The holiday season is officially here! Whether you’re decking the halls or tackling a mile-long to-do list, one thing is sure: the busiest time of the year calls for clever shortcuts, especially in the kitchen.
If you’re looking for an effortless way to elevate your holiday feast, Costco has just the solution—a heat-and-eat casserole that’s perfect for any festive table.
From its famous $5.99 pumpkin pie to affordable ingredients like chicken broth for stuffing or Ritz crackers for creamy casseroles, Costco has long been the go-to destination for holiday meal planning.
But its latest offering might just be the ultimate time-saver: a pre-made green bean casserole that looks and tastes like you made it from scratch.
Why Costco’s Green Bean Casserole Is a Holiday Hit
Costco’s new green bean casserole in the pre-made meal section is everything you love about this holiday classic. It is topped with crispy French-fried onions and packed with tender green beans, ready to heat and serve.
The casserole weighs nearly three and a half pounds and is big enough to feed a crowd, making it perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy holiday dinner at home. While it stays true to the traditional recipe, one twist is sparking a bit of debate—Costco’s version includes red bell peppers.
The Red Bell Pepper Debate
Including red bell peppers has caused a stir among green bean casserole purists. While some argue it’s an unwelcome addition, others appreciate the extra pop of color and flavor.
“Red peppers do not belong in green bean casserole,” one commenter declared, while another joked, “We need to remove them!”
Still, others are embracing the change. “It’s just one more veggie—it makes it healthier, right?” said one fan.
Whether you love or loathe the red peppers, they’re easy to spot, so if you prefer a more traditional dish, you can pick them out before serving.
How to Serve Costco’s Green Bean Casserole
One of the best things about this casserole is its easy preparation and serving. It comes in a ready-made tray, but you can transfer it to your casserole dish before heating it for an added touch of homemade charm.
The French fried onions are packaged separately, so you can add them after transferring the casserole to your dish, ensuring they stay perfectly crispy. Once it’s heated, all that’s left is to decide whether to take the credit or proudly share your Costco secret.
Why It’s a Must-Have for Busy Holiday Cooks
If you’re juggling a full schedule this holiday season, Costco’s green bean casserole can save you time without sacrificing taste. Here’s why it’s worth adding to your shopping list:
- Convenience: No peeling, chopping, or mixing required—just heat and serve.
- Affordability: At Costco prices, you get a generous portion without breaking the bank.
- Versatility: This dish works as a side for everything from roasted turkey to ham.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Crispy onions and tender beans make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Tips for Personalizing Your Costco Casserole
Want to make the dish your own? Here are a few ideas:
- Add Extra Toppings: Sprinkle shredded cheese or bacon bits on top before heating for added flavor.
- Spice It Up: Mix garlic powder or black pepper in a dash to enhance the seasoning.
- Customize the Veggies: If red bell peppers aren’t your thing, add mushrooms or water chestnuts instead.
Other Holiday Finds at Costco
Costco is a treasure trove of holiday goodies, from main courses to desserts. While you’re there, don’t forget to pick up there:
- Pumpkin Pie: A holiday favorite, perfect for dessert at just $5.99.
- Spiral Ham: A juicy and flavorful centerpiece for your table.
- Affordable Ingredients: Stock up on essentials like chicken broth, spices, and more for under $10.
Conclusion
Costco’s heat-and-eat green bean casserole is a lifesaver for busy holiday cooks. Whether you’re a fan of the red bell pepper twist or prefer a more traditional approach, this ready-made dish takes the hassle out of holiday prep while delivering delicious results.
So, grab a tray (or two) next time you’re at Costco and let it work its magic on your holiday table. Whether you decide to keep it your little secret or share the Costco love, one thing’s for sure—your guests will return for seconds!
FAQs
How much does Costco’s green bean casserole cost?
The price may vary slightly depending on your location, but it’s typically affordable for a side dish big enough to serve a large group.
How do you prepare the casserole?
Heat it in the provided tray or transfer it to your casserole dish for a homemade touch. The French fried onions are packaged separately so that you can add them after heating.
Does the casserole include any unusual ingredients?
Costco’s version includes red bell peppers, which are not part of the traditional green bean casserole recipe.
Can I customize the casserole?
Absolutely! You can add cheese, bacon, or extra spices to make it your own. You can also swap out the red peppers for other vegetables.
Is the casserole suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the green bean casserole is vegetarian-friendly. Just double-check the ingredient list to ensure it meets your dietary preferences.
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