National Green Bean Casserole Day

National Green Bean Casserole Day is observed in the United States on December 3 each year. The day celebrates a comforting American side dish made with green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions.

History of National Green Bean Casserole Day

National Green Bean Casserole Day was created by food writer Jace Shoemaker-Galloway. The observance recognizes a dish closely associated with Thanksgiving dinners, family gatherings, and other holiday meals in the United States.

Green bean casserole was developed in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly, a recipe developer and manager in the Campbell Soup Company’s test kitchen in Camden, New Jersey. Originally called Green Bean Bake, the recipe was designed to use inexpensive ingredients that many American households already kept on hand.

The original recipe combined canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and crispy fried onions. Its simple preparation helped the dish become a familiar part of holiday menus across the country.

Interesting Facts About National Green Bean Casserole Day

• Dorcas Reilly created the original green bean casserole recipe in 1955.
• The dish was originally known as Green Bean Bake.
• The original recipe card is preserved by the National Inventors Hall of Fame.
• Green bean casserole can be prepared with fresh, frozen, or canned green beans.
• Modern variations may include cheese, bacon, mushrooms, garlic, or homemade sauce.
• Green beans provide fiber and nutrients such as vitamin C and vitamin K.
• Green beans are also available in yellow and purple varieties, although some purple beans turn green when cooked.

How to Take Part in National Green Bean Casserole Day

Prepare the classic recipe or create your own version with fresh mushrooms, homemade sauce, cheese, bacon, or different seasonings. Invite friends or family to share the dish as part of a meal.

You can also compare traditional and modern recipes, organize a casserole tasting, or ask relatives about the versions served at their family gatherings. Refrigerate leftovers promptly and reheat them thoroughly before serving.

When Is National Green Bean Casserole Day in 2026?

National Green Bean Casserole Day is observed on December 3 each year.

Observations