Chrissy Teigen's Green Bean Casserole Reinvents a 1955 Holiday Classic

Chrissy Teigen's updated green bean casserole has become a modern favourite, putting a fresh twist on the 1955 Campbell's classic. The dish first gained widespread attention in 2021 after going viral on social media. Unlike the original, her version swaps canned ingredients for fresh ones, adding depth and richness to the traditional recipe.

The original 1955 recipe relied on canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and French's fried onions. It was baked at 350°F for 25 minutes, with onions added halfway through. Teigen's approach starts with fresh green beans, washed, trimmed, and cut into 2-inch pieces before boiling in chicken broth until crisp-tender.

A homemade cream sauce replaces the canned soup, blending cream of mushroom soup, half-and-half, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The boiled beans, diced onions, cubed ham (or leftover turkey/chicken), and shredded cheddar—grated from a block for better melt—are folded into the sauce. The mixture is then poured into a baking dish, topped with more cheese, and baked until bubbly. Before serving, a layer of French fried onions is sprinkled on top, and the dish returns to the oven for a final 10 minutes. Teigen's method also includes sautéing fresh mushrooms, garlic, and onion, while the casserole bakes at a lower 325°F for 30 minutes in one go. The result is a richer, more complex flavour compared to the original.

The updated recipe keeps the comforting essence of the classic but elevates it with fresh ingredients and extra steps. Teigen's version has proven popular, offering a heartier alternative to the quick, canned-based dish. The viral success in 2021 shows how a simple reimagining can bring new life to a decades-old favourite.