Last update images today Campbells Green Bean Casserole: A Holiday Staple
Campbell's Green Bean Casserole: A Holiday Staple
This week, let's dive into a beloved holiday classic: the Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe. It's a dish that evokes nostalgia and brings families together. This article will explore the history, recipe, variations, and tips for making the perfect green bean casserole. We'll also answer some frequently asked questions to ensure your casserole is a holiday hit! This recipe is perfect for home cooks of all levels, especially those looking for a comforting and easy side dish.
The Enduring Appeal of Campbell's Green Bean Casserole Recipe
The Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe holds a special place in many hearts. It's been a fixture on Thanksgiving and Christmas tables for generations, and for good reason. It's simple, delicious, and uses readily available ingredients. Its enduring popularity stems from its ease of preparation and the comforting flavors that remind us of home. The creamy mushroom soup, tender green beans, and crispy fried onions create a symphony of textures and tastes that are hard to resist. Thinking about the Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe brings back memories of family gatherings and shared meals, making it more than just a dish - it's a tradition.
A Brief History of the Campbell's Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Dorcas Reilly, a home economist at Campbell Soup Company, invented the Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe in 1955. Her assignment was to create a quick and easy recipe using ingredients that most households would have on hand. The resulting casserole quickly gained popularity and became a Thanksgiving staple. Reilly's creation proved to be a culinary masterpiece, simple yet satisfying, and quickly became a comfort food classic, forever linked with holiday celebrations. The Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and clever innovation.
The Classic Campbell's Green Bean Casserole Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to make your own classic? Here's the original Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell's Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) cut green beans, drained
- 1 1/3 cups French's Crispy Fried Onions, divided
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350?F (175?C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the Campbell's Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup, milk, and pepper.
- Stir in the drained green beans and 2/3 cup of the French's Crispy Fried Onions.
- Pour the mixture into a 1.5-quart casserole dish.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup of French's Crispy Fried Onions over the top.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the onions are golden brown.
- Let stand for a few minutes before serving. The Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe is easy to follow, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.
Variations on the Campbell's Green Bean Casserole Recipe
While the classic recipe is beloved, there are many ways to customize your Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe. Here are a few ideas:
- Cheese Please: Add shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Bacon Bliss: Crumble cooked bacon over the top for a smoky flavor.
- Garlic Goodness: Add minced garlic or garlic powder to the soup mixture for extra flavor.
- Mushroom Mania: Use fresh mushrooms sauteed in butter for a richer, earthier flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Healthier Version: Reduce the amount of sodium by using low sodium cream of mushroom soup or homemade cream of mushroom soup. Using fresh green beans is also a great healthy alternative, just make sure to blanch them before adding them to the recipe.
Feel free to experiment with your own favorite ingredients to create a unique Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe that reflects your personal taste.
Tips for the Perfect Campbell's Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Here are a few tips to ensure your Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe turns out perfectly every time:
- Don't overcook the green beans: Overcooked green beans will be mushy. Drain them well to avoid a watery casserole.
- Use good-quality crispy fried onions: The French's brand is the standard, but feel free to try other brands.
- Bake until bubbly: Make sure the casserole is heated through and bubbly before adding the remaining onions.
- Don't burn the onions: Keep a close eye on the onions during the final baking time to prevent them from burning.
- Let it rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Following these tips will help you create the perfect Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Campbell's Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Q: Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can! Blanch the fresh green beans for a few minutes until tender-crisp before adding them to the casserole. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Q: Can I make the Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the crispy fried onions just before baking.
Q: Can I freeze the Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe?
A: While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly. It's best to bake it fresh for the best results. If freezing, do so before adding the crispy fried onions.
Q: Can I use different types of soup?
A: While cream of mushroom is traditional, you can experiment with other cream-based soups like cream of celery or cream of chicken.
Q: What can I use instead of crispy fried onions?
A: If you're not a fan of crispy fried onions, you can use toasted breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even potato chips for a similar crispy topping.
By addressing these common questions, we hope to make your Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe experience even smoother.
The Lasting Legacy of Campbell's Green Bean Casserole Recipe
The Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe is more than just a side dish; it's a symbol of tradition, family, and comfort. Its simplicity and deliciousness have made it a holiday staple for generations, and its versatility allows for endless customization. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with new flavors, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. The Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe continues to evolve and adapt, ensuring its place on holiday tables for years to come.
Summary: What is the classic Campbell's Green Bean Casserole recipe, can you use fresh green beans, and can you freeze it? The classic recipe includes cream of mushroom soup, milk, pepper, green beans, and crispy fried onions. Yes, you can use fresh green beans (blanch them first). Freezing is possible but may affect the texture.
Keywords: Campbell's Green Bean Casserole Recipe, Green Bean Casserole, Thanksgiving Recipe, Holiday Side Dish, Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe, Easy Casserole Recipe, French's Fried Onions, Casserole Recipe.