String Bean Casserole
A comforting and savory casserole featuring tender French-style string beans, sweet shoepeg corn, and a creamy celery-based sauce. Topped with crunchy Ritz cracker crumbs and slivered almonds, this dish offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the string beans and corn; mix them together with the cream of celery soup, sour cream, chopped onions, and slivered almonds.
- Melt the butter and pour it over the crushed Ritz crackers.
- Place the Ritz cracker mixture on top of the vegetable and sauce mixture.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. You can also use fresh green beans instead of canned for added texture. If you prefer a nut-free option, skip the slivered almonds or replace them with pumpkin seeds. Additionally, using homemade cream of celery soup can elevate the flavor profile of this dish. Don't forget to ensure all your ingredients are well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This String Bean Casserole pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or a hearty salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or even a refreshing Cucumber And Chicken Salad. It makes an excellent side dish for holiday gatherings or potlucks, enhancing any American recipes spread.
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. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of String Bean Casserole contains roughly 801 calories, with 15g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (155% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 485mg per serving (21% 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 string beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh string beans can add a wonderful crunch and flavor to your casserole. Just blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes before mixing with the other ingredients to ensure they cook through in the casserole.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for the cream of celery soup?
Yes, you can find vegetarian cream soups at most grocery stores, or make your own by blending sautéed celery, onions, and vegetable broth. This allows you to control the ingredients and flavors, making it a great option in vegetarian recipes.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply add the Ritz cracker topping and bake as directed. This makes it perfect for busy holiday preparations or gatherings.
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).