Elevate Your Green Bean Casserole: Delicious Recipes Using Costco’s Deli Green Beans
Green bean casserole. It’s a Thanksgiving staple, a holiday tradition, and for some, a nostalgic comfort food. But let’s be honest, sometimes the traditional recipe can feel a bit… predictable. Enter Costco’s Deli Green Beans – a convenient and flavorful base to revolutionize your green bean casserole game. This article dives into creative and delicious ways to use Costco’s pre-made green beans to create a green bean casserole that’s anything but ordinary. We’ll explore recipes that add freshness, depth of flavor, and a touch of gourmet flair to this classic dish.
Why Costco’s Deli Green Beans are a Game Changer
Before we jump into the recipes, let’s talk about why using Costco’s Deli Green Beans is such a smart move. Here’s why they are a fantastic shortcut:
* **Convenience:** The biggest advantage is the time saved. No more washing, trimming, and cooking fresh green beans. This significantly cuts down on prep time, especially during busy holidays.
* **Consistent Quality:** Costco’s green beans are generally consistent in quality, size, and texture. This ensures a more uniform and visually appealing casserole.
* **Flavor Profile:** These beans are typically seasoned simply, offering a neutral base that allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. They aren’t overly salty or flavored, giving you complete control.
* **Availability:** You can usually find them readily available at your local Costco deli, making them a dependable option.
* **Versatility:** Beyond casserole, they can be incorporated into various other dishes, making them a versatile ingredient to have on hand.
Recipe 1: Classic Green Bean Casserole, Elevated
This recipe builds upon the traditional green bean casserole but adds a few simple tweaks to enhance the flavor and texture, using the Costco Deli Green Beans as its base.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 lbs Costco Deli Green Beans
* 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
* ½ cup milk
* 1 tsp soy sauce (low sodium)
* ½ tsp garlic powder
* ¼ tsp black pepper
* 1 ½ cups French fried onions, divided
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* Optional: 2-3 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).**
2. **Prepare the Green Beans:** If the Costco Deli Green Beans are very long, you can chop them into slightly smaller, bite-sized pieces. This isn’t strictly necessary, but it can make the casserole easier to serve and eat. Place the green beans into a large bowl.
3. **Make the Sauce:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. The soy sauce adds a subtle umami flavor that complements the mushroom soup beautifully.
4. **Combine Ingredients:** Pour the sauce over the green beans and gently stir until the beans are evenly coated. Add half (approximately ¾ cup) of the French fried onions and the crumbled bacon (if using) to the bowl and stir to incorporate.
5. **Transfer to Baking Dish:** Pour the green bean mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. A glass or ceramic dish works well.
6. **Top with Remaining Onions:** Sprinkle the remaining ¾ cup of French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole. Drizzle the melted butter over the fried onions. This will help them brown nicely and add a touch of richness.
7. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the French fried onions are golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully towards the end to prevent the onions from burning.
8. **Let Rest:** Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **For a richer flavor:** Substitute heavy cream for milk.
* **Add some spice:** Include a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a brighter flavor. Chop finely and add to the green bean mixture.
* **Cheese:** Sprinkle shredded cheddar, Gruyere, or Parmesan cheese over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking.
* **Mushroom Variety:** Use a combination of cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken for a slightly different flavor profile.
Recipe 2: Garlic Parmesan Green Bean Casserole
This recipe infuses the green bean casserole with the savory flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese, creating a sophisticated and delicious side dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 lbs Costco Deli Green Beans
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
* ¼ cup heavy cream
* ¼ cup chicken broth
* ½ teaspoon salt
* ¼ teaspoon black pepper
* 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).**
2. **Sauté Garlic:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. **Add Green Beans:** Add the Costco Deli Green Beans to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic-infused oil. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are slightly softened and heated through.
4. **Make the Sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
5. **Combine Ingredients:** Pour the cream mixture over the green beans in the skillet. Add the ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. **Prepare Breadcrumb Topping:** In a separate bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs and melted butter. Toss to coat.
7. **Transfer to Baking Dish:** Pour the green bean mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. **Top with Breadcrumbs and Parmesan:** Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese over the breadcrumbs.
9. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
10. **Let Rest:** Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add a Kick:** Include a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing for a touch of heat.
* **Use Fresh Garlic:** Substitute the minced garlic with garlic powder if preferred. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste.
* **Nutty Flavor:** Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the breadcrumb topping for added texture and flavor.
* **Lemon Zest:** Grate lemon zest over the casserole before baking for a bright and zesty flavor.
* **Different Cheese:** Substitute Parmesan cheese with Asiago or Romano cheese for a different flavor profile.
Recipe 3: Spicy Sriracha Green Bean Casserole
For those who like a little heat, this Sriracha green bean casserole is a flavorful and exciting twist on the classic. The Sriracha adds a delightful kick that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 lbs Costco Deli Green Beans
* 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
* ¼ cup milk
* 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
* 1 teaspoon soy sauce (low sodium)
* ½ teaspoon garlic powder
* ¼ teaspoon black pepper
* 1 cup French fried onions, divided
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).**
2. **Prepare the Green Beans:** Chop the Costco Deli Green Beans into smaller, bite-sized pieces if desired.
3. **Make the Sauce:** In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, Sriracha sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Start with 1 tablespoon of Sriracha and add more to taste, depending on your spice preference.
4. **Combine Ingredients:** Add the green beans to the bowl with the sauce and stir to coat evenly. Add half (approximately ½ cup) of the French fried onions to the bowl and stir to incorporate.
5. **Transfer to Baking Dish:** Pour the green bean mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. **Top with Remaining Onions:** Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the French fried onions are golden brown and crispy.
8. **Garnish:** Remove the casserole from the oven and drizzle with sesame oil. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. The sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and complements the Sriracha flavor.
9. **Let Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Protein:** Incorporate cooked and crumbled sausage or shredded chicken for a heartier casserole.
* **Different Hot Sauce:** Experiment with other hot sauces like Go-Chu-Chang or Tabasco for a different flavor profile.
* **Ginger:** Add a teaspoon of grated ginger to the sauce for a warm and spicy flavor.
* **Sesame Seeds:** Sprinkle sesame seeds over the casserole before baking for added texture and flavor.
* **Lime Juice:** Squeeze a lime wedge over the casserole before serving for a burst of freshness.
Recipe 4: Vegan Green Bean Casserole (Using Costco Green Beans)
This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying vegan version of the classic green bean casserole, still utilizing the convenience of Costco’s Deli Green Beans.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 lbs Costco Deli Green Beans
* 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (vegan variety)
* ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium)
* ½ teaspoon garlic powder
* ¼ teaspoon black pepper
* 1 ½ cups French fried onions (vegan variety), divided
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Optional: 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms (cremini or shiitake), sautéed
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).**
2. **Prepare the Green Beans:** Chop the Costco Deli Green Beans into smaller, bite-sized pieces if desired. Place them in a large bowl.
3. **Sauté Mushrooms (Optional):** If using, sauté the chopped mushrooms in a skillet with a little olive oil until softened and browned. This adds a richer, more earthy flavor to the casserole.
4. **Make the Sauce:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegan cream of mushroom soup, almond milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. The soy sauce adds umami depth, which is crucial in vegan dishes.
5. **Combine Ingredients:** Pour the sauce over the green beans (and sautéed mushrooms, if using) and gently stir until the beans are evenly coated. Add half (approximately ¾ cup) of the vegan French fried onions to the bowl and stir to incorporate.
6. **Transfer to Baking Dish:** Pour the green bean mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. **Top with Remaining Onions:** Sprinkle the remaining ¾ cup of vegan French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole. Drizzle the olive oil over the fried onions for browning.
8. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the French fried onions are golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
9. **Let Rest:** Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Vegan Cheese:** Sprinkle vegan shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy element.
* **Nutritional Yeast:** Add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast to the sauce for a cheesy, savory flavor.
* **Smoked Paprika:** A pinch of smoked paprika adds a smoky depth to the dish.
* **Different Vegetables:** Add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers or corn for added texture and flavor.
* **Cashew Cream:** Make a homemade cashew cream sauce for a richer and more flavorful vegan casserole. There are plenty of recipes available online.
Recipe 5: Mediterranean Green Bean Casserole
This recipe brings a Mediterranean flair to the classic casserole, incorporating flavors like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a bright and flavorful dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 lbs Costco Deli Green Beans
* 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
* 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
* 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Optional: Toasted pine nuts, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).**
2. **Prepare the Green Beans:** If desired, chop the Costco Deli Green Beans into smaller pieces.
3. **Sauté Garlic:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. **Add Green Beans and Other Ingredients:** Add the green beans, sun-dried tomatoes, and Kalamata olives to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are slightly softened and heated through.
5. **Add Broth and Seasonings:** Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth), lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. **Transfer to Baking Dish:** Pour the green bean mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. **Top with Feta Cheese:** Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the feta cheese is slightly melted and the casserole is heated through.
9. **Garnish:** Remove from oven. If desired, garnish with toasted pine nuts
10. **Let Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Artichoke Hearts:** Add quartered artichoke hearts for a more robust flavor.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of spice.
* **Fresh Parsley:** Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a brighter flavor and added color.
* **Different Olives:** Use a mix of different olives, such as green olives and black olives, for a variety of flavors.
* **Goat Cheese:** Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
General Tips for Using Costco Deli Green Beans in Casseroles
* **Taste Before Adding Salt:** Because Costco’s Deli Green Beans may already contain some salt, taste them before adding any additional salt to your recipe. Adjust accordingly.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooked green beans can become mushy. Be careful not to overbake the casserole. Aim for tender-crisp green beans.
* **Adjust Consistency:** If the casserole seems too dry, add a little more milk or broth. If it seems too watery, bake it for a few extra minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
* **Make Ahead:** Green bean casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the topping just before baking.
* **Freezing:** While possible, freezing green bean casserole can affect the texture. The sauce may become watery upon thawing. If you do freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before baking.
* **Portion Control:** Costco sells these green beans in bulk, so be prepared to have extra beans even after making a casserole. Consider using the leftover beans as a side dish for other meals, or incorporate them into salads or stir-fries.
Beyond Casseroles: Other Ways to Use Costco Deli Green Beans
While this article focuses on green bean casserole, don’t limit yourself! Costco’s Deli Green Beans are incredibly versatile and can be used in various other dishes:
* **Salads:** Add them to salads for a healthy and flavorful boost. They pair well with vinaigrette dressings.
* **Stir-fries:** Incorporate them into stir-fries with your favorite protein and vegetables.
* **Side Dish:** Simply reheat them as a quick and easy side dish.
* **Pasta Dishes:** Add them to pasta dishes for a touch of green.
* **Frittatas and Quiches:** Include them in frittatas and quiches for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Using Costco’s Deli Green Beans is a fantastic way to streamline your green bean casserole preparation without sacrificing flavor. These recipes offer exciting and delicious ways to elevate this classic dish, from the classic elevated with bacon, the savory garlic parmesan, the spicy sriracha, the thoughtful vegan rendition, to the bright Mediterranean twist. So, the next time you’re at Costco, grab a container of their Deli Green Beans and get ready to create a green bean casserole that will impress your family and friends.
With these recipes and tips, you’re well-equipped to create a memorable and delicious green bean casserole using the convenience of Costco’s Deli Green Beans. Happy cooking!