Wanda'S Vegetable Casserole
A creamy vegetable casserole featuring green beans, corn, cheese, and pimentos, topped with buttery Ritz crackers. Perfect as a comforting side for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all ingredients except margarine and crackers in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until bubbly.
- Meanwhile, crush Ritz crackers and combine with melted margarine.
- Remove casserole from oven and sprinkle cracker mixture on top.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the topping is browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the chopped onion before mixing it into the casserole. You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier option. If you prefer a different vegetable medley, feel free to use mixed frozen vegetables instead of green beans and corn. This dish works well for potlucks and pairs beautifully with Deep Dish Pie (Peach Or Berry).
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. It can be a hearty main dish or a delicious side. Consider pairing it with a light protein, like grilled chicken or fish, for a well-rounded meal. This is also a great dish to serve at family gatherings or during the holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the topping may not stay as crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wanda'S Vegetable Casserole contains roughly 495 calories, with 13g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (195% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 817mg per serving (36% 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 vegetables instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables like green beans, corn, and bell peppers can be used. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding to the casserole to ensure they are tender after baking. This enhances the freshness of the dish and makes it even more delicious.
Is there a gluten-free option for the crackers?
Yes, you can use gluten-free crackers or crushed gluten-free cereal as a substitute for Ritz crackers. Just ensure that the gluten-free option complements the flavors of the casserole. This way, you can still enjoy the crunchy topping without compromising dietary needs.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Certainly! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time, assemble it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge to ensure it’s heated thoroughly.
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).