Green Bean and Potato Casserole

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. The Green Bean and Potato Casserole is a dish that has earned its place in my heart and on my dinner table. It’s simple yet satisfying, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight meals and special occasions. I remember the first time I made this for my family; the aroma wafting from the oven filled the house, and everyone gathered around, eager to dive in. It quickly became a staple, and now, every time I serve it, I can see the smiles on their faces as they savor the cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

• 2 (15 ounce) cans diced potatoes, drained
• 2 (14 ounce) cans green beans, drained
• 1 pound shredded Colby cheese
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a small casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Ingredients: In the prepared casserole dish, combine the drained diced potatoes, drained green beans, shredded Colby cheese, and the can of condensed cream of chicken soup. Stir everything together until well mixed, ensuring that the cheese is evenly distributed.
3. Bake: Cover the casserole with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
4. Uncover and Continue Baking: After 30 minutes, remove the cover and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and lightly browned on top.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Green Bean and Potato Casserole!

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 820mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 36g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 12g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm as a side dish for dinner.
• Pair with roasted meats like chicken or beef.
• Top with crispy fried onions for added texture.
• Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
• For a comforting lunch, enjoy it on its own!

Additional Tips

1. Cheese Variations: While Colby cheese adds a great flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different taste.
2. Make it Creamy: If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream to the mixture before baking.
3. Add Protein: For a heartier meal, mix in some cooked shredded chicken or turkey to the casserole.
4. Spice it Up: Incorporate some spices like garlic powder or onion powder for an extra kick of flavor.
5. Use Fresh Veggies: If you have fresh green beans and potatoes on hand, feel free to use them instead of canned for a fresher taste.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Leave out the cream of chicken soup and use a vegetable-based soup instead for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Cheesy Broccoli Variation: Add a cup of steamed broccoli florets to the mixture for a cheesy broccoli casserole twist.
• Southwestern Style: Mix in some diced tomatoes and green chilies along with the other ingredients for a Southwestern flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the casserole with roasted chicken, turkey, or a beef roast for a comforting family dinner.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.
• Include a simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness of the casserole.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh green beans?
   Yes, you can use fresh green beans. Just blanch them before mixing them into the casserole.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the baking step and refrigerate it overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
3. Is this casserole gluten-free?
   Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup.
4. Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
   Yes, you can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade cream sauce as a substitute.
5. What can I add for extra flavor?
   Consider adding sautéed onions or garlic for an additional flavor boost.
6. How long will this casserole last in the fridge?
   It will last about 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
7. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, just use a larger casserole dish and adjust the baking time as needed.
8. What other vegetables can I add?
   You can add corn, peas, or even bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
9. Is this recipe suitable for potlucks?
   Yes! It’s a crowd-pleaser and travels well.
10. Can I make this vegan?
    You can use dairy-free cheese and a vegetable-based cream soup to make it vegan.

Conclusion

The Green Bean and Potato Casserole is a simple yet delicious dish that perfectly embodies comfort food. Its cheesy, creamy texture combined with tender vegetables makes it a hit at any table. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast, a family dinner, or a casual gathering, this casserole is sure to delight everyone. With easy preparation and endless variations, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Enjoy making it, sharing it, and most importantly, savoring every bite!

Print