If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping side that’s sneakily comforting yet a bit unexpected, this Green Bean Pie with Ritz Cracker Crust Recipe is a total game changer. It combines fresh green beans and earthy mushrooms in a creamy, savory filling, all wrapped up in a delightfully buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker crust. This dish brings a fresh twist to green bean casserole traditions, layering textures and flavors that keep everyone coming back for more. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a festive occasion, this pie is both familiar and exciting, making it a perfect centerpiece for any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but each one plays a crucial role in making this Green Bean Pie with Ritz Cracker Crust Recipe flavorful and textured. From crisp green beans to melted butter, every element makes this recipe pop with freshness and comfort.
- Unsalted butter (4 Tbsp divided): Essential for sautéing and adding richness throughout the dish.
- Small sweet onion (1, chopped): Adds natural sweetness and depth to the filling.
- Sliced fresh mushrooms (12 oz): Brings earthiness and umami, balancing the brightness of beans.
- Fresh thyme (2 sprigs): Offers a subtle herbal note that complements the creamy filling.
- Fresh green beans (1.5 lbs): The star of the dish, providing crunch and vibrant color.
- Minced garlic (1 Tbsp): Infuses warmth and aromatic flavor.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, cubed): Creates a silky, luscious texture in the filling.
- Half and half (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp): Heightens savoriness with a touch of tang.
- Ground black pepper (1/2 tsp): Gives just enough spice to wake up the palate.
- Kosher salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the ingredients’ natural flavors beautifully.
- French fried onions (1 cup, plus 1/2 cup for topping): Provide crunch and that classic green bean casserole vibe inside and on top.
- Ritz crackers (11 oz, about 100 crackers): Crushed to make the buttery, crisp pie crust that makes this dish unique.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup melted): Binds the cracker crust and delivers a golden finish.
How to Make Green Bean Pie with Ritz Cracker Crust Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ritz Cracker Crust
Start by crushing the Ritz crackers finely, almost like bread crumbs. Then, combine them with the melted butter, stirring until everything feels evenly coated and holds together when pressed. Press this mixture firmly into your pie dish to create a buttery, crispy crust that’s ready to cradle the savory filling.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant. Toss in the sliced mushrooms along with the fresh thyme sprigs, cooking until the mushrooms soften and release their earthy juices. This step builds the rich, savory foundation of the filling.
Step 3: Cook the Green Beans and Garlic
Add the trimmed, cut green beans and minced garlic to the skillet, stirring to coat everything with buttery goodness. Cook until the green beans are tender but still have a slight snap, preserving their bright color and fresh texture. Be sure to remove the thyme sprigs before moving to the next step.
Step 4: Mix the Creamy Filling
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese cubes, half and half, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and kosher salt. Let the cream cheese soften and melt while stirring gently until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and completely blended. Fold in the cup of French fried onions last, for that unexpected crunch inside the pie.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the luscious filling into the prepared Ritz cracker crust and gently spread it out to an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of French fried onions over the top for a golden, crispy finish. Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes until the top is bubbly and crispy, and the filling is set beautifully.
How to Serve Green Bean Pie with Ritz Cracker Crust Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh contrast against the creamy pie, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top just before serving. These bright green herbs add a lovely pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This green bean pie pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or chicken for a holiday meal, or alongside simple dishes like grilled pork chops or baked tofu during the week. Consider offering a crisp salad or roasted root vegetables to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins with a mini Ritz cracker crust for elegant single servings. Or transform leftovers into hand pies by stuffing filling into small rounds of the cracker crust dough and baking until golden brown for a portable twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Green Bean Pie with Ritz Cracker Crust Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked pie wrapped carefully in plastic wrap and foil for up to one month. Bake it directly from frozen, adding extra baking time to ensure it’s heated through and crisp on top.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust from becoming soggy and losing its delightful crunch.
FAQs
Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh for this pie?
While fresh green beans offer the best texture and flavor, you can use canned green beans in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well and reduce cooking time since canned beans are already soft.
Is there a substitute for the Ritz cracker crust?
If you don’t have Ritz crackers, buttery crackers like Club crackers can work, or you could try a traditional pie crust, though it will change the texture and flavor profile.
Can this pie be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just double-check that your Worcestershire sauce is vegetarian-friendly or substitute it with soy sauce or tamari for a similar umami kick.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use plant-based cream cheese and a non-dairy milk such as oat or almond milk instead of half and half. Also, swap butter with vegan butter or coconut oil to keep the crust crisp and buttery.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, pour it into the crust and add the topping, then bake as directed. This helps save time on busy days.
Final Thoughts
This Green Bean Pie with Ritz Cracker Crust Recipe is such a delightful surprise that effortlessly elevates your green bean game. It blends freshness, creaminess, and crunch in a dish that’s both nostalgic and exciting. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your new favorite tradition — it’s truly a keeper that sparks joy at every bite!
