There’s something deeply comforting about a dish that has stood the test of time. Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is one of those iconic, nostalgic recipes that never fails to bring a sense of warmth and familiarity to the table. Originally created in the 1950s by Dorcas Reilly in the Campbell’s Test Kitchen, this casserole was designed to be simple, affordable, and delicious. And decades later, it still holds a cherished spot at countless Thanksgiving dinners and potluck gatherings across America.

This casserole combines just a handful of pantry staples—green beans, cream of mushroom soup, crispy fried onions, and a touch of seasoning—but the result is pure comfort food magic. Each bite offers a creamy, savory base with tender green beans and that irresistible crunch from golden fried onions. What makes it even more special is how customizable and forgiving it is. Whether you prefer fresh, frozen, or canned green beans, or want to add your own twist with shredded cheese, turkey bacon, or a sprinkle of almonds, this casserole welcomes it all.

I remember the first time I made this on my own after moving into my first apartment. It was Thanksgiving, and I wanted to bring something that tasted like home. My mom had always made this dish without fail every year, and while hers had that irreplaceable “mom touch,” my version brought me comfort in its own way. Now it’s become a non-negotiable part of my holiday menu, and I’ve even started making it on random Sundays when I’m craving something cozy and uncomplicated.

Whether you’re making this for a holiday meal or just looking to recreate that classic comfort food experience, Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a recipe that delivers every time. It’s not just a dish—it’s a tradition that lives on with each creamy, crispy, crowd-pleasing bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe (Minimum 300 words)

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this timeless casserole, starting with how incredibly easy it is to make. Even if you’re a total beginner in the kitchen, this recipe comes together effortlessly with minimal prep and very little cleanup. All you really need is one bowl to mix everything, a baking dish, and a handful of familiar ingredients you might already have on hand.

Beyond its simplicity, the flavor is what really seals the deal. The cream of mushroom soup creates a rich, velvety sauce that clings to the green beans, adding a deep umami flavor that’s enhanced with just a splash of soy sauce. The French fried onions not only bring a salty crunch on top but also add texture and a burst of flavor throughout the casserole. It’s the kind of dish that makes people go back for seconds—and thirds.

Another reason this recipe is so lovable is its versatility. You can stick to the classic version or make it your own. Want to make it a little heartier? Toss in some chopped turkey bacon or top it with shredded cheese. Looking to keep it vegetarian? No problem. The base is already meat-free, and you can easily adapt the toppings to suit any dietary needs. Plus, with the air fryer method, you can whip it up even faster with a slightly crispier edge, making it perfect for those who want to save oven space during busy holiday cooking.

Health Benefits

While Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a comfort food staple, it doesn’t mean it lacks nutritional value. In fact, when prepared with a few thoughtful choices, this dish can contribute positively to your meal. Green beans, the primary ingredient, are naturally low in calories but packed with fiber, vitamins, and essential nutrients. They’re a great source of vitamin C, which supports your immune system, and vitamin K, which helps with blood clotting and bone health.

Additionally, green beans provide folate and antioxidants, which may reduce inflammation and promote heart health. They’re also rich in plant-based compounds like flavonoids, known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Whether you use fresh, canned, or frozen green beans, you’re getting a solid nutritional base to start with.

Crispy French fried onions bring texture and flavor, though they are more indulgent. To lighten things up, you could use a smaller amount or try baking your own crispy shallots at home. Alternatively, topping the casserole with sliced almonds adds a healthy fat and a nice crunch while cutting down on the sodium and saturated fat.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

One of the best things about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. Whether you’re making it on the fly or prepping ahead for a special occasion, it won’t demand much of your time or energy.

Total Preparation Time:

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes (oven) or 12–15 minutes (air fryer)
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Servings: 6–8 servings

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):

Calories: 160
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 540mg
Sugar: 2g

Ingredients List

You only need a handful of easy-to-find ingredients to make this classic Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole. Most of these are pantry or fridge staples, and you may already have them on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – This is the creamy, savory base that brings everything together. You can use low-sodium or a dairy-free version if needed.
½ cup milk – Adds richness and helps thin the soup to make a smooth sauce. Any milk works here, including plant-based.
1 teaspoon soy sauce – Adds a subtle depth of umami flavor.
4 cups green beans – Use canned, frozen, or fresh. If using fresh, blanch them briefly; if frozen, thaw or rinse under warm water.
1⅓ cups crispy French fried onions, divided – Half gets mixed in for flavor and texture, and the rest goes on top for that classic crunch.
Black pepper, to taste – Just a pinch to balance the flavors.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through exactly how to make this green bean casserole. Whether you’re using the oven or an air fryer, you’ll find this process super easy.

Step 1: Prep Your Green Beans

If using fresh green beans, wash, trim the ends, and cut them in half. Blanch them in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then immediately drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking.
If using canned green beans, drain and rinse thoroughly.
If using frozen green beans, you don’t need to thaw. Just rinse under warm water to separate and remove any ice crystals.

Fresh beans will have more bite, but all three types work fine. Choose based on your preference and schedule.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and soy sauce. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. It should be creamy but pourable.
Add a few cracks of black pepper to taste.

This mixture is your creamy base and will coat the beans for that signature comfort food feel.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Add the prepared green beans into the bowl.
Mix in 2/3 cup of the crispy French fried onions.
Gently stir until everything is well coated and evenly distributed.

You want every green bean to get a nice coating of sauce and a few bits of onion mixed in for texture.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 1½–2 quart baking dish with oil or cooking spray.
Pour the mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.

At this point, you can refrigerate it if you’re prepping ahead. Just remember to add a few extra minutes when baking from cold.

Step 5: Bake in the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 minutes.
After 25 minutes, remove it from the oven, stir gently, and sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup of French fried onions on top.
Return to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

The edges should be bubbling, and the top should have a golden brown crunch.

How to Serve

Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is most often served warm as a side dish, but it’s flexible enough to fit into different meals. Here are a few ways to serve it:

Thanksgiving Dinner Staple: Serve it next to your main dish, whether that’s roasted chicken, turkey, or a vegetarian roast. It complements stuffing, mashed potatoes, and gravy beautifully.
Weeknight Side: Pair it with grilled or baked chicken, turkey meatballs, or even pan-seared tofu for an easy dinner.
Part of a Potluck Spread: This casserole holds up well, so it’s great for potlucks or family gatherings. Just bring it in a warm dish and serve straight from the baking pan.

Pairing Suggestions

This casserole is creamy and savory, so it pairs best with dishes that contrast or balance its richness.

Main Course Pairings

Herb-Roasted Chicken: A simple roast chicken with garlic and herbs balances the creamy casserole nicely.
Grilled Turkey Cutlets: Quick-cooking and lean, turkey makes a natural pairing.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: A lighter vegetarian main that complements without overwhelming.

Side Dish Ideas

Mashed Potatoes: The creamy-on-creamy combo is a comfort food dream.
Crisp Garden Salad: Choose a vinaigrette dressing to cut through the richness.
Roasted Carrots or Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the umami flavors in the casserole.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

This casserole is ideal for making ahead, storing, and reheating.

Refrigerator Storage

Let the casserole cool to room temperature.
Transfer to an airtight container or cover the baking dish with foil.
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t add the fried onions on top.
Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or place portions in a freezer-safe container.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge. Add fried onions right before baking.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
Add fresh onions on top before reheating for extra crunch.
Individual servings can be microwaved for 1–2 minutes, but the onions will soften.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is easy, a few simple missteps can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

Using watery green beans – If you don’t drain canned beans or thaw frozen ones properly, excess water can make the casserole soupy. Always drain well and pat dry if needed.
Not seasoning enough – While the soup and soy sauce bring flavor, don’t forget a little black pepper or even garlic powder to round it out.
Skipping the blanching step for fresh beans – If you use fresh green beans without blanching them, they might stay too firm after baking. A quick boil keeps their texture just right.

Pro Tips

Here are a few helpful tips to take your casserole from good to great:

Prep ahead – You can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Add an extra 5–10 minutes to the bake time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Go fresh if you can – Fresh green beans have the best texture and color, especially if you’re serving guests.
Make it your own – Add-ins like cheese, turkey bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even chopped nuts give the dish a personal twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh green beans?
Yes! Just trim, blanch them for 2–3 minutes, and cool before using. They’ll give your casserole a vibrant color and slightly firmer texture.

Can I use a different soup?
Definitely. Cream of celery, chicken, or even cheddar soup can be used if you prefer a different flavor.

How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free fried onions or an alternative like crushed gluten-free crackers.

Is it halal?
Yes, as long as you avoid pork bacon. Use turkey bacon or skip it entirely. Also, make sure your soup and fried onions have no non-halal additives.

Can I make it dairy-free?
You can use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup and plant-based milk. It’ll still be creamy and delicious.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a piece of holiday tradition that brings people together. With its creamy texture, crispy topping, and warm, nostalgic flavor, it’s the kind of recipe that stays with you. Whether you’re making it for a Thanksgiving feast or just a cozy Sunday dinner, it delivers every single time.

The best part is how adaptable it is. You can stick with the classic five ingredients or make it your own with extras like cheese, turkey bacon, or fresh herbs. You can bake it in the oven or speed things up in the air fryer. No matter how you tweak it, the result is always comforting and satisfying.

Once you give it a go, let me know how it turns out! I’d love to hear your spin on it. Did you try a new topping? Go with fresh green beans? Snap a photo and tag me—I love seeing what you create.

Happy cooking, and here’s to keeping delicious traditions alive!