Every Thanksgiving, the Campbells green bean casserole dish turns simple meals into special memories. This classic dish adds warmth and comfort to your table. It connects generations with its delicious taste.
This casserole is more than just food. It brings families together, creating shared moments. As you make this beloved recipe, you know it will start conversations and make memories that last.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- A quintessential holiday side dish loved by 5 out of 5 voters
- Easy to prepare with simple, readily available ingredients
- Serves 8-10 people, perfect for family gatherings
- Low-calorie option with only 179 calories per serving
- Can be stored in refrigerator for up to five days
- Versatile recipe that can be customized to personal preferences
- Quick baking time of just 20 minutes
Understanding the Classic Campbells Green Bean Casserole Dish
The green bean casserole is a favorite in many American homes. It has a special place in our hearts, thanks to its origins in 1955.
History of This Traditional Family Favorite
Dorcas Reilly, a home economist at Campbell’s Soup Company, created this dish in 1955. She used just five ingredients. It quickly became a hit in kitchens everywhere.
This casserole was a quick and tasty option for busy cooks. It made meals memorable.
Why This Dish Remains a Holiday Staple
Several reasons make the green bean casserole a holiday favorite:
- Simplicity of preparation
- Comfort food appeal
- Nostalgic family connections
- Versatility for holiday gatherings
“A recipe that connects generations through flavor and tradition”
Nutritional Overview and Benefits
The dish is not just tasty. It’s also good for you. Here’s a look at its nutritional profile:
| Nutrient | Percentage of Daily Value |
|---|---|
| Vitamin D | 1% |
| Calcium | 4% |
| Iron | 4% |
| Potassium | 4% |
The french fried onions on top are the best part. They add a crunchy texture to the creamy filling. This dish is perfect for any meal, bringing families together with its delicious flavors.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Green Bean Bake
Making the ultimate green bean casserole begins with picking the right ingredients. You’ll need canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and French fried onions. These three are the heart of a tasty, comforting dish that everyone will love.
Core Ingredients Breakdown
- Canned green beans: Pick 3 (15.5 oz) cans for the best texture and ease
- Cream of mushroom soup: Use 3 (10.5 oz) cans of Campbell’s for a creamy taste
- French fried onions: Choose 2 (6 oz) containers of French’s for a crispy top
The secret to this dish is the perfect mix of ingredients. Canned green beans are the base, and the cream of mushroom soup adds a rich sauce. The French fried onions give that crunchy topping everyone loves.
Nutritional Snapshot
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 558 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 44g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 39g |
| Sodium | 1168mg |
For a lighter version, try low-sodium cream of mushroom soup and less French fried onions. You can also use fresh green beans for a fresher taste.
“The secret to an amazing green bean casserole is balancing flavor, texture, and nostalgia.” – Home Cooking Expert
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Making a perfect cream of mushroom casserole needs focus and some special techniques. Follow these steps to make a tasty green bean bake that will wow your loved ones.
Preparing the Green Beans
First, pick the best green beans for your dish. You’ll need 1 1/2 pounds of frozen green beans. Make sure they are dry to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Drain green beans completely
- Pat beans dry with clean paper towels
- Allow beans to reach room temperature
Making the Cream of Mushroom Base
The cream of mushroom base is key to your casserole. You’ll need 12 ounces of mushrooms, 4 tablespoons of butter, and 1/4 cup of flour. This mix will make a creamy sauce.
- Sauté sliced mushrooms in butter
- Add minced garlic for extra flavor
- Sprinkle flour to create a roux
- Gradually whisk in milk and broth
Adding the French Fried Onions
French fried onions give your dish a crispy topping. Use two 6-ounce cans of crispy fried onions for the best green bean bake.
- Mix 2/3 of onions into the casserole
- Sprinkle remaining onions on top
- Bake until golden and crispy
Pro tip: For more crunch, add extra french fried onions. Your guests will love it!
*Cooking is an art, and this green bean casserole is your masterpiece.*
| Preparation Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Serves | 8-10 people |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25-30 minutes |
| Calories per Serving | 202 |
Tips for Achieving the Best Results
Making the perfect holiday side dish needs focus and some special techniques. Your Campbells green bean casserole can go from good to great with these cooking tips.
- Green Bean Selection: Pick French-cut green beans for the best texture and even cooking. Fresh green beans taste better than frozen or canned ones.
- Moisture Management: Keep your casserole from being too wet by drying green beans well. Use a clean kitchen towel to get rid of extra moisture.
- Crispy Topping Technique: Spread French fried onions evenly for the perfect crunch. Add more onions for 5 minutes before baking for better texture.
Cooking time is key for the right consistency. Bake for 15-20 minutes to keep green beans tender but not mushy.
Pro tip: A perfectly prepared holiday side dish should have a crispy top and creamy interior.
| Technique | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Stovetop Ingredient Preparation | Improves flavor and texture before baking |
| Thickening Agent | Prevents watery consistency |
| Careful Topping Application | Ensures crispy, golden-brown finish |
For more flavor, try adding cheddar cheese or sherry vinegar. These small changes can make your classic campbells green bean casserole dish stand out.
- Store leftovers in single-serving containers
- Refrigerate promptly after cooling
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality
Follow these tips to make a holiday side dish that will wow your family and friends.
Variations and Dietary Modifications
Changing the traditional green bean bake lets you make it fit different diets and tastes. You can cut down on sodium, handle allergies, or change the texture. These smart changes help you make a casserole that’s just right for you.
Low-Sodium Adaptations
Lowering sodium doesn’t mean losing flavor in your green bean bake. Try these tips:
- Use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup
- Replace salt with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary
- Opt for no-salt-added canned green beans
Cream Substitutions
Some diets or tastes might need different cream bases:
| Substitute | Best For | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Almond milk | Dairy-free diets | Light, nutty |
| Greek yogurt | Higher protein | Tangy, creamy |
| Coconut milk | Vegan options | Rich, slightly sweet |
Texture Enhancements
Make your classic Thanksgiving recipe better with these texture tips:
- Double the French fried onion quantity
- Mix in crispy bacon bits
- Sprinkle toasted sliced almonds
- Add a crunchy Panko breadcrumb layer
Remember, creativity is key in making your green bean bake unique. Try new ingredients to find your favorite version!
Conclusion
The Campbell’s green bean casserole dish is a beloved treasure for over 70 years. It’s a favorite at holiday meals, bringing joy and memories to families everywhere in the U.S.
This side dish is easy to make with just 6 ingredients and takes only 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a hit because it’s simple, tasty, and comforting. It truly captures the spirit of American cooking.
Whether for Thanksgiving or a simple family dinner, this casserole is more than a side. It’s a tradition that brings families together, sharing tastes and moments. By making this dish, you’re keeping a piece of American food history alive.
This dish is also great because you can make it ahead of time, freeze it, and adjust it for different diets. It’s a favorite for many reasons, making it perfect for any event.
FAQ
How many calories are in a serving of Campbells Green Bean Casserole?
A typical serving has 231-232 calories. It includes 16g total fat, 6g saturated fat, and 20g total carbohydrates. The dish also offers small amounts of essential nutrients like 4% daily value for Calcium, Iron, and Potassium.
Can I make a low-sodium version of the green bean casserole?
Yes, you can make a lower-sodium version. Use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup and low-sodium soy sauce. You can also control salt by choosing ingredients carefully and possibly using half-and-half instead of milk.
What are the key ingredients for a classic Green Bean Casserole?
The traditional recipe includes 2 cans of cut green beans, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, and French fried onions. You’ll need about 2 2/3 cups of French fried onions. Some go into the soup, and some are used as a crispy topping.
How can I prevent my casserole from being too watery?
To avoid a watery casserole, dry your green beans well before adding them. This removes excess moisture, making the dish firmer and more appealing.
Are there ways to customize the Green Bean Casserole?
Yes! You can customize it by adjusting the French fried onions, trying different cream bases, or adding low-sodium soy sauce. The recipe is versatile and can be tailored to various dietary needs and tastes.
Is this dish nutritionally beneficial?
While not a health food, the casserole has some nutritional value. It offers small amounts of essential nutrients like 1% Vitamin D, 4% Calcium, 4% Iron, and 4% Potassium. It also has 2-3g of protein and 2g of dietary fiber per serving.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare most of the casserole ahead. Mix the ingredients and store them in the fridge. Add the crispy French fried onion topping just before baking to keep it crunchy. This makes it perfect for holiday meals.
Source Links
- Campbells Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Green Bean Casserole – Love and Lemons
- Can Any Green Bean Casserole Recipe Unseat Campbell’s?
- The Magical Trick That Makes Green Bean Casserole Twice as Nice
Ingredients
- Base:
- 4 cups green beans (fresh, frozen, or canned), trimmed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup
- ½ cup milk
- Seasonings and Topping:
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1½ cups crispy fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, and soy sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
- Layer the Dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle crispy fried onions evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 25 minutes or until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Make It Fresh: Use fresh green beans for a crunchier texture. Blanch them before using.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free crispy onions.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.