01 -
First things first, drain those green beans. But don't go crazy! I usually leave just a tiny bit of liquid in the bottom of the can. It helps the sauce from getting too thick later. Grab your biggest mixing bowl; you'll need room to get messy. I always make sure everything's open and ready before I even start, less panic that way!
02 -
Now for the magic! Pour in that glorious can of Campbell's Cream of Mushroom soup. Add your milk, the splash of soy sauce (don't skip this, honestly!), and a good grind of black pepper. I sometimes add my little secret, a touch of garlic powder here too. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth and creamy. You want it to look luscious, like a hug in a bowl.
03 -
Gently fold in your drained green beans. This is where I tend to make a bit of a mess, splashing green bean juice everywhere, oops! Make sure every bean is coated in that creamy sauce. You don't want any naked beans in your Campbell's Green Bean Casserole! This step always makes me think of my grandma, stirring away with such purpose.
04 -
Time for the first round of French fried onions! Stir about two-thirds of the onions into the green bean mixture. This is key for getting that crunchy texture throughout, not just on top. I used to just dump them all on top, but then I realized this trick gives you a better experience. The smell of those onions mixing in? Divine.
05 -
Pour your glorious Campbell's Green Bean Casserole mixture into a 1.5-quart baking dish. Don't worry if it looks a little rustic; that's part of its charm! Smooth out the top with a spoon or spatula. I always give it a little tap on the counter to settle everything. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you haven't already, I always forget this bit until now!
06 -
Bake for about 25 minutes, or until it's bubbly around the edges. You'll start to smell that amazing aroma filling your kitchen—that's your cue! Pull it out, sprinkle the remaining French fried onions evenly over the top, and pop it back in for another 5 minutes. You want those onions golden brown and extra crispy. Seriously, watch them; they can go from perfect to burnt in a flash!