Introduction
Prepare to indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy, crispy Ultimate Green Bean Casserole. Perfect for holiday feasts or cozy weeknight dinners, this classic dish combines a rich and velvety sauce with tender green beans, crunchy bacon, and a delightful topping of French-fried onions. Your taste buds are in for a treat!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 (14.5-ounce) cans French-style green beans, drained
- 1 (8-ounce) can sliced water chestnuts, drained
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
- 1 cup French-fried onions
For Topping
- 1/2 cup French-fried onions
- Additional cooked, crumbled bacon (optional)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare for some kitchen magic.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth, then slowly whisk in the chicken broth and cream until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
3. In a large bowl, combine your luscious sauce with green beans, water chestnuts, crumbled bacon, and cheddar cheese. Mix until everything’s happily mingling together.
4. Spread this delightful concoction into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with French-fried onions to crown your creation.
5. Pop the casserole into the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden with a crispy onion halo.
6. For extra flair, sprinkle more bacon on top before serving. And, voilà! Your casserole is ready to wow.
Nutritional Information
Each serving is a party on your palate with a satisfying blend of textures and flavors to boost your festive spirit.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get ready for some kitchen magic.
2. Prepare the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
3. Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine your luscious sauce with 2 (14.5-ounce) cans of drained French-style green beans, 1 (8-ounce) can of drained sliced water chestnuts, crumbled bacon from 6 cooked slices, and 1/2 cup of shredded mild cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is combined.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish
Spread this delightful mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of French-fried onions on top to crown your creation.
5. Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden with a crispy onion topping.
6. Add Final Touches
For extra flair, sprinkle more crumbled bacon on top before serving. Your casserole is now ready to impress!
Notes
Storage Tips
Leftover green bean casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You may want to add a few extra French-fried onions on top before reheating for extra crunch.
Customization Options
Feel free to customize this casserole by adding sautéed mushrooms or substituting a different cheese for a unique flavor.
Cook techniques
Making a Roux
Creating a roux is essential for thickening sauces. Melt butter in a saucepan, then gradually whisk in flour until you get a smooth paste. This forms the base for your creamy sauce.
Whisking for Smoothness
When adding liquids to your roux, whisk continuously to ensure a smooth and lump-free mixture. Begin with chicken broth, followed by heavy cream, allowing the sauce to thicken as it heats.
Combining Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the prepared sauce with green beans, water chestnuts, bacon, and cheese. Stir gently to keep the beans intact while ensuring even coating.
Layering and Topping
Spread the mixture evenly in a greased baking dish. When topping with French-fried onions, distribute them evenly for a golden, crispy finish that adds texture.
Baking for Perfection
Bake the casserole until it’s bubbly and golden brown, usually 20-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning, particularly the onion topping.
FAQ
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, fresh green beans can be used. You’ll need to blanch them first to ensure they cook properly in the casserole.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a non-dairy milk alternative, but keep in mind that this may change the richness of the dish.
How do I store leftover casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole a day in advance and cover it. Bake it just before serving for maximum freshness.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and replace bacon with a plant-based alternative or simply omit it.
Conclusion
This Ultimate Green Bean Casserole is a delightful dish that can elevate any meal, whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy dinner. With its creamy texture, crispy toppings, and a burst of flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the cooking experience!
