Campbells Green Bean Casserole is that warm, creamy classic that somehow manages to sneak its way onto every Thanksgiving table—and for good reason. It’s comforting, it’s simple, and it’s basically a love letter in casserole form. Made with tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and those irresistible crispy onions, this dish is the definition of cozy.
If you’re anything like me (hi, Jessica here from Texas), you’ve probably made this at least once while juggling kids, dinner rolls, and a pie cooling on the counter. Whether it’s your first time making this timeless favorite or your hundredth, Campbells Green Bean Casserole is one of those easy, no-fuss recipes that feels like home—especially when the house smells like comfort and Thanksgiving memories all rolled into one.
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What is Campbells Green Bean Casserole?
Campbells Green Bean Casserole is a vintage holiday side dish first introduced in the 1950s, and it hasn’t lost an ounce of charm since. It’s made by combining condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and green beans, all baked together until perfectly creamy and topped with golden fried onions. You can use canned, frozen, or fresh green beans—each adds its own texture and flavor. The real magic happens when the crispy onions hit that creamy base—it’s crunchy meets creamy in the best possible way.
Whether baked in a traditional oven or even in an air fryer (because modern moms multitask), this casserole remains a crowd-pleasing staple that pairs beautifully with turkey, mashed potatoes, and gravy. Basically, it’s the dish you’ll be scooping seconds of before dessert even hits the table.
Reasons to Try Campbells Green Bean Casserole
First off, Campbells Green Bean Casserole wins major points for simplicity. You only need a few ingredients and about 20 minutes of total time—perfect for anyone who’s trying to impress the in-laws without breaking a sweat. Secondly, it’s budget-friendly and adaptable. Want it vegetarian? It already is. Want it cheesier? Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheddar into the mix.
Lastly, it’s just plain delicious. That mix of creamy soup, tender green beans, and salty, crunchy onions hits all the right comfort food notes. Plus, it’s practically foolproof, which means even if you’re not much of a cook, this recipe’s got your back. Oh, and if you end up with leftovers (doubtful), they reheat like a dream. Need more cozy side dish ideas? Check out this Southern Sweet Potato Casserole for another family favorite.
Ingredients Needed to Make Campbells Green Bean Casserole
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 4 cups cut green beans (2 cans, 1 package frozen, or 1½ lbs fresh)
- 1⅓ cups crispy French fried onions, divided
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions to Make Campbells Green Bean Casserole
Step 1: Gather and Prep Everything
Let’s kick things off Step by Step by setting yourself up for success. Before you even turn on the oven, gather all your ingredients—cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, green beans, pepper, and of course, those crispy fried onions. Preheat your oven (or air fryer) to 350°F and spray a 9×9 casserole dish with a light coating of nonstick spray. It might seem like a tiny detail, but skipping this step can mean extra scrubbing later—and who wants that after a big meal? If you’re in the middle of planning your Thanksgiving spread, check out my Sweet Potato and Turkey Casserole for another make-ahead option that saves you time and oven space.
Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans
This Step by Step moment is where texture really matters. If you’re using fresh green beans, trim off the ends, cut them into bite-sized pieces, and give them a quick blanch in boiling water for about 2 minutes. You want them vibrant and slightly tender—not mushy. Immediately drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Using canned green beans instead? Just drain them thoroughly to keep your casserole from getting watery. For frozen green beans, let them thaw first and pat them dry. Need more ideas for prepping vegetables the right way? You’ll love the easy guide in my Flavorful Quinoa Vegetable Soup, where fresh veggies steal the show.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
Now for the heart of this Campbells Green Bean Casserole—the creamy sauce. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and soy sauce until smooth and lump-free. This Step by Step process is quick but important. The soy sauce might seem like a small addition, but it adds that deep, savory flavor that makes the casserole taste homemade and rich. Add a pinch of pepper for just the right balance.
If you’re feeling creative, this is also where you can experiment with flavors—swap soy sauce for Worcestershire for a tangy twist, or stir in a handful of shredded cheddar for a cheesier version. For more creamy comfort dishes, check out my Creamy Mushroom Wild Rice Soup.
Step 4: Combine the Magic
Here’s where everything comes together Step by Step into that classic casserole we all know and love. Add the prepared green beans into your creamy mixture, then fold in about half of your crispy fried onions (roughly ⅔ cup). Stir gently until every bean is evenly coated and glistening with creamy goodness. Don’t be shy about getting everything well mixed—this helps every bite taste balanced and rich. Spread the mixture evenly in your greased casserole dish, smoothing out the top with the back of a spoon. You’ll want it to look nice and level so it bakes evenly.
Step 5: Bake or Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Here’s the Step by Step moment where the magic happens. If you’re baking in the oven, place the dish in the center rack and bake for 25 minutes. Then, give the casserole a gentle stir to keep the sauce evenly distributed and sprinkle the rest of your crispy onions on top. Return it to the oven for another 5 minutes until the top turns golden and crunchy.
If you’re using an air fryer (because hello, modern convenience), bake it for 10 minutes, stir, add the remaining onions, and cook for 2 more minutes. The air fryer method is especially great if you’re short on oven space during the holidays or cooking smaller portions. For more air fryer inspiration, try pairing this with my Crock Pot Candied Yams—sweet and savory heaven on one plate.
Step 6: Rest, Serve, and Savor
Finally, the last Step by Step part—letting your masterpiece rest. Once your Campbells Green Bean Casserole is bubbly and golden brown, take it out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This quick pause allows the sauce to thicken just a bit and the flavors to meld perfectly. Then serve it up warm as the perfect side to your Thanksgiving turkey, Sunday roast, or even a casual weeknight dinner. If you love cozy, creamy comfort foods like this, you might also enjoy my Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup for another bowlful of seasonal comfort.
By following these Step by Step directions, you’ll have a Campbells Green Bean Casserole that’s not only creamy and flavorful but also picture-perfect for your holiday table. It’s quick, easy, and practically foolproof—just how classic comfort food should be.
What to Serve with Campbells Green Bean Casserole
Campbells Green Bean Casserole pairs perfectly with traditional Thanksgiving staples—think roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce. But don’t save it just for the holidays! It’s a fantastic side for roasted chicken or grilled pork chops. If you want a cozy vegetarian pairing, try it with my Vegan Cabbage Soup or Hearty One-Pot Lentil Stew. And if you’re feeling a little extra festive, serve it alongside a dollop of Maple Cranberry Butter—the sweet and savory combo is unforgettable.
Key Tips for Making Campbells Green Bean Casserole
For the best texture, use fresh or frozen green beans—they stay firmer than canned. Don’t skip the soy sauce; it adds a touch of umami that balances the creamy sauce. If you’re craving a richer version, add shredded cheese or even a handful of sautéed mushrooms for depth. Make it ahead by prepping the casserole up to the baking step, covering it tightly, and refrigerating it for up to a day.
Then just pop it in the oven before dinner. Oh, and one more tip? Double the fried onions if you’re cooking for a crowd—they disappear fast.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Campbells Green Bean Casserole
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to revive the crispiness. Microwaving works too, but you’ll lose some crunch—so if you have a few extra fried onions, sprinkle them on top before serving. You can also freeze it (minus the onions) for up to a month.
Just thaw overnight in the fridge and bake fresh toppings on when ready to serve. It’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day—kind of like Thanksgiving itself.
FAQs
Can I make Campbells Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prep it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for 24 hours. Add the onions and bake when ready.
Can I use almond milk instead of dairy?
Absolutely! Unsweetened almond milk works great and keeps the dish light.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Sure—just use gluten-free fried onions and mushroom soup.
Can I make this in the air fryer?
Yes, bake for 10 minutes at 350°F, then add onions and cook for 2 more minutes.
Can I add cheese?
Of course! Cheddar or Monterey Jack melt beautifully into the mix.
Final Thoughts
Campbells Green Bean Casserole is one of those recipes that never goes out of style. It’s quick, comforting, and hits the nostalgia button just right. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a cozy family dinner, this dish delivers that perfect mix of creamy and crispy every time. So grab your green beans, your soup can, and a little bit of Texas-sized love—because this casserole deserves a spot on your table year after year.
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Campbells Green Bean Casserole: Quick and Creamy Family Favorite
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Make classic Campbells Green Bean Casserole for a delicious and easy Thanksgiving dinner. This homemade green bean casserole recipe features creamy mushroom soup, crispy fried onions, and tender green beans. It’s a favorite cheesy green bean side dish that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 can condensed Cream of Mushroom soup (10.5 ounces)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 4 cups cut green beans (2 cans, one 16-ounce package frozen, or 1 1/2 pounds fresh)
- 1 1/3 cup crispy French fried onions, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Spray a 9×9 casserole dish with cooking spray.
2. If using fresh green beans, clean, cut, and blanch them in a pot of boiling water for 2 minutes. If using canned green beans, drain them in a colander.
3. Mix the soup and milk together in a bowl. Stir until smooth and lump-free. Add the soy sauce and mix.
4. Stir in the green beans and 2/3 cup of the French fried onions (about half). Add pepper to taste and mix well.
5. Pour the green bean mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
6. For air fryer: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes. Stir the casserole, sprinkle the remaining onions on top, and cook for 2 more minutes to brown.
7. For oven: Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. Stir, then sprinkle the remaining onions on top and bake for 5 more minutes until golden brown.
Notes
For best results, use fresh or frozen green beans and avoid overcooking.
You can substitute soy sauce with Worcestershire sauce for a different flavor profile.
This is a great side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family dinner.
