Green Bean and Onion Casserole With Toasted Almonds

The family loves this dressed-up version of a traditional green bean casserole.  I substitute prepared onion dip, for the plain sour cream, because I like the subtle onion flavor.  The almonds taste great, and add a wonderful bit of crunch!


2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup onion, diced
1 cup sour cream, or french onion dip made with real sour cream
3 (14.5 once) cans of green beans (I used 2 quarts of home-canned Italian green beans), drained
1/4 cup diced pimento, drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup French's brand french fried onions (in a small can)
1/2 cup sliced almonds

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Saute diced onion in butter until soft.  Blend in flour until smooth, and cook on low for one minute (add another tablespoon of butter if needed).  Stir in salt and sour cream/onion dip.  Add beans and pimento, and stir to coat.

Transfer mixture to a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish.  Sprinkle cheese over bean mixture.  Top with the fried onions and almonds.

Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until top is golden and bubbly.