Last Updated on September 16, 2024 by Shari Mason
To truly savor a **yummy green bean casserole**, focus on more than just the beans and creamy sauce. Picking the perfect side dishes to **boost your meal experience** is just as crucial.
As a home food blogger and chef, I’ve had my fair share of experiences creating and enjoying delicious sides that can perfectly complement this creamy and savory dish.
So, what goes well with green bean casserole? Today, I’ll share some delicious options that pair wonderfully with green bean casserole, making your meal memorable.
10 Delicious Dishes That Pair Well With Green Bean Casserole
1. Fried Shrimp
Fried shrimp is a delightful choice to accompany green bean casserole. The crispy texture of the shrimp complements the creamy casserole, creating a satisfying contrast.
The mild, slightly sweet taste of shrimp [1] pairs harmoniously with the savory flavors of the casserole, making each bite a delicious experience.
“Pairing green bean casserole with the right dish is like finding the missing puzzle piece – it completes the meal perfectly.”
– Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice
Whether you want to add a touch of indulgence or enjoy the combination of textures and flavors, fried shrimp adds a delightful twist to your meal.
2. Collard Greens
Collard greens are a wholesome and nutritious side dish. These leafy greens bring a hearty, earthy flavor to the table, balancing the richness of the casserole.
They provide a satisfying contrast in taste and texture, adding a fresh and slightly bitter note to your meal.
Also, they are packed with vitamins and minerals, making this combination delicious and nutritious.
Find out why green beans spark in the microwave here.
3. Spaghetti & Meatballs
Spaghetti and meatballs may seem like something other than an obvious pairing for green bean casserole, but the combination works surprisingly well.
The tomato-based sauce and savory meatballs bring a different dimension to the meal.
Besides, the acidity of the tomato sauce cuts through the richness of the casserole, offering a refreshing contrast. The tender meatballs add protein to the meal, making it more substantial.
Together, they create a diverse and satisfying plate, offering various flavors and textures to please various palates. It’s a unique twist that can make your dinner memorable.
4. Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak, with its crispy breaded exterior and tender, juicy meat, provides a hearty and indulgent contrast to the casserole.
The rich taste of the steak enhances the creamy casserole, forming a gratifying pairing that is comforting and filling.
And the crunchy texture of the steak’s coating pairs harmoniously with the softness of the casserole.
5. Marinated Steak Bites
Marinated steak bites add flavor and protein to your green bean casserole dinner.
These bite-sized pieces of steak, marinated in herbs and spices, offer a succulent and savory experience that enhances the casserole.
The bold flavors of the steak infuse excitement into each bite, making it a unique and delightful combination.
As such, the steak’s tenderness contrasts with the casserole’s creaminess, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
6. Corn On The Cob
A classic and uncomplicated side, corn on the cob always stays in style.
Corn on the cob is a traditional and easy-to-enjoy side dish. The sweet and juicy kernels of corn bring a natural sweetness to the meal, balancing the savory notes of the casserole.
The corn’s crisp texture complements the casserole’s creamy consistency, creating a harmonious contrast.
Whether served grilled or boiled, corn on the cob adds a touch of freshness and familiarity to your dinner table.
7. Cajun Turkey
Cajun turkey is a bold and flavorful choice. This spicy and seasoned turkey adds a kick of excitement to your meal.
The Cajun spices blend herbs and heat and create a compelling contrast with the creamy casserole.
Not just that, the tender, juicy turkey meat infused with these lively flavors offers a unique dining experience.
This pairing combines the richness of the casserole with the zestiness of Cajun turkey, resulting in a harmonious balance that can satisfy those who crave a bit of spice and zest in their meal.
8. Baked Salmon
Baked salmon [2] is a healthy and elegant choice to serve alongside green bean casserole. The tender, flaky salmon provides a delicate contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Seasoned with herbs, lemon, and olive oil, the salmon’s flavors enhance the dining experience.
“There is no sincerer love than the love of food.”
– George Bernard Shaw, Irish Playwright and Critic
It’s a combination that not only pleases the palate but also adds a touch of sophistication to your meal, making it a delightful and well-rounded choice.
9. Roasted Chicken
Roasted chicken is a classic and satisfying companion. The tender, succulent chicken with its crispy skin provides a delightful contrast to the creamy casserole.
The roasted flavors of the chicken enhance the overall meal experience, offering a comforting and familiar combination.
Besides, the mildness of the chicken complements the casserole’s richness, creating a well-rounded plate.
10. Kielbasa
Kielbasa, a flavorful Polish sausage, pairs exceptionally well with green bean casserole. Its smoky and savory profile adds depth and richness to the meal.
When sliced and pan-fried, the kielbasa crispy exterior and juicy interior create a delightful textural contrast with the creamy casserole.
The robust flavors of the sausage complement the dish without overpowering it, resulting in a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.
Also Read: Simple Steps To Make Frozen Green Beans Taste Good
FAQs
What foods pair nicely with green beans?
Green beans pair nicely with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside classic beef and pork meatloaf for a hearty meal.
If you prefer something with an Italian flair, try them with chicken sausage pasta. But how can you dehydrate green beans?
Why do people like green bean casserole?
People like green bean casserole because it’s simple, inexpensive, and can be prepared beforehand.
This classic dish combines affordable ingredients into a comforting, flavorful side dish.
Is it better to use canned or fresh beans for green bean casserole?
It’s better to use fresh green beans for green bean casserole. While canned green beans can be used, fresh ones are the top choice. If you opt for canned beans, drain them before using.
The Takeaway
In my experience, combining green bean casserole, roast chicken, collard greens, and baked salmon creates a diverse and delectable meal.
Featuring crispy skin and tender meat, the roast chicken provides a classic and comforting element that pairs effortlessly with the creamy casserole.
Collard greens add a hearty and slightly bitter note, balancing the richness of the casserole with their earthy flavors.
Baked salmon, seasoned with herbs and lemon, brings elegance and a touch of healthiness to the plate.
These dishes create a well-rounded feast catering to different tastes and preferences.
References:
- https://www.health.com/nutrition/calories-in-shrimp
- https://share.upmc.com/2023/04/health-benefits-of-salmon/
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