Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a timeless holiday side dish made with tender green beans, creamy condensed mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and crispy French fried onions. With just five basic ingredients, this classic casserole is easy to prepare and brings comforting, familiar flavors to the dinner table.
Whether you’re planning Thanksgiving dinner, preparing a Christmas feast, or looking for a simple vegetable side for a weeknight meal, this recipe is a dependable favorite. The creamy sauce coats every green bean, while the crunchy onion topping adds the perfect finishing touch.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can bake it in a traditional oven or use an air fryer to save valuable oven space during busy holiday cooking. Both methods deliver a warm, creamy casserole with a golden, crispy onion topping.
Why You’ll Love Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
- Only five basic ingredients: You need condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, green beans, and French fried onions.
- Quick and easy: With just 5 minutes of preparation and a short cooking time, this recipe is ideal for busy holiday meals.
- Creamy and crunchy: The smooth mushroom sauce pairs beautifully with the crispy onion topping.
- Two cooking methods: Choose the oven or air fryer depending on your available equipment and kitchen space.
- Perfect for Thanksgiving: This traditional casserole complements turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and other holiday favorites.
- Easy to customize: Add bacon, cheese, or a different condensed soup to create your own variation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This classic green bean casserole relies on a handful of simple ingredients that work together to create its signature flavor and texture.
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup: One 10.5-ounce can forms the creamy base of the casserole. It provides the traditional mushroom flavor and helps bind the ingredients together.
- Milk: Half a cup thins the condensed soup and creates a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Soy sauce: One teaspoon adds savory umami flavor and balances the richness of the mushroom soup.
- Cut green beans: Four cups of green beans provide the main ingredient. You can use canned, frozen, or fresh green beans depending on your preference.
- French fried onions: One and one-third cups add the classic crunchy topping. Some are mixed into the casserole, while the remainder is added near the end of cooking.
- Black pepper: A quarter teaspoon, or to taste, adds a little seasoning. Additional salt usually isn’t necessary because the soup and soy sauce already contain sodium.
Equipment
Gather these kitchen essentials before you begin:
- 9 × 9-inch casserole dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander, if using canned green beans
- Oven or air fryer
For the air fryer method, make sure your baking dish fits comfortably inside the basket and can be removed safely after cooking.
How to Make Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
The preparation is the same whether you choose the oven or air fryer. First, combine the ingredients, then cook the casserole using your preferred method.
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly spray a 9 × 9-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
If you’re using an air fryer, select an oven-safe dish that fits inside your air fryer basket with enough room to handle it safely.
Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans
Choose your preferred type of green beans:
- Canned green beans: Drain them thoroughly in a colander before using.
- Frozen green beans: They can be used without thawing, according to the original recipe.
- Fresh green beans: Wash them, trim the stem ends, and cut them into pieces. Blanch them in boiling water for about 2 minutes, then drain well.
Proper preparation helps prevent excess moisture from thinning the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk.
Stir until the mixture is smooth and the lumps have disappeared. Add the soy sauce and mix again until everything is evenly combined.
The sauce should be creamy and easy to stir, with the soy sauce adding a subtle savory depth.
Step 4: Combine the Green Beans and Onions
Add the prepared green beans to the bowl.
Stir in approximately two-thirds of a cup of French fried onions and the black pepper. Mix gently until the beans are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Reserve the remaining fried onions for the topping.
Step 5: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Pour the green bean mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
Spread it into an even layer so the sauce and green beans are distributed throughout the dish.
Step 6: Cook in the Air Fryer
If using an air fryer, cook the casserole at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Carefully remove the dish and stir the mixture to make sure the center is heating evenly. Smooth the top, then sprinkle the remaining French fried onions over the casserole.
Return it to the air fryer and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until the onions are golden brown.
Use an appropriate heat-resistant tool or gloves when removing the hot dish.
Step 7: Cook in the Oven
If using a conventional oven, preheat it to 350°F.
Bake the casserole for 25 minutes, then carefully remove it and stir to ensure the center is hot. Spread the mixture evenly again and sprinkle the remaining French fried onions over the top.
Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, until the onions are golden and crispy.
If your oven is crowded with other holiday dishes, the casserole may need additional cooking time. Check that the center is hot before serving.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Remove the casserole from the oven or air fryer and let it rest briefly.
Serve warm while the mushroom sauce is creamy and the fried onion topping is crisp. This classic side dish pairs especially well with roast turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy.
Tips for the Best Green Bean Casserole
- Drain canned green beans thoroughly: Excess liquid can make the sauce watery.
- Don’t add extra salt automatically: Condensed mushroom soup and soy sauce already contribute a significant amount of sodium. Taste before deciding whether additional seasoning is needed.
- Mix the sauce until smooth: Combining the soup and milk thoroughly helps create a consistent texture.
- Reserve the fried onions: Mixing some onions into the casserole adds flavor, while adding the rest near the end preserves their crunch.
- Check the center before serving: If you’re cooking several dishes at once, the casserole may take longer to heat through.
- Choose the right air fryer dish: A dish that fits too tightly inside the basket can be difficult to remove safely.
- Watch the topping: French fried onions can brown quickly, especially in an air fryer, so check them during the final minutes of cooking.
- Prepare the ingredients ahead: Drain the beans and mix the sauce in advance to make assembly faster on a busy holiday.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
One of the reasons this classic casserole remains popular is how easily it can be adapted.
Canned, Frozen, or Fresh Green Beans
Canned green beans are convenient and provide the soft texture traditionally associated with this dish.
Frozen green beans can be used without thawing, according to the original instructions. Fresh green beans should be blanched in boiling water for about 2 minutes before being added to the sauce.
Add Crispy Bacon
For a smoky variation, cook bacon until crisp, crumble it, and sprinkle it over the casserole along with the French fried onions.
Bacon adds a savory flavor that pairs well with the creamy mushroom sauce.
Make It Cheesy
If you enjoy cheesy casseroles, stir some of your favorite shredded cheese into the green bean mixture and sprinkle additional cheese over the top before cooking.
Cheddar is a popular option, but you can use another cheese that melts well.
Try a Different Condensed Soup
Cream of mushroom soup provides the traditional flavor, but you can experiment with other condensed soups. Cream of celery, cream of asparagus, and cheddar cheese soup are possible alternatives.
Keep in mind that changing the soup will alter the flavor of the finished casserole.
Use Almonds Instead of Fried Onions
For a different topping, use almonds instead of French fried onions. They offer a nutty flavor and a little crunch, although the finished casserole will no longer have the classic onion topping.
Can You Make Green Bean Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! This casserole can be assembled ahead of time, making it convenient for Thanksgiving and other large meals.
Follow these steps:
- Prepare the green beans and creamy soup mixture as directed.
- Stir in the reserved portion of the fried onions that goes inside the casserole.
- Transfer the mixture to the dish you plan to cook it in, or store it in a separate bowl.
- Cover tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.
- Add the remaining fried onions during the final stage of cooking.
Because the mixture will be cold, it will take longer to heat through. The original recipe recommends approximately 15 minutes in the air fryer or 35 minutes in the oven for a casserole coming directly from the refrigerator. Check the center to make sure it is hot before serving, and add the reserved onion topping near the end.
How to Store and Reheat Green Bean Casserole
Refrigerator: Allow leftovers to cool, then place them in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Keep the casserole refrigerated and reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Freezer: The casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. For better results, freeze it without the fried onion topping, since the onions will lose their crispness after thawing.
Thawing: Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Oven reheating: Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F for approximately 20 minutes. Stir it, then bake uncovered for another 10 minutes or until the center is hot. Add fresh French fried onions and bake for another 5 minutes to brown the topping.
Reheating time may vary depending on the quantity and depth of the casserole, so always check that it is hot throughout.
A Brief History of Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
The original green bean casserole was developed by Dorcas Reilly, a chef in Campbell’s Test Kitchen, during the 1950s.
Initially created as an everyday side dish, it became a popular Thanksgiving tradition during the 1960s. Its simple ingredients, creamy texture, and crispy onion topping helped make it a familiar favorite on holiday tables across the United States.
Today, the classic recipe remains popular because it is easy to prepare, requires few ingredients, and pairs well with traditional holiday meals.
What to Serve with Green Bean Casserole
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a versatile side dish that pairs well with many family meals.
- Roast turkey: A traditional Thanksgiving pairing that complements the creamy mushroom sauce.
- Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy potatoes are perfect alongside the savory casserole.
- Cornbread stuffing: Add another classic holiday side to the dinner table.
- Roasted butternut squash: Its natural sweetness balances the savory mushroom flavor.
- Baked mac and cheese: A comforting addition to a holiday spread.
- Roasted chicken: Serve the casserole as part of a simple family dinner.
- Gravy and cranberry sauce: These traditional accompaniments round out a Thanksgiving plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole in an air fryer?
Yes. Use a suitable baking dish that fits inside your air fryer. Cook the casserole at 350°F for 10 minutes, stir, add the remaining French fried onions, and cook for another 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
Can I use fresh or frozen green beans?
Yes. Fresh green beans should be trimmed and blanched in boiling water for about 2 minutes before using. Frozen green beans can be used without thawing, according to the recipe.
How many cans of green beans do I need?
The recipe uses 4 cups of cut green beans. This is approximately two cans of green beans or one 16-ounce package of frozen green beans. If using fresh beans, the recipe lists approximately 1 1/2 pounds.
Why shouldn’t I add extra salt?
The condensed cream of mushroom soup and soy sauce already provide considerable sodium. Additional salt is usually unnecessary. If you prefer less sodium, use unsalted cream of mushroom soup and reduced-sodium soy sauce.
Can I make the casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Combine the green beans, sauce, pepper, and the portion of fried onions mixed into the casserole. Refrigerate the mixture until you’re ready to cook it. Allow extra cooking time because the casserole will be cold.
Can I freeze green bean casserole?
Yes. Freeze the casserole for up to 3 months, preferably without the fried onion topping. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, then add fresh fried onions near the end of cooking.
How do I keep the fried onions crispy?
Reserve some of the fried onions and add them near the end of cooking. This keeps them from becoming too soft in the creamy sauce.
Can I add cheese or bacon?
Yes. Cooked crumbled bacon can be sprinkled over the casserole with the onions. You can also mix shredded cheese into the green bean mixture and add more on top for a cheesy variation.
What size baking dish should I use?
The recipe card specifies a 9 × 9-inch casserole dish. For the air fryer method, use an oven-safe dish that fits comfortably inside your particular air fryer basket.
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole Recipe Card
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes in the air fryer or approximately 30 minutes in the oven
Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes in the air fryer or 35 minutes in the oven, excluding preheating
Servings: 6
Course: Side Dish
Method: Oven-Baked or Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 4 cups cut green beans (approximately 2 cans, one 16-ounce package of frozen beans, or 1 1/2 pounds fresh beans)
- 1 1/3 cups crispy French fried onions, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Instructions
- Spray a 9 × 9-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- If using fresh green beans, wash, trim, and blanch them in boiling water for about 2 minutes. If using canned beans, drain them thoroughly. Frozen beans can be used without thawing.
- In a bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until smooth, then mix in the soy sauce.
- Add the green beans, approximately 2/3 cup of French fried onions, and black pepper. Stir until evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly.
- Air fryer method: Cook at 350°F for 10 minutes. Stir, add the remaining fried onions, and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until golden brown.
- Oven method: Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. Stir and check that the center is hot. Add the remaining fried onions and bake for another 5 minutes, until golden brown.
- Let the casserole rest briefly and serve warm.
Recipe Notes
- Extra salt is usually unnecessary because the condensed soup and soy sauce already contain sodium.
- Unsalted condensed soup and reduced-sodium soy sauce can be used if desired.
- If the oven is crowded with other holiday dishes, the casserole may need additional cooking time.
- For make-ahead preparation, refrigerate the assembled mixture and add the reserved fried onions near the end of cooking.
- For freezing, omit the crispy onion topping and add fresh onions when reheating.
Nutrition Information
Per serving, based on the source recipe:
- Calories: 145 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2 g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
- Sodium: 532 mg
- Potassium: 253 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Vitamin A: 539 IU
- Vitamin C: 9 mg
- Calcium: 55 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary depending on the brands and ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole is a classic holiday side dish for good reason. Its creamy mushroom sauce, tender green beans, and crispy French fried onion topping create a comforting combination that works beautifully alongside turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy.
Whether you bake it in the oven or prepare it in the air fryer, this easy recipe is a convenient choice for Thanksgiving and everyday family meals. Keep the ingredients simple, add the crunchy onions near the end, and serve it warm for a timeless favorite everyone can enjoy.