Campbells green bean casserole is practically a rite of passage in my family during the holidays. Every Thanksgiving, someone inevitably hollers from the kitchen, “Where’s the can opener?” because, let’s be honest, nobody remembered to prep the green beans ahead of time. That’s the charm, though! It’s not a fancy dish, but somehow, it’s always the first empty casserole at the table.
First, I have to admit, there’s something magical about the mix of creamy soup, crunchy onions, and those bright green beans. Also, it just screams comfort food. When I was a kid, I’d sneak extra French fried onions before anyone noticed. Oops. Even now, when I catch a whiff of that bubbling casserole, I’m instantly back in my grandma’s kitchen, dodging elbows and trying not to spill anything. So, if you’re looking for that classic, cozy side dish, this is the one you need. Whether it’s Thanksgiving green beans or a random Tuesday, this recipe always feels like home.
Personal Anecdote
You know those days when you’re juggling three dishes, your phone’s timer is blaring, and you just realized you forgot to preheat the oven? That was my last Thanksgiving. Right in the middle of my kitchen chaos, I reached for my trusty campbells green bean casserole. It’s my secret weapon for surviving family dinners, especially when I’m already knee-deep in turkey and mashed potato drama. Honestly, I’ve even made this on game day—because who says you need a holiday for comfort food?
Then, I remembered a friend swearing by her chicken piccata meatballs for quick dinners, but I’ll always stand by this green bean casserole campbells classic. The way it comes together—just soup, beans, and those crispy onions—makes you wonder why we ever complicate things. Sometimes, the simplest dishes are the ones everyone talks about long after dinner. Also, it’s a side dish that never tries to steal the spotlight, but somehow, it’s always the star in my eyes.
Why This Recipe is Special
So, what makes this traditional green bean casserole so beloved? First, it’s the classic green bean casserole flavor. The creamy, savory sauce and crispy topping turn an ordinary meal into something that feels festive, even on a random weeknight. Plus, it’s a lifesaver for Thanksgiving cooking, when oven space is tight and everyone’s hungry. If you’re hunting for Thanksgiving recipes side dishes, this one’s a no-brainer.
Finally, I’ll never forget the time my cousin tried a fancy bean casserole—with truffle oil and everything—and everyone still reached for the classic. That’s the magic of this greenbean casserole recipe. If you need more cozy ideas, check out this Mississippi chicken recipe—but don’t be surprised if this casserole steals the show at your table, too!

Ingredients breakdown
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Condensed Cream of Mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 ounces) |
Milk | 1/2 cup |
Soy sauce | 1 teaspoon |
Green beans (canned, frozen, or fresh) | 4 cups |
Crispy French fried onions | 1 1/3 cups, divided |
Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste |
Utensils and substitutions
First, you’ll need a 9×9-inch casserole dish for this recipe. I like to use a glass or ceramic one, but any oven-safe dish works. Don’t forget a small bowl for mixing the soup, milk, and soy sauce. If you have fresh green beans, grab a pot for blanching—just two minutes in boiling water does the trick. For stirring, a trusty wooden spoon or spatula keeps things simple and old-fashioned.
If you don’t have crispy French fried onions, try using crunchy fried shallots or even toasted breadcrumbs as a topping. For the soup, any creamy mushroom or vegetable soup will do if you’re in a pinch. Air fryers and ovens both work, so use whichever you have on hand. When cooking for a crowd, just double the ingredients and use a larger dish.
Also, if you’re looking for more family-friendly sides to go along with your or , my Best Creamy Ranch Chicken Dinner Easy Kid Friendly Family Approved is always a hit. Or, for something lighter, check out my Best Easy Chicken Burrito Bowl For A Healthy Family Dinner. Finally, if you want to make sure your is as nutritious as possible, take a peek at Nutrition.gov for tips on healthy eating during holiday feasts. It’s always nice to balance tradition with a little modern know-how!
Step-by-step method for a campbells green bean casserole
Step 1
First, spray your 9×9-inch casserole dish with cooking spray. If you’re using fresh green beans, clean, cut, and blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes. For canned green beans, simply drain them well. This keeps everything fresh and crisp, just like my grandma always did for our Classic Green Bean Casserole.
Step 2
Next, in a medium bowl, mix the condensed Cream of Mushroom soup with milk until smooth—no lumps! Stir in the soy sauce. Afterward, add the green beans and about half of the crispy French fried onions. Season with pepper to your taste, then gently mix everything together. My kids love to help with this step, even if a few onions don’t make it into the bowl.
Step 3
Then, spread the mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish. For oven lovers, bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. Stir, sprinkle the rest of the onions on top, and bake 5 more minutes. If you’re using an air fryer, bake at 350°F for 10 minutes, stir, top with remaining onions, and cook 2 extra minutes. Serve as a Dinner side, especially for Thanksgiving Green Beans or any comforting meal.
Tips and tricks to make this Side Dish recipe shine
First, don’t be afraid to use frozen or canned beans—both work well for a Traditional Green Bean Casserole and save time during busy Thanksgiving Cooking. Also, if you like your campbells green bean casserole extra creamy, try adding a splash more milk. For a twist, toss in a handful of shredded cheese before baking. If you’re planning your Thanksgiving Recipes Side Dishes, this dish pairs beautifully with many mains. Need more inspiration? You might love this Best Cozy Merry Me Chicken Pasta For A Hearty Family Dinner or an Easy Dump Go Marry Me Chicken Best 5 Star Dinner Recipe. Finally, don’t stress if your onions brown a little more than expected—those crispy bits are always the first to go at my table!
What to serve with this Side Dish recipe
When making Campbells green bean casserole, you might wonder what else to set on the table. First, this bean casserole shines next to roasted turkey, grilled chicken, or even a simple vegetarian main. Also, it fits perfectly among other Thanksgiving dishes. Next, if you’re planning a weeknight meal, try serving it alongside the Best Easy Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza Quick Healthy Lunch Idea for a fun mix of flavors. Many families love to add mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for balance.
However, don’t stop there. For a Mediterranean twist, pair the casserole with Best Easy Mediterranean Chicken Piccata For A Healthy Dinner Tonight. The bright, lemony chicken cuts through the creamy casserole beautifully. Finally, if you enjoy Thanksgiving recipes side dishes, try a cranberry relish or honey-glazed carrots for a pop of color and flavor.
How to store and reheat
Next, let’s talk leftovers. Store your classic green bean casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Also, you can freeze individual portions for up to two months. When reheating, use the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to maintain crispiness. However, if you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just know the topping may lose some crunch. Finally, always check that it’s heated through before serving again.
FAQ
Can I make this greenbean casserole recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it the day before. Next, cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Is this dish gluten-free?
It usually contains a soup base with gluten. However, you can use a gluten-free cream soup and fried onions for a safe swap.
What are some protein options to serve with this casserole?
First, try roast chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty lentil loaf. These pair well and make the meal complete.
How do I keep the topping crispy?
Next, add fried onions during the last 10 minutes of baking. This helps them stay crunchy and golden.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! However, blanch them first for best texture in your traditional green bean casserole.
Print
Campbells Green Bean Casserole
- Total Time: 25 minutes (air fryer) or 40 minutes (oven)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic and creamy green bean casserole made with condensed mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and topped with crispy French fried onions. It is a perfect vegetarian side dish for Thanksgiving or any festive meal.
Ingredients
1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed Cream of Mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon soy sauce
4 cups cut green beans (canned drained, frozen, or fresh blanched)
1 1/3 cups crispy French fried onions, divided
1/4 teaspoon pepper, or to taste
Instructions
1. Spray a 9×9-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
2. Prepare green beans: if fresh, clean, cut, and blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes; if canned, drain.
3. In a bowl, combine condensed Cream of Mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Stir in soy sauce.
4. Add green beans and about half of the crispy French fried onions. Season with pepper and mix well.
5. Spread mixture evenly in casserole dish.
6. To cook in the air fryer: bake at 350°F for 10 minutes, stir, sprinkle remaining onions, and cook 2 more minutes until browned.
7. To cook in the oven: bake at 350°F for 25 minutes, stir, sprinkle remaining onions, and bake 5 more minutes until golden brown.
Notes
Use fresh, frozen, or canned green beans depending on preference.
Soy sauce enhances umami flavor.
Can swap Cream of Mushroom soup with a halal-certified mushroom soup.
Best served warm for optimal flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (air fryer) or 30 minutes (oven)
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Cooking campbells green bean casserole always brings a little nostalgia, doesn’t it? First, whether you’re new to Thanksgiving cooking or a seasoned pro, there’s something comforting about that creamy, crunchy bite. Also, I love how this dish fits right into any meal, not just the holidays. Next, if you’re looking for more dinner inspiration, check out the Best Easy Mediterranean Chicken Piccata or keep it light with the Best Easy Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza. Finally, remember to browse our Meal Type board for even more ideas to round out your table. If you’d like to keep all these Thanksgiving green beans and classic favorites in your back pocket, follow us on Pinterest for cozy, imperfect recipes straight from our kitchen to yours.