HEN THE green bean casserole was created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly, a staff member in the Home Economics Department of the Campbell Soup Company, she had one thing in mind, to create a simple recipe based on two items that most Americans always had on hand in the 50s: Campbell's Cream of Mushroom Soup and green beans. Since its humble beginning, the green bean casserole has stood the test of time. For many, Thanksgiving just wouldn't be the same without this classic side dish served next to a mouthwatering, moist, golden-brown bird.

Over the years, many variations of the green bean casserole have evolved. Some recipes call for fresh green beans over frozen, or

canned, while other recipes incorporate a combination of mushrooms such as button, cremini, and shiitake. There are even Asian-inspired green bean casseroles with ingredients such as ginger and sesame oil folded into the mix. Regardless of the ingredients used, this famous side will always be among our favorite Thanksgiving recipes.