French's (Durkee) Original Green Bean Casserole (2024)

Welcome to my kitchen, where we’re about to embark on a journey to the past with a beloved dish that never goes out of style: The Traditional Green Bean Casserole Recipe.

Green bean casserole is a classic side dish that has been a part of holiday meals for generations.

With its creamy mushroom sauce, tender green beans, and crispy fried onions on top, this dish brings comfort and joy to so many families.

In this post, I’ll share the original recipe for green bean casserole, staying true to its nostalgic roots as well as offer some variations for those who like to experiment with flavors.

Whether you’re preparing the original green bean casserole recipe for your holiday dinner table or simply craving a taste of nostalgia, this classic dish is sure to delight everyone!

Reasons We Love French’s Original Green Bean Casserole

Prep Time – This easy recipe is ready for the oven in just a few minutes. Making this casserole very convenient for the busy holiday season.

Simple Ingredients – This dish has only 5 basic inexpensive ingredients which all can be varied to create your own personal casserole!

Tradition – Green bean casserole has been a staple in many households for their Thanksgiving dinner as well as Christmas dinners. It has a nostalgic appeal to it that brings back family memories.

French’s Green Bean Casserole Ingredients

Simple Ingredients

• Frozen green beans

• Cream of mushroom soup

• Milk

• Black pepper

• Durkee French fried onions

• Kosher salt (optional)

• Non stick cooking spray

Equipment / Helpful Tools

• Large / medium bowl

• Whisk

• Wooden spoon or rubber spatula

• Measuring cup

• Measuring spoons

• 2-quart casserole dish

• Oven mitts

Fun Fact

French’s green bean casserole is a classic recipe that has become synonymous with the brand.

The credit for creating the original recipe is the late Dorcas Reilly, a Campbell Soup Company employee.

In 1955 Dorcas and her team developed the creamy green bean casserole topped with crunchy Durkee onions which eventually became known as the iconic green bean casserole.

Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Easy To Follow Steps

• Cook frozen green beans according to package and drain well.

• Heat oven.

• Prepare baking dish with non stick cooking spray.

• In a large bowl, mix soup, milk, and black pepper.

• Combine beans and stir.

• Add half of the fried onions with the soup mixture.

• Gently stir together.

• Pour green bean mixture into prepared casserole dish.

• Bake uncovered.

• Using oven mitts, remove dish and sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top.

• Return to the oven and bake until onion rings are golden brown.

See recipe card below for complete measurements, details, and total time.

Variations Of This Classic Holiday Side Dish

Green Beans – I love the convenience and taste of frozen green beans. Fresh green beans or canned green beans (2 cans – 16 oz each, drained) can be used.

Creamy Mushroom Soup – I use Campbell’s Cream Of Mushroom Soup for this recipe. Other soups that are popular to substitute are Cream Of Celery Soup and Cream Of Chicken Soup. I like to keep things simple, and so a can of cream of mushroom soup is a lot easier, but you certainly can use your ownhomemade cream of mushroom soup.

French’s Fried Onions – There are other fried onions that can be used however, French’s Crispy Fried Onions or Durkee French Fried Onions are the iconic topping that adds a delightful crunch and flavor to this casserole. Making yourown fried onionsis fairly easy and great in so many dishes.

Ingredient Additions – Chopped water chestnuts (8 oz.) add crunchiness. Add shredded cheese (1/2 cup) to create a cheesy green bean casserole. Soy sauce (1 tsp.) and minced garlic (1 tsp.) are often added for additional flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Make Green Bean Casserole Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can! I recommend you mix the green beans, mushroom soup, and black pepper and refrigerate until you are ready to bake.

Allow the casserole to come to room temperature, then add the french onions just before baking.

How Do You Store Green Bean Casserole?

Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 4-5 days.

Looking for other side dish recipes for your holiday table or those busy weeknight dinners?

Check out these delicious casseroles from Join Me In The Kitchen!

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• Corn Casserole With Green Chilies And Cream Cheese

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