Looking for a comforting dish that will steal the spotlight at your next family gathering? Look no further than the irresistible Ritz Cracker Green Bean Casserole! This creamy and crunchy delight combines tender green beans with a rich mushroom sauce, all topped with a golden, buttery Ritz cracker crust. Perfect for any occasion, this casserole is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Get ready to impress your guests and elevate your dinner table with this classic American favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans of green beans, drained
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir until well combined, ensuring that the green beans are evenly coated with the soup mixture.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture and stir gently to incorporate. This will add a creamy texture and delicious flavor to your casserole.
- Season the mixture with black pepper and garlic powder. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly throughout the casserole.
- Transfer the green bean mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with a tablespoon of melted butter (optional for added flavor and crunch). Mix until the crackers are well-coated.
- Evenly sprinkle the crushed Ritz cracker mixture over the top of the green bean casserole. This will create a crunchy topping that complements the creamy filling.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cracker topping is golden brown.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set slightly and make it easier to serve.
- Serve warm as a delicious side dish for your meal, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Ritz Cracker Green Bean Casserole!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the green bean mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just add the cracker topping right before putting it in the oven.
- Add Extra Flavor: For an added kick, consider mixing in some cooked bacon or sautéed onions to the green bean mixture. This will enhance the flavor profile and give your casserole a unique twist.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor experience.
- Perfect Baking: Keep an eye on the casserole during the last few minutes of baking to ensure the cracker topping doesn’t burn. If it’s browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil until the casserole is done.
- Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even as a hearty vegetarian option alongside a fresh salad. Don’t forget to serve it warm for the best taste!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
