Gilda'S Green Bean Casserole
Gilda's Green Bean Casserole is a comforting side dish featuring tender green beans combined with a creamy mushroom base and topped with crunchy Ritz cracker crumbs. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it offers a nostalgic, savory flavor that complements a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained green beans, chopped onion, and cream of mushroom soup.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle Ritz cracker crumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven until heated through and the topping is golden brown, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onion in a bit of butter before mixing it in with the other ingredients. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version or use cream of celery for a different taste. If you prefer a crunchier topping, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese to the Ritz cracker crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
This green bean casserole pairs beautifully with a hearty main dish, such as roasted chicken or a beef pot roast. It also goes well alongside other classic sides like mashed potatoes or cornbread. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a refreshing salad or showcasing it alongside Mom'S Molasses Cookies for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. If the topping has lost its crunch, consider broiling it for a minute or two at the end.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gilda'S Green Bean Casserole contains roughly 36 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (43% 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, you can use fresh green beans! Blanch them in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes before adding them to the mixture. This will help ensure they are tender and flavorful in the casserole.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This green bean casserole is a vegetarian recipe as long as you use a vegetarian-friendly cream of mushroom soup. It's perfect for gatherings where you want to accommodate various dietary preferences.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it in the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, just add the Ritz cracker topping and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
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).