If you have never tried a Green Bean Pie with Ritz Cracker Pie Crust Recipe, you are in for a delightful surprise that combines fresh green beans and earthy mushrooms with a wonderfully unique and buttery Ritz cracker crust. This pie elevates a humble vegetable into a comforting, savory dish that’s perfect for family dinners or holiday tables. The crispy Ritz cracker crust adds an irresistible texture and rich flavor, making every bite impeccably delicious and memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
As simple as these ingredients might seem, each one plays an essential role in building a pie full of vibrant taste, creamy texture, and comforting warmth. From the fresh herbs to the crunchy topping, this recipe comes alive through the perfect blend of everyday kitchen staples.
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (divided): Essential for sautéing veggies and creating that rich pie crust flavor.
- 1 small sweet onion (chopped): Adds natural sweetness and a gentle depth to the filling.
- 12 oz sliced fresh mushrooms (about 3 cups): Brings earthiness and a meaty texture to the green bean mixture.
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme: Offers a subtle herbaceous note that lifts the entire dish.
- 1-1/2 lbs fresh green beans (rinsed, trimmed, and cut into bite-size pieces): The star vegetable, fresh and crisp to balance the creamy filling.
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic: Provides a fragrant punch without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 pkg cream cheese (8-oz, cut into cubes): Creates the creamy base that binds the filling with tenderness.
- 1/2 cup half and half (or whole milk): Adds richness and smoothness to the custard-like filling.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Injects a subtle umami boost that enhances the savory depth.
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper: For gentle warmth and a touch of spice.
- 1 tsp kosher salt: Balances and brightens all the flavors.
- 1 cup French fried onions: Mixed into the filling for a crispy surprise and subtle crunch.
- 11 oz Ritz crackers (about 3 sleeves or 100 crackers): The secret to the uniquely tasty and buttery pie crust.
- 1/2 cup French fried onions: Sprinkled on top for an extra crispy finish.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted): Combines with Ritz crackers to form a luscious and golden crust.
How to Make Green Bean Pie with Ritz Cracker Pie Crust Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ritz Cracker Pie Crust
Start by finely crushing the Ritz crackers until they resemble coarse sand — this creates the perfect base texture for the pie crust. Combine the crushed crackers with melted unsalted butter and mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of your pie plate to form an even crust layer. Refrigerate this crust while preparing the filling so it can set up nicely for a crisp and buttery finish.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet onion and cook until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and fresh thyme sprigs, cooking until the mushrooms release their moisture and turn golden brown. Add minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute until fragrant. This sautéed mix builds the hearty base of your pie filling, packing flavor into every bite.
Step 3: Cook the Green Beans
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the trimmed, cut green beans for about 5 minutes until crisp-tender. Drain and immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking and keep them bright green and fresh. This step ensures the green beans maintain their crunch and vibrant color inside the creamy pie.
Step 4: Combine the Filling Ingredients
Remove the thyme sprigs from the sautéed vegetable mixture and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the blanched green beans, cream cheese cubes, half and half, Worcestershire sauce, ground black pepper, kosher salt, and 1 cup of French fried onions. Stir everything gently until the cream cheese begins to melt slightly and everything is incorporated into a luscious filling.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Pie
Pour the creamy vegetable filling into the prepared Ritz cracker pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of French fried onions evenly over the pie’s surface. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden and crispy. Let the pie cool slightly before slicing — the filling firms up to make serving neat and satisfying.
How to Serve Green Bean Pie with Ritz Cracker Pie Crust Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a beautiful pop of green and freshness that complements the rich pie. You could also up the crunch factor by garnishing with a few extra French fried onions just before serving to keep that irresistible crispy texture alive.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with light and refreshing salads, mashed potatoes, or roasted root vegetables. A crisp arugula salad with a bright lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while garlic mashed potatoes add comforting creaminess to create a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider cutting the pie into small squares and serving them as savory finger foods at a potluck or brunch. Another fun idea is to pair individual mini pie portions with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche and a drizzle of herb oil for an elegant presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the leftover Green Bean Pie with Ritz Cracker Pie Crust Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, retaining that creamy filling and flaky crust texture beautifully.
Freezing
You can freeze this pie either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the pie and wrap it well with plastic wrap and foil; it will keep for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed. If freezing after baking, cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat gently to maintain crust crispness and filling creaminess.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in a 325°F (165°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy. Reheating in the oven helps restore the delightful crunch of the Ritz cracker crust and crisp topping.
FAQs
Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh?
While fresh green beans provide the best texture and flavor, you can use canned ones in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well and reduce the added salt to avoid oversalting the pie.
Is it possible to make this pie vegetarian?
Absolutely! This Green Bean Pie with Ritz Cracker Pie Crust Recipe is vegetarian as is, but ensure your Worcestershire sauce is vegetarian-friendly or substitute with soy sauce or tamari for a similar umami kick.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?
You can try using ricotta or mascarpone for a milder, softer filling, or even a blend of cream cheese and sour cream to add tanginess. Just keep the total quantity similar for the right creaminess.
How do I crush the Ritz crackers easily?
Place the crackers in a plastic bag and use a rolling pin or the bottom of a sturdy glass to crush them. Alternatively, pulse them in a food processor until coarse crumbs form.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
You’d need to substitute the Ritz crackers with a gluten-free cracker option and verify all other ingredients are gluten-free. The crust may be slightly different in texture but still delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Green Bean Pie with Ritz Cracker Pie Crust Recipe is one of those comforting, homey dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Its unique combination of fresh vegetables with a buttery, crispy Ritz crust makes it stand out in any meal lineup. Whether you’re new to savory pies or looking for a fresh twist on green beans, this recipe is an absolute must-try that’s bound to become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Green Bean Pie with Ritz Cracker Pie Crust Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Pie
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Green Bean Pie with Ritz Cracker Pie Crust is a savory, creamy vegetable pie that combines fresh green beans, mushrooms, and onions in a rich, flavorful filling. The unique Ritz cracker crust adds a buttery, crispy texture that complements the tender green bean mixture perfectly. Ideal for a delightful side dish or a vegetarian main, this recipe brings comfort and elegance to your table with a relatively simple preparation.
Ingredients
Filling
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 small sweet onion, chopped
- 12 oz sliced fresh mushrooms (about 3 cups)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1–1/2 lbs fresh green beans, rinsed, trimmed, and cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 pkg cream cheese (8-oz, cut into cubes)
- 1/2 cup half and half or whole milk
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 cup French fried onions
Pie Crust
- 11 oz Ritz crackers (about 3 sleeves or 100 crackers)
- 1/2 cup French fried onions
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Crush the Ritz crackers finely in a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and using a rolling pin. Mix the crushed crackers with 1/2 cup French fried onions and the melted 1/2 cup unsalted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form an even crust. Set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the chopped sweet onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and the sprigs of fresh thyme; cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the thyme sprigs and discard.
- Cook Green Beans and Garlic: Add the rinsed, trimmed, and cut green beans to the skillet along with 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Stir well and cook until the beans are tender-crisp, approximately 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Create the Creamy Filling: Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the cream cheese cubes and half and half (or whole milk) to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce, coating the vegetables evenly. Add Worcestershire sauce, ground black pepper, kosher salt, and adjust seasoning as desired. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld flavors.
- Combine and Assemble: Stir in 1 cup of French fried onions into the vegetable mixture. Pour this filling evenly into the prepared Ritz cracker crust. Sprinkle the top with additional French fried onions if desired for texture.
- Bake the Pie: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled pie on the middle rack and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This rest time helps the filling to set, making it easier to serve.
Notes
- You can substitute half and half with whole milk for a lighter option, but the filling will be less creamy.
- Use fresh green beans for the best texture; frozen can be used but may result in a softer filling.
- To make the crust gluten-free, substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers of similar texture and flavor.
- French fried onions provide a nice texture contrast but can be omitted for a lower-sodium version.
- This pie can be prepared a day ahead and reheated gently in the oven before serving.
