it to family dinners because I know it’s one of those recipes people ask for again and again. It pairs so well with turkey, ham, or even just a simple roast chicken dinner. If you haven’t tried this green bean casserole yet, you’re in for a tasty, familiar treat that’s easy to love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans taste best with a little snap, but frozen ones work well too. Just be sure to drain them well after cooking to avoid a watery casserole. I prefer fresh for a brighter texture.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the base that makes the dish creamy and flavorful. If you want a homemade touch, you can swap it with a simple mushroom sauce made from mushrooms, butter, flour, and milk.
French Fried Onions: These crunchy onions are a must-have topping for the classic crisp finish. If you can’t find them, crushed crispy shallots or fried garlic chips can be a fun alternative, but the flavor will slightly change.
Soy Sauce (Optional): Adds depth and a little umami boost, but feel free to skip if you prefer less salt or a milder taste.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunchy Onion Topping?
Getting the fried onions crisp but not burned is key:
- Add about half of the onions into the casserole mixture before baking. This softens some onions and infuses flavor.
- After the casserole has baked and is hot, sprinkle the remaining onions evenly on top.
- Return it to the oven for just 5 minutes at 350°F to crisp the topping without burning it.
- Watch it closely during the last few minutes, as onions can burn quickly once golden.
Following this method gives you a creamy casserole base and a crunchy, golden topping every time, perfectly combining soft and crisp textures.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – I like this size because it fits the casserole perfectly without overflowing.
- Mixing bowl – for blending the soup, milk, and seasonings easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amounts of soup, milk, and onions.
- Fork or whisk – helps combine the ingredients smoothly.
- Baking sheet (optional) – for crisping the fried onions separately if you want extra crunch.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan for a cheesy twist that melts into the casserole.
- Protein: Mix in cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or sautéed mushrooms to add more flavor and texture.
- Spices: Add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika to boost the flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or chopped bell peppers for more color and taste.
Mouthwatering Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups cooked green beans (fresh or frozen, drained)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/3 cups French fried onions, divided
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes for baking. So, in total, plan for about 40 minutes from start to finish, including baking and resting time before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Mix Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, milk, soy sauce (if you’re using it), and black pepper. Stir this well until everything is nicely blended together.
2. Combine With Green Beans and Onions
Add your drained, cooked green beans and 2/3 cup of the French fried onions to the soup mixture. Stir gently so that every bean is coated with the creamy sauce and some onions get mixed in for flavor.
3. Bake the Casserole
Pour the green bean mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Place it in your oven and bake uncovered for about 25 minutes. You’re looking for it to be hot and bubbling.
4. Add the Crunchy Topping and Finish Baking
Carefully take the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup of French fried onions evenly on top. Pop it back into the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the onions turn a lovely golden brown and crisp up.
5. Cool and Serve
Once baked, take the dish out and let it cool just a little so it’s easier to serve. Then enjoy your creamy, crunchy, and oh-so-comforting green bean casserole with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans work great! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make the casserole watery.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready. Add the fried onions on top just before the final 5-minute bake for the best crunch.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the cream of mushroom soup and milk with dairy-free alternatives like coconut or almond milk and a dairy-free mushroom soup to keep it creamy and delicious.