Something Different Green Bean and Corn Casserole
A twist on the classic green bean casserole, this unique and flavorful dish is perfect for any occasion. With a combination of sweet onions, French-style green beans, and a creamy mixture topped with a crunchy nut and cracker crust, it’s a departure from the usual recipes. Adapted from Southern Living, this casserole brings fresh flavors and textures together, offering a satisfying side that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| French-style green beans | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| White shoepeg corn | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Corn (fresh or frozen) | 1 cup |
| Celery | 2-3 stalks |
| Onion (preferably sweet) | 1 medium |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1/2 cup |
| Light sour cream | 1 cup |
| Sour cream | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Butter (melted) | 22 tablespoons |
| Margarine | 1 tablespoon |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a medium-sized oval baking dish (around 7”x11”) with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup easier.
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Prepare the Crust Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the cracker crumbs and nuts. Pour in the melted butter and stir until everything is evenly coated. Set this mixture aside. The cracker and nut combination will add a delightful crunch on top of the casserole, giving it extra texture and flavor.
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Assemble the Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the French-style green beans, white shoepeg corn, fresh or frozen corn, finely chopped celery, and diced sweet onion (Walla Walla or Vidalia onions are ideal for their sweetness). Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, light sour cream, and regular sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well so all ingredients are fully incorporated.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This ensures that every bite has the right balance of creamy, savory filling.
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Top and Bake: Sprinkle the reserved nut and cracker topping evenly over the casserole. This will create a beautiful golden crust as it bakes. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping has turned a crispy golden brown.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even as part of a festive holiday spread.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 357.3 kcal |
| Total Fat | 23.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 43.5 mg |
| Sodium | 541.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 30.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugars | 2.4 g |
| Protein | 9.6 g |
Tips for Success
- Adjusting Texture: If you prefer a thicker or creamier casserole, add a little extra sour cream or cheese to the mixture.
- Crunchy Topping: The cracker-nut topping is key to giving this dish a unique texture. If you want it even crunchier, feel free to add extra nuts or a mix of different types of crackers.
- Vegetable Variations: While this recipe uses sweet onions and celery, you can try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for an additional layer of flavor.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and bake when ready to serve.
This delightful twist on the traditional green bean casserole brings together simple ingredients in a new and exciting way. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the blend of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures in every bite!
