String Bean Delight
String Bean Delight is a hearty, cheesy casserole featuring tender string beans, seasoned ground beef, fresh tomatoes, and a crispy cheese topping, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef with diced onions.
- Add the string beans, whole tomatoes, and sliced onions to the beef mixture.
- Mix well and then press the mixture into rings or a baking dish.
- Place in a baking pan and bake in an oven at 350°F for about 1.5 hours, until the moisture is absorbed.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese on top and cover with mashed potatoes.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting ground turkey for the ground beef. Fresh string beans will provide a crisper texture compared to frozen ones. If you're in a pinch, canned green beans can work as well, though they may alter the flavor slightly. For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of garlic powder into the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve String Bean Delight with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad to balance the hearty flavors. It also pairs beautifully with Dee'S Garlic Mashed Potatoes Casserole for a comforting meal. For an extra kick, consider serving with a tangy tomato salad or pickled vegetables on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of String Bean Delight contains roughly 1494 calories, with 51g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 91g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (102% of the Daily Value), calcium (92% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1728mg per serving (75% 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 different types of beans in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh or frozen green beans with other types like wax beans or even mixed vegetables for a twist. Just ensure they are cooked properly before baking to maintain the right texture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or lentils. You can also enhance flavor with spices like cumin and smoked paprika, and consider adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
What can I do if I don't have whole tomatoes?
If you don't have whole tomatoes, you can use canned diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes. Just adjust the quantity slightly to maintain the moisture level in the dish. You can also blend fresh tomatoes if you prefer a smoother sauce.
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).