Maudie'S Green Bean Casserole
A creamy, cheesy green bean casserole topped with crispy Ritz crackers or onion rings, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the green beans in their juice until most of the juice is out and the beans are tender, then drain.
- Cook the chopped onion in margarine until tender.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked onion, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Add the mixture to the drained green beans and stir well.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with crushed Ritz crackers or canned onion rings.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and golden, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh green beans instead of canned. You can also substitute the Cheddar cheese with a blend of Gruyère and mozzarella for a different texture. If you prefer a crunchier topping, use French fried onions instead of crushed Ritz crackers. Don’t skip the sour cream; it adds creaminess that balances the dish perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad, such as Opal'S Salad Dressing, or roasted chicken for a hearty meal. It's perfect for potlucks and family gatherings. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes or cornbread for a comforting dinner. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
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 (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but for best results, cover with a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maudie'S Green Bean Casserole contains roughly 589 calories, with 16g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (45% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 782mg per serving (34% 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?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Just be sure to blanch them first to achieve the right tenderness before mixing them in.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for the cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, you can use a homemade or store-bought vegetarian cream of mushroom soup. Alternatively, a béchamel sauce can work well as a creamy base without the meat products.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
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).