Back in Time Today
Green bean casseroles have been a staple in American kitchens for decades, offering comfort and nostalgia with every bite. These 12 recipes take you on a delicious journey through time, showcasing the creativity and flavors of the past.
Each casserole tells its own story, reflecting the culinary trends and innovations of its era. Whether it’s the mid-century love for creamy textures, the advent of processed cheese, or the introduction of fun toppings like tater tots, these casseroles capture the essence of the times.
Join us as we explore these beloved dishes your grandma might have lovingly prepared.
1. Campbell’s Classic Green Bean Casserole (1955)
This iconic dish is a timeless classic, born in 1955 by Campbell’s Soup Company. It features tender green beans enveloped in a creamy, savory blend of cream of mushroom soup and milk, crowned with a crunchy layer of French’s crispy fried onions.
The harmonious marriage of flavors and textures made it a beloved side dish in American households. The casserole’s simplicity and convenience captured the hearts of busy homemakers, becoming a Thanksgiving staple.
The crispy onions add a delightful crunch, making each bite a satisfying experience. This dish embodies the spirit of mid-century culinary innovation.
2. Cheesy Green Bean Bake (1960s)
In the swinging ’60s, the Cheesy Green Bean Bake brought a delightful twist to the traditional casserole. By incorporating shredded cheddar cheese, this recipe added a layer of creamy richness, transforming the humble green bean into a decadent side dish.
The melted cheese oozes between the beans, creating a luscious, gooey texture that’s hard to resist. With its vibrant yellow hue and comforting aroma, it became a favorite at family gatherings.
This cheesy delight reflects the era’s adventurous spirit, where experimenting with flavors and textures was celebrated.
3. Bacon & Onion Green Bean Casserole (1950s)
Nothing says the 1950s quite like adding bacon to a dish! This version of the green bean casserole features crumbled bacon and sautéed onions, elevating the flavor profile with a smoky, savory depth.
The crispy bacon bits contrast beautifully with the tender beans, while the onions add a sweet, aromatic touch. This hearty dish reflects the decade’s love for rich, comforting foods, often enjoyed during family dinners.
The combination of flavors in this casserole evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of a time when mealtime was a cherished family ritual.
4. Green Bean & Water Chestnut Casserole (1970s)
The 1970s saw the rise of the Green Bean & Water Chestnut Casserole, adding a distinctive crunch to the classic dish. The sliced water chestnuts provide a satisfying texture contrast, making each bite an exciting experience.
This variation reflects the era’s penchant for incorporating unique ingredients into traditional recipes. The water chestnuts’ subtle sweetness complements the savory nature of the casserole, creating a harmonious balance.
This dish became a popular choice for gatherings, embodying the adventurous spirit of the 1970s culinary scene, where experimentation and texture were celebrated.
5. Tater Tot Green Bean Bake (late ’60s)
The late ’60s introduced a fun and innovative twist with the Tater Tot Green Bean Bake. By swapping the traditional fried onion topping for crispy tater tots, this casserole gained instant popularity among families, especially with children.
The golden tots add a playful, kid-friendly element, providing a crispy exterior that contrasts with the tender green beans. This dish reflects the decade’s creativity and desire to make mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
It became a staple at potlucks and gatherings, where its unique texture and whimsical appearance delighted guests of all ages.
6. Velveeta Green Bean Casserole (1950s)
In the 1950s, processed cheese was all the rage, and the Velveeta Green Bean Casserole capitalized on this trend. This version features gooey, melted Velveeta cheese, enveloping the green beans in a rich, creamy embrace.
The smooth texture and bold, cheesy flavor made it a hit among households that embraced convenience and indulgence. The casserole’s vibrant orange hue was visually appealing, adding a pop of color to the dinner table.
This dish reflects the era’s fascination with processed foods, offering a delightful fusion of taste and texture that remains memorable to this day.
7. French Green Bean Casserole with Almonds (1960s)
For those seeking elegance in the 1960s, the French Green Bean Casserole with Almonds was a go-to choice. This dish uses slender French-style green beans, adding a touch of sophistication to the traditional casserole.
The slivered almonds provide a delicate, nutty crunch, enhancing the overall flavor profile. This casserole was popular at dinner parties and gatherings, where its refined presentation impressed guests.
The combination of tender beans and crisp almonds offered a harmonious balance, making it a delicious and visually appealing addition to any meal.
8. Green Bean Casserole Supreme (1960s)
The Green Bean Casserole Supreme emerged in the 1960s, elevating the classic dish to new heights. This version features a breadcrumb-Parmesan topping, adding a savory crunch that enhances the green beans’ natural flavors.
Chopped pimentos contribute a burst of color, making the casserole visually stunning. This dish became popular at sophisticated dinners, where its refined taste and presentation impressed guests.
The combination of textures and flavors creates a delightful culinary experience, capturing the essence of 1960s gastronomy. The casserole’s innovative approach continues to inspire modern adaptations.
9. Green Bean & Sausage Casserole (late ’50s)
In the late 1950s, the Green Bean & Sausage Casserole offered a hearty, one-dish meal option. This variation includes ground sausage, providing a robust, savory depth that pairs perfectly with the tender green beans.
The combination of meat and vegetables makes it a satisfying main course, ideal for family dinners. This casserole reflects the era’s emphasis on hearty, comforting foods, appealing to those seeking a complete meal in one dish.
Its rich flavors and filling nature made it a beloved addition to dinner tables, showcasing the decade’s culinary ingenuity.
10. Green Bean & Rice Bake (1960s church cookbook style)
The Green Bean & Rice Bake found its place in 1960s church cookbooks, becoming a potluck favorite. This dish layers green beans with white rice, creating a cohesive blend of textures and flavors.
The rice absorbs the savory mushroom sauce, infusing each grain with rich, umami notes. This casserole embodies the communal spirit of the time, where sharing recipes and meals brought people together.
Its simplicity and heartiness made it a popular choice for gatherings, while its comforting taste and texture continue to evoke warm memories of shared meals and fellowship.
11. Canned Ham & Green Bean Casserole (1950s)
During the 1950s, practicality was key, leading to the creation of the Canned Ham & Green Bean Casserole. This dish incorporates diced canned ham, stretching the meal to feed more mouths in post-war households.
The savory ham complements the tender green beans, providing a satisfying, protein-rich option. This casserole became a staple during times when resources were limited, reflecting the era’s focus on economical and nourishing meals.
Its hearty nature and ease of preparation made it a reliable choice for families seeking comfort and sustenance in their daily meals.
12. Green Bean & Cream Cheese Delight (1960s)
The Green Bean & Cream Cheese Delight emerged in the 1960s, offering a rich, tangy alternative to traditional casseroles. By incorporating cream cheese, this dish achieved a thicker, more indulgent consistency, appealing to those with a taste for decadence.
The cream cheese’s smooth, tangy profile elevates the green beans, creating a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth. This casserole became a highlight at dinner parties, where its creamy richness impressed guests.
Its innovative approach reflects the era’s willingness to explore new culinary frontiers, making it a memorable addition to any meal.