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Cracker Barrel is known for its comforting, home-style meals that remind us of simpler times spent around the dinner table with family and friends.
One of the standout dishes on their menu is the beloved Green Bean Casserole—a hearty, flavorful side dish that has become a staple in many households, especially during the holidays.
This casserole blends fresh green beans with a creamy, cheesy sauce, topped with crispy fried onions, making it a perfect combination of textures and flavors.
What sets Cracker Barrel’s Green Bean Casserole apart is its attention to detail in creating a dish that’s both rich and satisfying, without being overly complicated.
Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or just looking for a comforting side dish to accompany your meal, this recipe captures the essence of Cracker Barrel’s homestyle cooking.
It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen, just like it is in Cracker Barrel restaurants across the country.
What Makes Cracker Barrel Green Bean Casserole Special?
Cracker Barrel’s Green Bean Casserole stands out for its perfect balance of freshness, creaminess, and crunch.
While many green bean casseroles rely on canned ingredients, Cracker Barrel’s version is made with fresh green beans, giving it a vibrant flavor and an ideal texture.
The creamy sauce, a rich blend of sour cream, cheddar cheese, and mushroom soup, brings comfort and indulgence to each bite.
But it’s the crispy fried onions on top that truly elevate the dish, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base and tender green beans.
Another feature that makes this casserole unique is its simplicity.
The dish uses everyday ingredients, but the combination of flavors feels special enough for holiday dinners or family gatherings.
Unlike some versions that can feel overly heavy or greasy, Cracker Barrel’s Green Bean Casserole strikes a wonderful balance, making it both flavorful and light enough to be enjoyed by everyone.
This dish captures the essence of homestyle cooking—familiar, comforting, and always delicious.
Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Green Bean Casserole
To recreate the magic of Cracker Barrel’s Green Bean Casserole at home, you’ll need a handful of simple yet essential ingredients.
Here’s a breakdown of what makes this casserole come to life:
Fresh Green Beans
The star of the dish—fresh green beans offer a crisp, tender texture and vibrant color that frozen or canned beans just can’t match.
These beans serve as the perfect foundation for the creamy sauce and crispy toppings.
Creamy Sauce Base
The sauce is a perfect blend of:
- Sour Cream: Adds a rich, creamy tang that complements the green beans beautifully.
- Cheddar Cheese: Provides a sharp, savory flavor that melds seamlessly with the sour cream to create a velvety sauce.
- Mushroom Soup: The classic addition that enhances the creaminess and adds depth of flavor, making the casserole hearty and satisfying.
Fried Onions
The crowning glory of this casserole—crispy fried onions are sprinkled on top for that irresistible crunch.
They provide texture and a burst of flavor that balances the creamy sauce beneath.
These onions are essential to achieving that signature Cracker Barrel taste.
Seasonings
A few key seasonings elevate the dish:
- Garlic Powder: For a subtle aromatic flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
- Salt and Pepper: To bring everything together and enhance the natural flavors of the beans and sauce.
Optional Ingredient Tweaks
While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to make it your own by adding:
- Bacon Crumbles: A bit of bacon can add smokiness and savory richness.
- Almonds or Pecans: A handful of chopped nuts can provide extra crunch and a touch of nutty flavor.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be able to create a dish that tastes just like the one you enjoy at Cracker Barrel—comforting, flavorful, and always a crowd favorite.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cracker Barrel Green Bean Casserole
Creating Cracker Barrel’s Green Bean Casserole at home is a simple, enjoyable process that yields a delicious dish.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the perfect casserole every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
Start by trimming the ends of your fresh green beans.
After that, blanch them to maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture.
To do this, bring a pot of water to a boil, add the beans, and cook for about 4-5 minutes until they’re tender but still firm.
Once done, drain the beans and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
This helps preserve their texture and color.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- Sour cream (for creaminess)
- Cheddar cheese (for sharpness)
- Mushroom soup (for richness)
- Garlic powder, salt, and pepper (for seasoning)
Mix these together until well-blended and smooth. The sauce should have a thick, creamy consistency that will coat the green beans perfectly.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add the blanched green beans to the dish, then pour the creamy sauce mixture over the top.
Toss the beans gently to ensure they’re evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 4: Add the Fried Onions and Bake
Sprinkle the crispy fried onions generously over the top of the casserole.
Be sure to reserve a little extra to add halfway through baking for that perfect crunch. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbling and hot throughout.
After 15 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top.
Return it to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the onions to crisp up and turn golden brown.
Step 5: Final Baking and Serving
Once the casserole is golden and bubbling, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
This allows the flavors to set.
Serve hot as the perfect side dish to any meal, and enjoy the creamy, crunchy goodness.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cracker Barrel Green Bean Casserole
To ensure your Cracker Barrel Green Bean Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips and tricks:
1. Choose Fresh Green Beans
Fresh green beans are key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. They hold up well during the cooking process and don’t get mushy like frozen or canned beans. Be sure to trim the ends before blanching to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Don’t Overcook the Beans
Blanch the green beans only for about 4-5 minutes.
The beans will continue to cook while baking, and you want them to remain slightly firm for the perfect texture.
Overcooking can make them mushy, which can take away from the casserole’s appeal.
3. Make the Sauce Ahead of Time
If you’re prepping in advance, you can make the creamy sauce a day or two ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
This saves you time on the day you plan to serve the casserole.
Just mix the sauce ingredients, cover it, and refrigerate until ready to use.
4. Add Extra Toppings for Flavor
While crispy fried onions are traditional, adding a layer of bacon crumbles or chopped pecans can elevate the dish.
Bacon provides a savory, smoky flavor, while nuts add a delicious crunch that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
5. Make it Ahead of Time
This casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish! You can assemble it the day before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Just add the fried onions before baking, and it will be ready in no time when you’re ready to serve.
6. Adjust the Cheese
If you love cheese, don’t hesitate to experiment with different varieties.
While sharp cheddar is the classic choice, adding a bit of parmesan or mozzarella can add a unique depth of flavor to the sauce.
7. Reheat Leftovers with Care
If you have leftovers, reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s warmed through.
To keep the fried onions crispy, consider adding them fresh during the final few minutes of reheating.
With these tips in mind, you’ll create a perfect Cracker Barrel Green Bean Casserole that’s sure to impress your guests and become a go-to side dish for every occasion.
Nutritional Information for Cracker Barrel Green Bean Casserole
While this Cracker Barrel Green Bean Casserole is a comforting, indulgent side dish, it’s important to know the nutritional breakdown, especially if you’re mindful of your calorie intake.
Calories and Macronutrients (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories per serving (1/6th of the casserole)
- Total Fat: 18-20g
- Saturated Fat: 6-8g
- Cholesterol: 25-30mg
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 3-4g
- Sugars: 4-6g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Sodium: 600-700mg
How to Make it Lighter
If you’d like to lighten up the dish without sacrificing flavor, you can make a few adjustments:
- Use low-fat sour cream or a Greek yogurt substitute for a lighter, protein-packed base.
- Opt for reduced-fat cheddar cheese or use a cheese alternative.
- Choose baked or air-fried onions instead of traditional fried onions to cut down on calories and fat.
- Skip the bacon (if included) or use turkey bacon for a leaner option.
With these adjustments, you can still enjoy this classic casserole while keeping your meal on the healthier side.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Cracker Barrel Green Bean Casserole
Cracker Barrel’s Green Bean Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser—a dish that’s rich, creamy, and topped with a perfect crunch from the crispy fried onions.
Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a family dinner, this casserole offers a comforting balance of flavors that everyone will love.
With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can recreate this iconic dish at home and bring the warmth and nostalgia of Cracker Barrel to your own kitchen.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the recipe, whether it’s adding extra cheese, bacon, or nuts for added texture and flavor.
With its flexibility and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy this irresistible side dish with your next meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?
While fresh green beans provide the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen green beans in a pinch.
Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before using them in the casserole.
The cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it while baking.
2. Can I make Cracker Barrel Green Bean Casserole without mushroom soup?
Yes, you can make this casserole without mushroom soup if you prefer.
Substitute the mushroom soup with a homemade cream sauce using heavy cream, butter, and a bit of flour to thicken it.
You can also try using a different canned soup, like cream of chicken or even a dairy-free option.
3. How long does the casserole last in the fridge?
Cracker Barrel Green Bean Casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
If you want to make it ahead of time, you can assemble it the day before, but add the fried onions just before baking to keep them crispy.
4. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator.
When you’re ready to bake it, simply add the fried onions on top and bake as directed.
This makes it a great option for holiday meals or busy weeknights when you want to save time.
5. Can I freeze Cracker Barrel Green Bean Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months.
To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake it.
Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze.
When you’re ready to bake it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed, adding the fried onions in the final minutes of baking for the perfect crunch.
Cracker Barrel Green Bean Casserole
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large pot (for blanching green beans)
- Large mixing bowl
- Strainer (for draining beans)
- Oven
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife (for trimming beans)
- Spoon or spatula (for mixing)
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans trimmed
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions divided
- 1 tbsp olive oil optional, for greasing the dish
Instructions
Preheat the Oven and Prepare Green Beans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trim the ends of the green beans and blanch them by boiling them in a large pot of water for 4-5 minutes. Drain and transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
Assemble the Casserole
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Add the blanched green beans to the dish, then pour the creamy sauce mixture over them. Toss to coat the beans evenly in the sauce.
Add Fried Onions and Bake
- Sprinkle 1 cup of crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbling.
Finish Baking with Extra Fried Onions
- After 15 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of fried onions over the top. Return it to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
Serve
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade Cracker Barrel Green Bean Casserole!
Notes
- Fresh vs. Frozen Green Beans: While fresh green beans offer the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen green beans as an alternative. Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before using them.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it without the fried onions, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, add the fried onions on top and bake as directed.
- Healthier Option: If you’re looking to reduce calories, you can use low-fat sour cream or substitute it with Greek yogurt. Opting for reduced-fat cheese and baked fried onions is another way to make the dish lighter.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
