Description
This irresistible Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole combines tender green beans with a creamy mushroom sauce and crispy fried onion topping for a classic, comforting side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Casserole
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk works best for creaminess)
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp soy sauce (adds depth without overpowering)
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (Campbell’s recommended)
- 4 cups green beans (fresh, frozen, or canned; thawed if frozen)
Topping
- 1 1/3 cups crispy fried onions (French’s brand is traditional; reserve some for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Green Beans: If using frozen green beans, thaw completely and drain excess liquid. For fresh beans, trim and cut into 2-inch pieces, then blanch briefly in salted boiling water before draining. Canned beans should be drained well. Preheat your oven to 350°F (or prepare your air fryer to 350°F).
- Divide Fried Onions: Measure out 1 1/3 cups of fried onions and split them into two portions — about 2/3 cup for mixing into the casserole and the remaining 1/3 cup reserved for topping. Keep the reserved portion in a small bowl to stay fresh and dry.
- Mix Cream Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and soy sauce until smooth and well combined. The soy sauce adds subtle umami to enhance the flavor without adding saltiness.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the prepared green beans, 2/3 cup of fried onions, and black pepper to the sauce. Gently fold ingredients together until green beans are evenly coated and onions are well distributed, taking care not to overmix to keep onions crispy.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the green bean mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish and spread evenly. Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes (or 10 minutes if using an air fryer) until bubbly around edges and heated through.
- Top and Final Bake: Remove casserole and stir gently to redistribute sauce. Spread reserved 1/3 cup of fried onions evenly on top. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes (or 2 minutes in air fryer) until onions turn golden and casserole bubbles gently, creating a creamy and crispy contrast.
Notes
- Use whole milk for a creamier texture; low-fat milk can be used but will alter richness.
- Blanch fresh green beans briefly to retain a bright color and crunch.
- The soy sauce is optional but highly recommended to enhance umami flavor.
- Keep reserved fried onions dry to maintain crispiness for the topping.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
