Green Bean Casserole
The holiday season is all about traditions, and for many families, one dish that holds a special place on the table year after year is green bean casserole. This classic comfort food has become synonymous with Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, filling our hearts and our stomachs with warmth. Today, I want to share with you the story behind this beloved dish and explore why it has become a cherished tradition in so many households.
A Brief History
Believe it or not, green bean casserole, as we know it today, is a fairly modern invention. It was created by Dorcas Reilly in 1955, a home economist working for the Campbell Soup Company. Her goal was to develop a simple yet delicious recipe that could utilize two pantry staples: green beans and cream of mushroom soup.
The Ingredients
Green bean casserole typically consists of canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and crispy fried onions on top. While some families may prefer to add their own twist to the dish by incorporating additional ingredients, these basic components remain constant across most recipes.
Why We Love It
There’s something undeniably comforting about green bean casserole. It represents home, family, and togetherness – all the things we hold dear during the holiday season. It’s a side dish that brings back fond memories of childhood, filled with laughter and love around the dinner table. Moreover, its simplicity and ease of preparation make it accessible to even the most inexperienced cooks, ensuring that everyone can contribute to the holiday feast.
Passing Down the Tradition
One of the beautiful aspects of green bean casserole is how it can be passed down through generations. Many of us remember watching our grandparents or parents prepare this dish with care, and now we find ourselves recreating the same recipe for our own families. It’s a way to connect with our past, honor our heritage, and create new memories that will be cherished for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, green bean casserole has rightfully earned its place as a holiday tradition. Its humble origins, simple ingredients, and nostalgic charm have made it a beloved dish in households across the country. So, as you gather around the table this holiday season, take a moment to appreciate the magic of this timeless recipe and the memories it brings to life. Enjoy every bite and savor the warmth it adds to your celebrations!
Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 can 10 1/2 ounces Campbell’s® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup or Unsalted Cream of Mushroom Soup or Cream of Celery Soup
- 1/2 cup 2% milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 4 cups cooked cut green beans
- 1 1/3 cups French’s® French Fried Onions amount divided in recipe steps below
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F. Fold in the soup, milk, soy sauce, beans and 2/3 cup onions in a 1 1/2-quart oven safe casserole until all ingredients are combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until hot and bubbling. Stir the bean mixture. Sprinkle with the remaining 2/3 cup onions.
- Bake for another 5 minutes or until the onions are golden brown. Let green beans rest a few minutes before serving to help the flavors meld and the casserole settle. Store leftovers in an oven safe dish for easy reheating.
