The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a delightful tradition: the serving of Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole. This dish has a firm place on the dinner tables of many families, especially during festive gatherings. This comforting casserole combines simple ingredients to create an irresistible flavor and texture that appeals to all ages. In this article, we’ll teach you how to prepare this classic dish from start to finish, offer serving suggestions, storage tips, and creative variations to suit any palate.
Why Make This Recipe
Creating Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is not only about nourishment; it’s about building memories around the dining table. This recipe is easy, quick, and almost foolproof, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The use of condensed soup provides rich creaminess, while the crispy French fried onions add a delicious crunch that balances well with the green beans.
Furthermore, this casserole is quite versatile. It can serve as a tasty side dish for Thanksgiving dinners, family gatherings, or any other occasion where comfort food is welcome. By making this dish, you also honor a classic American tradition that many have cherished for decades.
How to Prepare Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Follow these detailed steps to create a perfectly creamy and crispy Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole.
Ingredients
- 1 can condensed Cream of Mushroom soup (10.5 ounces): This soup serves as the base of the casserole, providing creaminess and umami flavor.
- 1/2 cup milk: Milk helps to dilute the soup to a smoother consistency and enhances the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: This adds depth to the flavor, balancing the richness of the soup.
- 4 cups cut green beans: You can use fresh, canned, or frozen beans, depending on your preference.
- Fresh green beans: Requires cleaning and blanching.
- Canned green beans: Must be drained.
- Frozen green beans: Should be thawed beforehand for even cooking.
- 1 1/3 cups crispy French fried onions: Adds crunch and flavor; they’re essential for that classic texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper to taste: A small amount enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish.
Step-by-step Instructions
- Prepare Your Casserole Dish: Start by spraying a 9×9 inch casserole dish with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes for easier cleanup afterwards.
- Prepare the Green Beans:
- If using fresh green beans: Rinse them under cold water, trim the ends, and cut them into 1 to 2-inch pieces. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the green beans, and blanch for 2 minutes to preserve their bright color and crunch. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- If using canned green beans: Open the cans, pour the beans into a colander and let them drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in your casserole.
- If using frozen green beans: Simply thaw them at room temperature or in the microwave before using.
- Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed soup and milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Add Flavor Enhancers: Mix in the soy sauce, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the liquid. This step is important because it adds a savory depth to the creamy mixture.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the green beans to the soup mixture.
- Fold in 2/3 cup of crispy fried onions and sprinkle the pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly, ensuring the green beans are well coated with the soup mixture.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Carefully pour the green bean mixture into the sprayed casserole dish and spread it out evenly. This ensures all parts of the casserole cook evenly.
- Bake the Casserole:
- For Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 10 minutes, then stir the casserole. Top with remaining crispy fried onions and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- For Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25 minutes, stir the casserole, then sprinkle the remaining onions on top. Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the onions are golden brown.
- Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot, allowing the flavors to meld together while the crispy onions provide a delightful crunch.
How to Serve Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Serving Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole can be as creative or traditional as you wish. This dish pairs wonderfully with:
- Roasted turkey or chicken: The creamy texture of the casserole complements the savory flavors of poultry, making it a classic Thanksgiving side.
- Honey-glazed ham: The sweet notes of ham balance the rich casserole nicely, offering a delightful counterpoint.
- Beef dishes: Whether it’s meatloaf or steak, the casserole adds a comforting herbal flavor.
- Vegetarian meals: Serve it alongside a hearty grain salad or stuffed peppers for a nutritious vegetarian meal.
This dish can be enjoyed at seasonal holidays, potlucks, family picnics, or even as a cozy weeknight dinner side.
How to Store Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Proper storage of any leftovers is crucial to minimize waste and keep food safe:
- Refrigeration: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing it. Place it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to store it for a more extended period, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. For freezing before baking, prepare and assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. To bake, simply remove it from the freezer and bake directly; however, you may need to add additional baking time. For leftovers, ensure they are completely cooled, then transfer to a freezer-safe container, where they can also last up to 2 months.
- Anti-Waste Tips: Reuse excess casserole in other dishes! Mix it with pasta for a casserole-inspired lasagna, or blend it into a creamy soup for a unique twist.
Tips for Mastering Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Creating the perfect Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole can be achieved with some careful attention and a few tricks:
- Avoid Overcooking the Green Beans: If using fresh beans, blanch them only for 2 minutes to retain their crispness.
- Watch the Onions: The key is to ensure the fried onions are added midway through cooking; this helps prevent them from becoming overly crunchy or burned.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste the mixture before baking. If it feels bland, consider adding salt, garlic powder, or even a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Avoid Clumping Together: When mixing, gently fold the green beans in to prevent them from breaking.
- Consider Homemade Elements: If you’re feeling ambitious, consider making your crispy fried onions at home. Thinly slice onions, dip them in a flour mixture, and deep fry for a fresh touch.
Variations
While the classic recipe is delightful on its own, experimenting with variations can bring new life to Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole:
- Cheesy Variation: Add 1 cup of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, into the mixture before baking for a gooey upgrade.
- Healthier Options: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream of mushroom soup for a lighter version, or substitute fresh vegetables like carrots or asparagus.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give your casserole an exciting heat.
- Vegan Adaptation: Replace the cream of mushroom soup with a vegan alternative and use plant-based milk to make this dish suitable for vegans.
- Seasonal Ingredients: In fall, consider incorporating spices like nutmeg or cinnamon for an autumnal flavor profile.
FAQ
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, it may require a few extra minutes of cooking time.
2. Will using frozen green beans change the texture?
While frozen green beans can slightly alter the texture, they will still work well for the casserole. Make sure to thaw and drain any excess water to avoid a soggy dish.
3. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can create a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, cream, and broth as an alternative.
4. How can I prevent the casserole from getting too liquidy?
Be sure to drain canned green beans thoroughly and use the appropriate amount of milk. If you are concerned about consistency, you can reduce the amount of milk used.
5. How can I make my casserole crispy?
To achieve a crispy topping, ensure to add crispy fried onions during the last few minutes of cooking time. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
By following these tips and insights, you will navigate the preparation of Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole with ease. This dish is sure to become a staple on your holiday table and during gatherings throughout the year. Bon appétit!