Libby'S Green Bean Casserole
A classic green bean casserole featuring tender green beans in a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with shredded cheese for added richness. Perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday feasts, offering a savory blend of flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cream of mushroom soup, water, and green beans in a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the top with shredded cheese and bacon drippings.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the green beans mixture. If you don’t have bacon drippings, olive oil or butter can be used as a substitute. For a lighter version, try using reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup and low-fat cheese. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Libby’s Green Bean Casserole makes a delightful side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Pork Tenderloin With Sherry And Cream Gravy or classic roasted turkey. Consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes and a fresh salad for a complete meal. For added color, garnish with crispy fried onions on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook, as it can make the beans mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Libby'S Green Bean Casserole contains roughly 114 calories, with 3g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (24% 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 absolutely use fresh green beans! Just blanch them in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes before adding them to the casserole. This will help retain their color and crunch. Fresh beans will give your dish a vibrant texture and flavor that canned beans can't match.
Is there a way to make this casserole vegetarian?
Certainly! To make this dish vegetarian, simply substitute the bacon drippings with a plant-based oil like olive oil or coconut oil. Ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is vegetarian as well, and you can add additional vegetables for extra flavor, such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
To prepare this casserole in advance, you can assemble it up to a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the cheese and bacon drippings right before baking. When you’re ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if needed.
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).