Every family gathering has that special dish that brings everyone together. For millions of American families, Campbell’s green bean casserole is that dish. It turns simple meals into cherished memories.
Imagine the smell of crispy fried onions in your kitchen. It’s a sign of a delicious side dish that connects you to Thanksgiving traditions. With just five simple ingredients, even beginners can make this beloved casserole. It’s a mix of nostalgia and nutritious green beans.
Every year, about 20 million of these casseroles are served at dinners. This shows that some recipes are truly timeless. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this casserole is perfect. It’s a mix of convenience and comfort.
Key Takeaways
- A classic American recipe loved by millions
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes
- Serves 6 people perfectly
- Only 5 basic ingredients required
- Low-calorie option with approximately 145 kcal per serving
- Versatile dish suitable for various dietary needs
The History Behind Campbell’s Iconic Green Bean Casserole
Every family tradition has a story, and the Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is no exception. This beloved holiday side dish has a rich history that spans decades. It has become a quintessential Thanksgiving casserole in American kitchens.
Dorcas Reilly’s 1955 Creation
In 1955, Dorcas Reilly, a talented manager at Campbell’s Test Kitchen in Camden, New Jersey, crafted what would become a culinary icon. Her original recipe, initially called “Green Bean Bake,” was designed to be simple, delicious, and convenient for home cooks.
“Necessity is the mother of invention, and sometimes, culinary magic happens in the most unexpected places.”
Evolution of an American Classic
The green bean casserole quickly captured the hearts of American families. By the early 2000s, it had become such a cultural phenomenon that it was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in Akron, Ohio.
- Created in 1955 at Campbell’s headquarters
- Viewed 4 million times each Thanksgiving Day
- Served at 20 million Thanksgiving dinners annually
Why It Became a Holiday Staple
The dish’s popularity stems from its simplicity and comfort. In an era when fresh ingredients were less accessible, this casserole offered a convenient and tasty solution for home cooks looking to create a memorable family tradition.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1955 | Original Recipe Created |
| 2002 | Inducted into National Inventors Hall of Fame |
| 2005 | Recognized as a Thanksgiving Cultural Icon |
From a simple recipe to a national culinary tradition, the Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole continues to bring families together, one delicious bite at a time.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Casserole
To make the ultimate green bean casserole, you need the right ingredients. Choosing quality components is key to a delicious dish.
The main ingredients for this classic recipe are:
- Fresh or frozen green beans
- Campbell’s condensed cream of mushroom soup
- French’s crispy fried onions
- Milk
- Seasonings like soy sauce and black pepper
When picking green beans, you have choices. Fresh green beans give the best taste and texture. You’ll need about 1½ pounds for the recipe. Or, you can use 2 cans of drained green beans or 24 ounces of frozen ones.
“The secret to an amazing green bean casserole is using high-quality ingredients and treating them with care.” – Culinary Expert
The cream of mushroom soup is the creamy base. It holds everything together. Use one 10.5-ounce can for the right consistency and flavor. Add a splash of milk and a dash of soy sauce for extra taste.
The crispy fried onions are the dish’s highlight. French’s fried onions make a golden, crunchy topping. A tip: Save some onions for the final baking to get them extra crispy.
Step-by-Step Guide to Campbells Green Bean Casserole Dish
Making the perfect campbells green bean casserole is easy. This simple recipe will guide you through each step. You’ll end up with a dish that will wow your family and friends.
Preparation Tips
Start by getting all your ingredients and tools ready. For this easy recipe, you’ll need:
- 4 cans of green beans (59 ounces total)
- 2 cans of cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces each)
- ⅔ cup evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups french fried onions
Cooking Instructions
Here’s how to make your campbells green bean casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F
- Mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper in a 1½-quart casserole dish
- Add green beans and stir well
- Sprinkle ⅔ cup of fried onions on top
- Bake for 25 minutes until it’s hot and bubbly
- Take it out of the oven, stir the bean mixture
- Top with the rest of the onions
- Bake for another 5 minutes until the onions are golden
Serving Suggestions
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This classic side dish is great for holidays or weeknights. Each serving has about 179 calories and is full of flavor.
“A delicious tradition that brings families together at the dinner table!” – Home Cooking Enthusiast
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits of Campbell’s green bean casserole
Green bean casserole is more than just a tasty dish. It also has some health benefits. Let’s explore the nutritional profile that makes it both delicious and somewhat good for you.
A standard serving of Campbell’s green bean casserole has a balanced nutritional breakdown:
- Calories: About 231 per serving
- Protein: 2-3 grams
- Total Fat: 16 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2 grams
Green beans are the real nutritional stars in this dish. They are packed with vitamins and minerals, including:
- Vitamin D: 1% Daily Value
- Calcium: 4% Daily Value
- Iron: 4% Daily Value
- Potassium: 4% Daily Value
While it’s tasty, it’s important to eat it in moderation. The dish has some sodium and saturated fat. To make it healthier, try using low-fat cream of mushroom soup or adding more fresh green beans.
“Nutrition isn’t about perfection, it’s about balance” – Unknown Chef
Green bean casserole can be part of a healthy diet when eaten in balance. The fresh green beans add important nutrients. This makes the classic dish a somewhat nutritious choice for your holiday meals.
Creative Variations and Upgrades
Want to make your Campbell’s green bean casserole dish stand out? These creative twists will turn it into a holiday showstopper. Impress your guests with new flavors.
Rosemary and Pancetta Sophistication
For a gourmet twist, try this elegant version:
- Dice 4 ounces of pancetta and cook until crisp
- Mince ½ teaspoon fresh rosemary
- Stir pancetta and rosemary into the green bean mixture
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon grated Pecorino Romano cheese before baking
Spicy Crunchy Jalapeño Twist
Add some heat to your holiday side dish with this zesty twist:
- Replace traditional French fried onions
- Top casserole with 1 cup crushed Jalapeño Kettle Brand® Potato Chips
- Add a spicy kick to your comfort food
Cheese Lovers’ Dream
For cheese lovers, this version is a dream come true:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shredded cheddar (mixed in) | 1/2 cup |
| Additional cheddar topping | 1/4 cup |
| Soy sauce | Omit |
These creative twists show the Campbell’s green bean casserole can be more than a holiday side dish. Try these options to find your new favorite twist on this classic comfort food.
Time-Saving Tips and Make-Ahead Instructions
Planning ahead makes holiday cooking stress-free. Your Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole can be prepped days before. This way, you’ll have more time for festive fun.
Advance Preparation Strategies
- Prepare the casserole up to 3 days before your event
- Store covered in the refrigerator
- Keep crispy onion topping separate until final baking
This easy casserole recipe is super flexible. You can prep most parts ahead of time. This means less stress in the kitchen.
Freezing and Storage Tips
| Storage Method | Duration | Recommended Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3 days | Cover tightly, do not add topping |
| Freezer | 1 month | Use freezer-safe dish, wrap securely |
“Preparation is the key to a relaxed holiday meal” – Culinary Experts
Before baking, take the casserole out of the fridge 30 minutes early. Add the crispy onion topping right before baking. This keeps it crunchy for your holiday side dish.
Reheating Recommendations
- Preheat oven to 350°F
- Cover casserole with foil to prevent drying
- Heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through
- Refresh onion topping in last 5 minutes of heating
Pro tip: Always check the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety. With these tips, you’ll make a tasty casserole with little effort.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Campbell’s green bean casserole is more than just a recipe. Many home cooks face challenges that can turn a great dish into a bad one.
Bean Preparation Challenges
Green beans are the main attraction in your casserole. But, if you prepare them wrong, it can mess up the whole dish. Canned green beans can make the dish mushy, while fresh ones need special care.
- Blanch fresh green beans for 2-3 minutes to keep them vibrant
- Drain canned green beans well to avoid a watery mess
- Go for frozen green beans (100% recommended) for the best texture
Seasoning and Flavor Balance
A bland green bean casserole can be a letdown. Getting the seasoning right is key to making it stand out.
- Use plenty of salt and pepper
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
- Don’t overdo it with the mushroom soup
Baking Temperature Secrets
Getting the temperature right is crucial for a perfect Campbell’s green bean casserole. Baking at the wrong temperature can burn the toppings or leave the ingredients raw.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F or less
- Add crispy toppings in the last 10 minutes
- Use fresh or high-quality fried onions
“The key to an amazing green bean casserole is paying attention to details.” – Culinary Expert
By steering clear of these common mistakes, you’ll make a green bean casserole that will wow your family and friends at your next gathering.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Keeping your easy casserole recipe fresh is key for enjoying leftovers. The right storage and reheating methods help keep your Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole tasty and moist.
Refrigeration Best Practices
Your comfort food can stay in the fridge for 3-4 days. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Use an airtight container
- Cool the casserole completely before storing
- Place in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking
Reheating Methods
Bring back your casserole’s great taste with these reheating tips:
| Method | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | 350°F | 20-30 minutes |
| Microwave | Medium | 2-3 minutes per serving |
Freezing Guidelines
Pro tip: Freeze your casserole for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in freezer-safe packaging to avoid freezer burn.
Remember: Always reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety!
By sticking to these storage and reheating tips, your green bean casserole will stay fresh and delicious. This makes meal prep easy and enjoyable.
Pairing Suggestions and Menu Planning
Planning the perfect holiday menu is key. Your Campbell’s green bean casserole can be the highlight of your family’s tradition. It pairs well with many main courses and side dishes. With over 20 million people making this dish each year, your meal can truly shine.
Holiday Menu Integration
When planning your Thanksgiving feast, consider these pairing options for your green bean casserole:
- Roasted turkey (classic pairing)
- Honey-glazed ham
- Herb-crusted prime rib
- Roasted chicken with rosemary
Wine Pairing Options
Enhance your dining experience with these wine choices that match your casserole’s rich flavors:
| Wine Type | Flavor Profile | Best Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Pinot Noir | Light, fruity | Turkey and casserole |
| Chardonnay | Buttery, smooth | Creamy casserole texture |
| Sauvignon Blanc | Crisp, acidic | Cuts through rich dishes |
Complementary Side Dishes
Complete your meal with these tasty sides that complement your green bean casserole:
- Cranberry sauce
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Cornbread stuffing
- Maple-glazed carrots
“A great meal is about creating memories and sharing love around the table” – Unknown
The secret to a memorable holiday meal is balance and careful planning. Your green bean casserole will surely become a beloved family tradition, bringing everyone closer together.
Conclusion
Your journey with this classic American recipe is just starting. Green bean casserole is more than a side dish. It’s a family tradition that brings generations together through comfort food. Since Dorcas Reilly created it in 1955, it’s been a staple at 21 million Thanksgiving tables every year.
By making this recipe your own, you’re embracing home cooking. You can follow the original recipe or try new twists. The essence of green bean casserole is about sharing meals, making memories, and celebrating togetherness.
As you keep improving your green bean casserole skills, remember it’s an art of love and creativity. Every time you make it, you’re keeping alive a beloved American tradition. Your kitchen is where magic happens, one casserole at a time.