Delicious String Bean Casserole
A creamy and savory string bean casserole with cheese, pimento, and crispy cracker topping, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a skillet.
- Add chopped celery and onion; cook until tender.
- Drain the can of string beans.
- Add the drained beans and chopped pimento to the cooked celery and onion.
- Mix the juice from the beans with the mushroom soup.
- Combine the bean mixture with the soup mixture and pour into a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Add cracker crumbs on top of the cheese.
- Dot the casserole with small pieces of butter.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh string beans instead of canned ones. You can substitute the mushroom soup with a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms and cream for a richer taste. If you prefer a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use sharp cheddar cheese instead of regular cheese. This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This string bean casserole pairs beautifully with a holiday turkey or ham, making it a perfect side dish for festive meals. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a balanced plate. For a complete vegetarian meal, consider adding a side of cornbread or pairing it with a hearty soup. For dessert, try serving with a slice of Dessert Chocolate Trifle.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help maintain the crispiness of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Delicious String Bean Casserole contains roughly 399 calories, with 4g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use if I don't have mushroom soup?
If you don't have mushroom soup, you can create a quick substitute by combining 1 cup of heavy cream with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and a dash of soy sauce for flavor. This will give your casserole a similar creamy texture and rich flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this string bean casserole gluten-free, simply use gluten-free cracker crumbs instead of regular ones. Additionally, ensure that the mushroom soup you use is gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free versions, or you can make your own as mentioned earlier.
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).