Creamy Green Bean Bake
A creamy green bean casserole with savory mushroom soup, tangy pimiento, and crispy fried onions, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook frozen green beans according to package directions; drain.
- Or drain canned green beans.
- In a 1-quart casserole, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and pimiento.
- Stir in the cooked or drained green beans.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until bubbly.
- Sprinkle with French fried onions and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of grated cheese to the mixture before baking. If you're out of sour cream, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. You can also use fresh green beans if you prefer, just blanch them first. Adding a pinch of garlic powder can enhance the flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes like Kentucky Pudding Pie.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy green bean bake makes an excellent side dish for holiday meals or family dinners. It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or turkey and can be complemented by a fresh salad like Riviera Strawberry Salad. Consider serving with a warm bread roll to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover creamy green bean bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Green Bean Bake contains roughly 149 calories, with 5g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% 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 frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh green beans! Just make sure to blanch them in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes before adding them to the casserole. This ensures they will cook properly during baking and maintain their vibrant color and crunch.
Is there a vegetarian option for the cream of mushroom soup?
Absolutely! Look for a vegetarian or plant-based cream of mushroom soup at your local grocery store, or make your own using blended mushrooms, vegetable broth, and a thickening agent like cornstarch or flour. This allows you to enjoy a delicious vegetarian version of this dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble the ingredients as directed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This way, it will bake evenly and thoroughly.
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).