The classic Campbell's green bean casserole is a staple on many Thanksgiving tables. But there are easy ways to upgrade the out-of-the-can version. If you're intimidated by the length and number of steps in this recipe, bear in mind that you don't need to use the whole thing—try canned fried onions instead of frying your own, for instance. Or, to make it even easier, stick with two cans of cream of mushroom soup instead of making your own creamy mushroom sauce.

This green bean casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to two days before it's baked and topped with additional fried shallots (see note).