As autumn arrives, kitchens across America fill with the scent of baked goods, laughter, and tradition. Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a staple at holiday meals, bringing back memories of joy and family. This dish, with its creamy texture and crunchy onions, is a favorite at over 20 million Thanksgiving dinners1.
It’s more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of comfort and togetherness. The classic green bean casserole satisfies our taste buds and strengthens family bonds during the holidays.
Key Takeaways
- Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a must-have holiday side dish enjoyed by millions.
- Consists of only five basic ingredients for ease of preparation.
- The dish can be tailored with various add-ins to suit family preferences.
- It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making holiday cooking less stressful.
- The casserole can also be cooked using alternative methods such as an air fryer or crockpot.
- The recipe has become synonymous with Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations.
- Nutritious options are available by using fresh or frozen green beans.
Introduction to Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is more than a dish; it’s a keeper of family memories and holiday cheer. It was born in the 1950s by Dorcas Reilly. This recipe quickly became a hit by mixing simple ingredients into a tasty side dish loved by all.
Every year, about 20 million families enjoy this classic green bean casserole at Thanksgiving. This makes it a beloved family recipe23.
The creamy texture, savory green beans, and crispy onion topping create a perfect mix. Originally called Green Bean Bake, it’s been a holiday favorite for over 60 years2
It brings joy to holiday tables, whether passed down through generations or welcomed by new families.
Ingredients Needed for the Classic Green Bean Casserole
To make the classic green bean casserole, you need a mix of key ingredients. This recipe is great for holidays or family dinners. It’s loved for its simple yet tasty flavor.
Essential Ingredients
- Green Beans: You’ll need two 14.5 oz. cans of cut green beans for this recipe, providing that classic texture and taste.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Use a 10-3/4 oz. can of Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, which gives the casserole its creamy consistency.
- Milk: Three-quarters of a cup of whole milk helps to enrich the sauce.
- French Fried Onions: A generous 1-1/3 cups of crispy fried onions adds both flavor and crunch, making the dish truly delightful.
- Baking Temperature: Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Optional Add-ins and Variations
To make your classic green bean casserole even better, try these optional add-ins:
- Chopped Red Peppers: These can bring a splash of color and a pop of flavor to the dish.
- Cheddar Cheese: Stir in half a cup for a creamy twist or sprinkle more on top before baking.
- Bacon: Incorporating crumbled cooked bacon introduces a smoky essence that complements the other flavors.
- Alternative Soup Mixes: Experiment with cream of asparagus or cream of celery for a new taste.
- Nuts: For a crunchy alternative, you can substitute fried onions with toasted almonds.
This classic dish serves six people with total calories per serving around 145, making it a balanced option for holiday meals45. With these ingredients, you are well on your way to crafting the best green bean casserole that will surely impress your guests.
Preparation and Cooking Instructions
Start making the perfect campbell’s green bean casserole with these easy steps. This recipe is sure to make your holiday table shine.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
First, get all your ingredients ready. If you’re using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes. Then, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper in a big bowl until smooth.
Add the green beans and half of the fried onions to the bowl. Make sure everything is well mixed. Next, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Put the mix in a greased 3-quart casserole dish.
Bake for 25 minutes. Then, take it out, stir it, and add the rest of the fried onions. Put it back in the oven for 5 more minutes to get a golden top.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you don’t have oven space, try making it in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer, put the mix in a dish, and cook at 350°F for 10 minutes. Add onions for the last 2-3 minutes. You can also make it ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours or freeze it for 2 weeks. This is great for busy holidays.
This recipe makes 6 to 12 servings, perfect for any party. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 50 minutes to cook. Each serving has 160 calories, 10g of fat, and 3g of protein. It’s a tasty addition to any meal678.
Nutritional Information of Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Knowing the nutritional facts of Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is key for holiday meals. It’s a festive side that also offers dietary benefits. A serving has about 232 calories, 16g of fat, and 624mg of sodium9. For a lighter choice, a healthier version has 77 calories, 2.0g of fat, and 138mg of sodium9.
Calories and Macronutrients
The classic green bean casserole is a good pick for calories and macronutrients. It has a mix of ingredients for a balanced profile. A standard serving includes:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 232 |
| Total Fat | 16g |
| Sodium | 624mg |
| Protein | 2-3g |
This makes it a good choice for nutritional info at gatherings10.
Vitamins and Minerals Content
The casserole is also rich in vitamins and minerals good for health. It offers:
- Vitamin A: 12% of daily needs
- Vitamin C: 21% of daily needs
- Calcium: about 4% of daily value
- Iron: about 4% of daily value
The green bean base is a great source of essential nutrients. This makes the best green bean casserole a nutritious holiday choice9. Adding almonds on top boosts flavor and adds heart-healthy fats9.
Historical Background of Green Bean Casserole
The story of Campbell’s green bean casserole begins in the 1950s. In 1955, Dorcas Reilly created this recipe in Campbell’s test kitchen. She wanted to make a dish that was easy and tasty for busy homemakers.
This casserole quickly became a favorite, especially at Thanksgiving. Today, it’s enjoyed in about 20 million dinners each year1112.
The recipe combines green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. It used canned ingredients, which were popular at the time. About 40% of Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup sales come from green bean casserole recipes during holidays12.
A survey in 2000 showed 44% of people loved it as a veggie side. This shows it’s a big part of American holiday traditions13
In 2002, the green bean casserole was honored in the National Inventors Hall of Fame. It’s a symbol of how food and history come together in American families. It’s celebrated as much as football and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade13.
With its fascinating history and lasting popularity, Campbell’s green bean casserole is a beloved holiday dish.
Why Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a Holiday Favorite
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a favorite at holiday meals in the United States. Over 20 million Americans enjoy it on Thanksgiving. It’s a holiday favorite for many families14.
Dorcas Reilly created the recipe in 1955. It’s loved for its simplicity and taste15. With just six ingredients, including cream of mushroom soup and French-fried onions, it’s easy to make. Even beginners can help out15.
The casserole is more than just food; it’s a family tradition. Families add their own twist, making it special. Interestingly, 40% of Cream of Mushroom Soup sales are for green bean casserole14.
It’s a staple on Thanksgiving tables, loved by many. Families also like to make it their own, adding new flavors. Despite new cooking trends, the classic casserole remains a favorite15.
Tips for Making the Best Green Bean Casserole
Making a great green bean casserole needs focus and avoiding common errors. Follow these tips to make your dish stand out. A few key suggestions can help you create a holiday favorite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t overcook the green beans. They should be tender but still firm, especially if they’re fresh. When making the sauce, let it simmer for 5-6 minutes to get the flavors right16.
Make sure to stir the mixture well. This ensures the fried onions and other ingredients are spread out evenly. Check the cooking time; bake it for 20 minutes at 375°F for the right texture16. The casserole should have just enough sauce to coat the beans well. If it’s too watery, you can thicken it with more flour16.
Storage and Reheating Suggestions
For storing leftovers, use an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can assemble the casserole two days ahead and store it in the fridge17. If you freeze it, don’t add the fried onions until you’re ready to serve. When reheating, thaw it overnight and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes before adding onions for extra crunch16.
If you’re reheating the assembled casserole, cover it with foil and bake for about 30 minutes until it’s hot17.
Serving Suggestions for Your Holiday Table
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a great choice for your holiday table. It goes well with turkey, ham, or roast beef, making your meal even better. To make it look festive, serve it in a special casserole dish. Add crispy fried onions or fresh herbs like thyme for color and a nice smell.
For a complete holiday feast, add classic sides to your casserole. Here are some ideas:
- Mashed potatoes for a creamy texture
- Cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness
- Stuffing loaded with herbs and spices
- Roasted carrots for additional color
For families who like to make their meals special, you can add crispy bacon, cheese, or red pepper flakes. This makes the green bean casserole a hit with guests. Make sure to serve it hot to keep it perfect, as it can get soggy if it sits too long18. It takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to cook19.
Conclusion
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a beloved classic holiday side dish. It captures the heart of family gatherings and festive celebrations. Since 1955, it has become a staple in around 30 million homes during Thanksgiving20.
Its simplicity is key, needing just canned green beans, mushroom soup, and fried onions. This makes it easy for everyone to help out without stress21.
This casserole’s lasting appeal is not just in its taste. It also creates wonderful memories for families. Whether it’s the traditional version or a creative twist, it’s a favorite at holiday meals20.
When you’re with your loved ones, Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole brings back cherished traditions. It’s a side dish that adds to the joy of being together. Every bite is a celebration of family and American holiday traditions21.