Campbells String Bean Casserole: A Classic Holiday Staple

campbells string bean casserole

The holidays are a time for connection, celebration, and food that warms the heart. Few dishes capture the spirit of togetherness better than Campbells String Bean Casserole. Imagine the smell of crispy onions mingling with creamy mushroom sauce as it wafts through the air—a simple yet irresistible combination that has graced dinner tables for generations.

Whether you grew up enjoying it at grandma's house or are discovering it for the first time, this green bean casserole is more than a recipe; it’s a culinary hug, bringing comfort with every bite. What makes it truly special? It has the magical ability to transform a handful of pantry staples into a dish that feels like home.

Let’s explore the endless possibilities of this timeless crowd-pleaser—because no holiday is complete without that golden, bubbling Campbell's green bean casserole at the center of the table.

A Tradition of Flavor and Simplicity

In 1955, Dorcas Reilly, a home economist at the Campbell’s test kitchen, created the original green bean casserole recipe. She wanted to design a dish that was simple yet flavorful, and above all, something that every home cook could easily make. What resulted was an instant hit. The simplicity of the dish, combined with its rich, creamy texture and crunchy topping, made it a go-to choice for family meals and holiday feasts.

The original recipe called for just five key ingredients: green beans, Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, milk, soy sauce, and French fried onions. These pantry staples could be found in most kitchens, making it a cost-effective and accessible dish for nearly every home cook. In fact, it quickly became a household name and continues to be a favorite on tables across the country today.

For another classic, comforting recipe, check out how to recreate a Double Big Mac at home with this step-by-step guide.

Why Campbells String Bean Casserole is a Holiday Essential?

There’s no question why Campbells String Bean Casserole remains a staple on holiday tables. Here are a few reasons why it’s an essential part of the season:

  • Easy to Make: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it’s the perfect dish to make when you’re juggling multiple holiday meals. It’s not time-consuming, allowing you to focus on other parts of the meal while still creating something that tastes like it took hours of preparation.
  • Deliciously Balanced: The creamy richness of the mushroom soup pairs perfectly with the crispy onions, creating a delicious balance of flavors and textures. The earthy green beans provide a satisfying backdrop, making each bite comforting and familiar.
  • Customizable: One of the best things about Campbell's green bean casserole is how easily you can personalize it. Whether you like your casserole extra cheesy, with a bit of garlic, or even a sprinkle of bacon for added flavor, there are countless ways to make it your own. Add shredded cheddar cheese, crushed garlic, or sautéed onions for a little extra flavor and flair.

But what really makes this casserole a holiday essential is its ability to bring people together. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a tradition. Its comforting, homey flavors evoke a sense of nostalgia for many, reminding us of family meals and special occasions shared with loved ones. Every holiday feast becomes a little brighter with this dish on the table.

Ingredients and Equipment You’ll Need

campbell's string bean casserole recipe

To make the perfect Campbell's String Bean Casserole recipe, gather the following:

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups cooked green beans (canned, frozen, or fresh)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 1 1/3 cups French fried onions

Equipment:

  • A large mixing bowl
  • 9×13-inch casserole dish
  • Oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Campbells String Bean Casserole

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Cuisine: American
  • Method: Baking

This dish is quick, simple, and packed with flavor. Let’s make it!

green bean casserole

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and half of the French fried onions. Stir in the cooked green beans until well coated.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
  4. Bake: Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
  5. Add Crispy Topping: Sprinkle the remaining French fried onions on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the onions are golden and crispy.
  6. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then serve warm.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Tips for the Perfect Campbells String Bean Casserole

green bean casserole recipe

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh or frozen green beans for a vibrant, crisp texture.
  • Add a Twist: For a richer flavor, use cream instead of milk or add shredded cheddar cheese to the mix.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and bake just before serving.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Campbells String Bean Casserole

While traditionally served as a side dish, there are many ways to enjoy this casserole:

  • As a Main Dish: Add cooked chicken or turkey for a hearty meal.
  • In a Wrap: Use leftovers in a tortilla with roasted vegetables for a quick lunch.
  • Topped on Potatoes: Use it as a topping for baked or mashed potatoes for a creamy twist.

Campbells String Bean Casserole is more than just a dish—it’s a beloved holiday tradition. Easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and always delicious, it’s the perfect addition to any festive table. Try it this season and see why it’s a classic at So Damn Delish now!

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Fresh green beans add a vibrant color and a slight crunch. Blanch them before mixing to ensure they’re tender.

Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Campbell’s offers vegetarian cream soups that work perfectly for this recipe. Simply swap them in.

Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the casserole without adding the fried onions on top. Cover and refrigerate. Add the onions just before baking.

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campbells string bean casserole

Campbells String Bean Casserole: A Classic Holiday Staple

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5 from 3 reviews

Whip up the Campbells String Bean Casserole with So Damn Delish! Creamy, crispy, and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect holiday side dish everyone loves.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups cooked green beans (canned, frozen, or fresh)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 1 1/3 cups French fried onions

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and half of the French fried onions. Stir in the cooked green beans until well coated.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
  4. Bake: Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
  5. Add Crispy Topping: Sprinkle the remaining French fried onions on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the onions are golden and crispy.
  6. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then serve warm.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh or frozen green beans for a vibrant, crisp texture.
  • Add a Twist: For a richer flavor, use cream instead of milk or add shredded cheddar cheese to the mix.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and bake just before serving.
  • Author: SoDamnDelish
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: 30 Min or Less
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

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Jen

"Hi, I'm Jen! Married to an awesome bearded dude named Beau. We live in Vero Beach, FL with our 3 cray-cray kiddos. We heart: fishing, salt water, and being outside. Here you’ll find DELISH recipes made with ingredients you actually know."

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