Aunt Laura'S Green Beans
A comforting green bean casserole with savory stewed tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a Parmesan topping, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a saucepan.
- Saute chopped onion until translucent.
- Add flour, salt, oregano, and marjoram to the saucepan.
- Stir in stewed tomatoes and simmer until thickened.
- Layer one can of drained French-cut green beans in a 1½-quart covered casserole dish.
- Pour half of the tomato mixture over the first layer of beans.
- Add the second can of drained green beans.
- Top with the remaining tomato mixture.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes, covered.
- Remove the lid and brown the top under the broiler before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for the margarine. If you want to add more depth, include minced garlic when sautéing the onions. For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce. Fresh herbs can also be used in place of dried oregano and marjoram for a vibrant taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Laura's Green Beans as a delightful side dish for grilled meats or alongside a fresh salad like Salad For All Seasons. It also pairs wonderfully with classic American recipes such as Wayne's Easy Pound Cake for a complete meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the green beans in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out, or microwave them in short intervals until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Laura'S Green Beans contains roughly 217 calories, with 3g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2003mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, fresh green beans can be used! Blanch them first to ensure they are tender before layering them in the casserole. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they cook through during baking.
What can I do to make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the tomato mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your spice preference for the perfect kick.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Absolutely! Aunt Laura's Green Beans are a great vegetarian option. All the ingredients are plant-based, making it a delightful side for anyone following vegetarian recipes or looking to enjoy a meatless meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).