Green Bean Casserole With Canned Green Beans

Green bean casserole with canned green beans is a beloved classic featuring tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions that are both fast and easy to make.

French’s green bean casserole, a beloved classic in American cuisine, has been a favorite for generations. It’s made of tender green beans mixed with creamy mushroom soup and topped with crispy fried onions.

It’s a Thanksgiving superstar, no doubt, but this dish is more than just a holiday staple.

Paired with other classics like creamy mashed potatoes and stovetop mac and cheese, it’s the perfect side for potlucks, family dinners, and any other occasion where you want to please a crowd with minimal effort.

You can count on it at any meal, any day!

Green bean casserole is proof that the best dishes are often the most straightforward, showing that less can be more — and delicious, too.

Ingredients and Substitutions

• Green Beans: I made this recipe with canned green beans as the main star, but feel free to use thawed frozen green beans instead. If using fresh green beans, use this green bean casserole recipe instead for best results.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This canned soup is what makes this recipe so easy. If you want a homemade version without cream of mushroom soup, use the directions in this recipe instead.
• Milk: When using cream of mushroom soup, you need a liquid and milk keeps this dish creamy!
• Crispy Fried Onions: I love the traditional taste of fried onions on top of my green bean casseroles. You can substitute them for Ritz crackers like I do in this recipe here.

How to Make Canned Green Bean Casserole

A full printable version of this recipe with ingredient measurements is available at the bottom of this post.

STEP ONE: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

STEP TWO: In a 13×9 casserole dish, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, green beans, and about half a cup of French fried onions until everything’s well blended.

STEP THREE: Pop that casserole into the oven for 30 minutes.

STEP FOUR: Once done, carefully give it a good stir. Then, sprinkle the rest of the fried onions on top and return the casserole to the oven for another 5-8 minutes, or until those onions are a lovely golden brown.

STEP FIVE: Serve it up while it’s nice and warm. Enjoy!

Tips for Del Monte Green Bean Casserole

• Opt for canned green beans in this recipe. Frozen or fresh green beans will work fine too.
• Keep a close eye on the casserole during the final 5-8 minutes. When the onions on top turn a beautiful golden brown, it’s a sign it’s done! Don’t let them go too far to avoid burning.
• Use a good spoon or spatula for stirring. It makes the mixing process smoother and more efficient.
• There are plenty of brands that work great for this recipe, but if you’re stuck, I recommend using Del Monte or Libby’s canned green beans.

Variations to Green Bean Casserole with Canned Green Beans

• Melted Cheese Option: If you want a cheesy twist on the classic, consider sprinkling shredded cheddar on top before the final bake. 
• Breadcrumb Topping: Create a crunchy topping by using breadcrumbs mixed with butter.
• Nutty Crunch: For a more rustic touch, add some chopped almonds or walnuts to the fried onions on top. It’s a delightful nutty contrast to the creamy casserole.
• Fried Shallots: Swap crispy onions for fried shallots for a different texture.
• Bacon Bits: Take your casserole up a level with crispy bacon bits. Their smoky flavor and crunch add a delightful contrast to the dish. I love the combination of green beans and bacon like in this green bean side dish.

Can I Fresh or Frozen Green Beans for Canned Green Bean Casserole?

Either! Both fresh and frozen green beans work in this green bean casserole. For fresh beans, blanch in boiling water for 4-5 minutes, then cool in ice water before adding to the casserole. 

For frozen beans, follow the same process, but boil for 8-10 minutes.

Can I Make This Del Monte Green Bean Casserole Ahead?

You can absolutely make this casserole the day before! It’s simple — just prepare the casserole, excluding the fried onions. Let it cool completely, then cover and refrigerate. 

When you’re ready, reheat at 350 degrees F for 10-12 minutes. Add the fried onions, then return to the oven for another 8-10 minutes until golden.

How Can I Store Leftovers?

To store any leftovers, just put your casserole in a covered container or an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Do You Drain Green Beans for Green Bean Casserole? 

Yes, it’s best to drain canned green beans before using them in a green bean casserole.

This prevents excess liquid in the casserole, ensuring it turns out with the right consistency and flavor.

What to Serve with French’s Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole with canned green beans pairs deliciously with a variety of dishes. It complements the hearty flavors of Bone-in Chicken Thighs or Air Fryer Ham perfectly. 

And, obviously, it’s a must with any Thanksgiving turkey recipe, including Air Fryer Turkey Breast alongside classic sides like sweet potato casserole, cranberry sauce, and mashed potatoes.

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