Simple Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

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This classic holiday staple has earned its place on dinner tables across generations, and for good reason. Simple Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole brings comfort and flavor in every creamy, crispy bite. With tender green beans, a rich mushroom sauce, and that irresistible topping of golden fried onions, this dish is a nostalgic crowd-pleaser that takes minimal effort to pull off.

Perfect for Thanksgiving, Sunday dinners, or even as a weeknight side, this casserole is all about convenience without sacrificing taste. The iconic cream of mushroom soup from Campbell’s creates the luscious base, while canned or fresh green beans add a satisfying crunch. Top it off with crispy fried onions, and you’ve got a cozy, fuss-free side dish that wins every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Simple Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

• Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples, making this an incredibly easy recipe to throw together.
• Quick Prep Time: It comes together in just a few minutes before it heads to the oven.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy, savory, and topped with crispy onions—what’s not to love?
• Perfect for Gatherings: This casserole feeds a crowd and is a guaranteed hit at potlucks and holiday meals.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment)

• Mixing Bowl: Needed to combine the green beans, soup, and milk evenly. A large bowl makes tossing easier.
• Baking Dish (1½ to 2 qt): Ensures even cooking and the perfect casserole thickness. Ceramic or glass works best.
• Oven: A conventional oven set to 350°F will bake the dish to bubbling perfection.
• Spatula or Spoon: Ideal for mixing ingredients without breaking the green beans.
• Measuring Cups: To get precise amounts of milk and other ingredients.

Each of these tools contributes to creating a well-balanced and evenly baked casserole. Skimping on the right size dish or not mixing thoroughly can affect both texture and taste.

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Preparation Tips

Use French-style green beans for a more tender texture, or go with fresh green beans if you prefer a slight crunch. If using fresh or frozen green beans, blanch them briefly before mixing to ensure they cook fully in the oven. Stir the mushroom soup and milk together until completely smooth before combining with the beans to avoid clumps. Lastly, don’t add all the crispy onions at once—mix some into the casserole and reserve the rest for topping so they stay crispy and golden after baking.

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Ingredients for this Simple Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole

• 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup
• 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2% preferred for creaminess)
• 1 tsp soy sauce (optional, for added umami)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 4 cups cooked cut green beans (canned, drained; frozen, thawed; or fresh, blanched)
• 1 1/3 cups French fried onions (divided)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms for extra texture
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist
• Dash of garlic powder for more depth

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Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready while you mix the ingredients. A properly preheated oven ensures the casserole bakes evenly and reaches that golden, bubbling stage.

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Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, milk, soy sauce, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

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Step 3: Add the Green Beans and Onions

Fold in the green beans and 2/3 cup of the French fried onions. Stir gently to coat all the beans evenly without crushing them.

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Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture into a 1 1/2 to 2-quart baking dish. Spread evenly so the surface is flat, allowing for an even bake and crisp topping later.

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Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 minutes. You’re looking for the soup to bubble slightly and the surface to firm up.

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Step 6: Add Final Crispy Onion Topping

After 25 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup of French fried onions evenly over the top.

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Step 7: Final Bake

Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.

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Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Serve warm as a side dish, and watch it disappear fast!

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Notes

For best results, use French-cut green beans if you enjoy a softer texture. If you’re going the fresh route, make sure to blanch them first so they bake fully. The creaminess of the casserole can be adjusted by using less or more milk, depending on your preference. Mixing some of the fried onions into the base gives you a flavorful crunch inside and out.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the preheat: A cold oven delays cooking time and affects texture.
• Overmixing the beans: This can cause them to break apart and lose visual appeal.
• Adding all onions at once: They’ll get soggy during baking. Always reserve some for the final topping.
• Not draining canned beans: Extra moisture can make the casserole watery.
• Using low-fat milk without adjusting: It may result in a thinner sauce unless you slightly reduce the amount.

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Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes until hot, or microwave individual portions. If the topping has softened, you can sprinkle a few fresh fried onions on top before reheating to regain that crunch. Avoid freezing this casserole, as the texture may suffer, particularly the crispy onions.

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Estimated Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: ~180 kcal
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 5mg
• Sodium: 530mg
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?

Yes, just blanch them first to soften slightly before baking.

What can I substitute for Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup?

You can use any brand of condensed cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version with a roux and sautéed mushrooms.

Can this be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just add the fried onions on top before baking.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

It can be! Just make sure the mushroom soup and fried onions are free from meat-based additives.

How do I keep the fried onions crispy?

Add only half to the mix and reserve the rest for topping in the final 5 minutes of baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use a larger baking dish and increase baking time by 5–10 minutes.

What type of green beans work best?

French-style or cut green beans, either canned, frozen (thawed), or fresh (blanched).

Can I add cheese to this casserole?

Yes! A little shredded cheddar mixed into the base adds a delicious cheesy twist.

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Conclusion

Simple Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is more than a side dish—it’s a timeless classic that brings flavor, comfort, and a touch of nostalgia to any meal. Whether it’s the holiday season or just another weekday dinner, this dish is a reliable go-to. With minimal prep and a big payoff in flavor, it’s no wonder it has stood the test of time. Keep it traditional or get creative with add-ins—either way, you’re in for a creamy, crispy treat.

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