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This irresistible Campbells green bean casserole is the star of my family’s holiday table and honestly turns an ordinary weeknight into something a little special Thanks to its creamy nostalgic flavor and classic crunchy topping it is always gone before the main dish Even those who claim not to like green beans come back for seconds
Last Christmas I brought this casserole to our small family dinner and everyone asked for the recipe before the meal was even over The secret is in the golden onions and super creamy mushroom base
Gather Your Ingredients
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup: provides the creamy rich base use a quality brand for best flavor
- Milk: helps achieve the right pourable consistency whole or 2 percent works well
- Soy sauce: adds deep savory notes and balances the richness use low sodium if you prefer
- Green beans: offer freshness and vibrant color canned for convenience fresh for a crisper bite or frozen for easy prep make sure to drain or thaw well
- Ground black pepper: gives gentle heat and a little depth try fresh cracked for the best result
- Crispy french fried onions: bring irresistible crunch and savory flavor look for a golden color and freshness check the sell by date for best texture
How to Make It
- Prep the Oven and Dish:
- Heat oven to 350 degrees and lightly grease a two quart casserole dish to prevent sticking and make serving easier
- Make the Sauce Base:
- In a large bowl mix the condensed mushroom soup milk soy sauce and black pepper whisk until completely smooth so that the flavors are blended without lumps
- Combine with Beans:
- Add your drained green beans to the bowl and gently fold to coat every piece and distribute the creamy mixture evenly
- Assemble in Casserole Dish:
- Spoon the green bean mixture into your prepared baking dish spread evenly then sprinkle about two thirds of the crispy onions over the top to become extra golden during baking
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake uncovered for twenty five minutes or until the casserole is bubbling and heated through this ensures the beans get hot and the flavors meld
- Finish with Onion Crunch:
- Remove casserole from the oven sprinkle the remaining onions evenly on top then return to oven for five more minutes until onions are deep golden and crisp
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the casserole rest for five minutes before serving so the sauce thickens slightly making it easier to portion and extra satisfying
My kids now call this grandma’s magic green bean recipe They always argue over the corner pieces with the most onions I love the taste of the onions straight from the can but nothing beats them after a little oven time so crisp and golden
Flavor Boosters
Try cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a slightly different flavor Tamari or coconut aminos can stand in for soy sauce for gluten free and low sodium diets Fresh green beans deliver a little bite but need a quick three minute blanch before adding
Serving Suggestions
This casserole stars at Thanksgiving and Christmas but also fits beautifully beside roast chicken or a baked ham For weeknights I serve with a loaf of warm bread and a green salad Leftovers make a great filling in savory hand pies or wraps just tuck into a tortilla and heat
Creative Twists
In spring try adding a cup of sautéed mushrooms or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for brightness During fall toss in toasted almonds for a nutty twist In the heart of winter add a generous pinch of red pepper flakes for extra warmth
Everyone will be asking for your secret This nostalgic side always disappears fast so make a double batch if you want leftovers
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, fresh green beans can be used. Blanch them briefly before assembling to ensure a tender texture.
- → What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can use homemade mushroom sauce or substitute with cream of celery or chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
- → How do I keep the fried onions crispy?
Wait to add the final layer of fried onions until the last few minutes of baking to ensure they stay crunchy.
- → Is this dish suitable for make-ahead?
Yes, assemble in advance without the fried onions, then bake and add onions just before serving.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Leftovers can be frozen, but the onions may lose their crunch. Reheat in the oven for best results.