Esther'S Green Bean Casserole
A creamy green bean casserole with cheese, water chestnuts, and crunchy Ritz cracker topping, perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings, offering a savory, satisfying flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sour cream and cream of celery soup and pour over the casserole.
- Melt margarine and combine with Ritz crackers to make the topping.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes to 1 hour until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of Cheddar and mozzarella cheese in the casserole. If you don't have Ritz crackers, crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs can be excellent substitutes for the topping. To save time, you can use frozen green beans and corn instead of canned. Experiment with adding cooked bacon or diced bell peppers for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Esther's Green Bean Casserole is a perfect side dish for holiday meals, pairing wonderfully with roasted turkey or ham. Serve alongside a fresh salad, such as Pear Under The Sea Salad, for a balanced meal. This dish is also fantastic for potlucks or family gatherings, where it will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover green bean casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved for 1-2 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Esther'S Green Bean Casserole contains roughly 402 calories, with 7g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 680mg per serving (30% 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. Assemble all ingredients and cover it tightly. Store it in the refrigerator, then bake it just before serving. This saves time and allows the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before adding them to the casserole. This helps to maintain their vibrant color and texture, making your dish even more appealing.
Is this casserole vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it does not include any meat. However, always check the labels of your canned goods, like the cream of celery soup, to ensure they meet your dietary preferences.
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).