Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon is the ultimate comfort food that will make your taste buds dance and your heart sing. Imagine fresh green beans tangled in a creamy, cheesy sauce, topped with crispy bacon and a generous sprinkle of crunchy fried onions. It’s like a warm hug from your grandma, but without the awkward family drama.
Growing up, my family had a tradition of making this casserole during holiday gatherings. The moment I’d smell that savory, cheesy aroma wafting through the house, I knew it was going to be a feast to remember. This dish brings back memories of laughter, love, and way too much food. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a random Tuesday night when you crave some serious comfort food, this Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon is sure to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon is incredibly easy to prepare, making dinner stress-free
- The delightful combination of creamy cheese and crispy bacon creates an irresistible flavor profile
- Its vibrant colors and appealing texture will make it the star of any table
- Perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners, it’s versatile enough to adapt to various dietary preferences
Ingredients for Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Green Beans: Use about 1 pound of fresh green beans; they should be bright green and firm for the best texture.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Opt for low-sodium varieties to control salt intake while adding creaminess.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A sharp cheddar works wonders for flavor; about 2 cups should do the trick.
Bacon: Four strips of crispy bacon add crunch and smoky goodness; feel free to use turkey bacon if you prefer.
Fried Onions: Store-bought fried onions not only add texture but also an extra layer of flavor; about one cup will suffice.
Garlic Powder: A teaspoon enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grab a baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare Your Green Beans
Wash and trim your fresh green beans. You want them looking sharp—no floppy beans allowed! Boil them in salted water for about five minutes until they’re tender but still crisp.
Step 3: Cook That Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook those bacon strips until they’re crispy (about 5-7 minutes). Once cooked, remove them from the pan and let them cool on paper towels before crumbling into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Mix It All Together
In a large bowl, combine the blanched green beans, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese (saving some for topping), garlic powder, and half of your crispy bacon. Stir well until everything is coated in cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Bake It Up
Transfer this glorious mixture into your prepared baking dish. Top it off with the remaining shredded cheese and sprinkle on those crispy fried onions along with the rest of the bacon bits. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. Every bite offers that perfect balance of creamy richness mixed with crunchy toppings—utter perfection!
There you have it! Your very own Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon—ideal for any occasion or just because you deserve something delicious today! So gather around your table (maybe even invite some friends), serve up generous portions, and watch as everyone digs in with glee!
You Must Know
- This cheesy green bean casserole with bacon is not just a side dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings smiles to any gathering
- The combination of creamy goodness and crispy bacon elevates your holiday dinner or weeknight meal from ordinary to unforgettable
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the bacon until crispy, then remove it, leaving some drippings in the pan. Sauté onions in those drippings, add green beans, and combine everything in a casserole dish before baking for 25-30 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out green beans for broccoli or even asparagus if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add a sprinkle of crushed garlic for an extra flavor boost.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cheesy green bean casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring the cheese remains gooey and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a perfect cheesy green bean casserole with bacon, remember to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor
- Avoid overcooking the green beans to retain their crunchiness
- If making ahead of time, assemble but bake just before serving to keep it fresh
The first time I made this cheesy green bean casserole with bacon for Thanksgiving, my family devoured it faster than I could say “seconds!” It became an instant favorite and now graces our table every year.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon?
To make Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon, you will need fresh green beans, crispy bacon, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, and fried onion rings. You can also add garlic powder and black pepper for extra flavor. Make sure to have these ingredients ready before starting your cooking process for the best results.
How long does it take to prepare Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon?
The preparation time for Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon is about 15 minutes. After preparing the ingredients and mixing them together, the casserole typically bakes in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes. This makes it a quick and delicious option for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.
Can I make Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon ahead of time. Assemble the casserole completely and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for meal prep or when you’re hosting guests.
What are some variations of Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon?
There are several variations you can try with Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon. For a healthier version, consider using low-fat cream of mushroom soup or adding more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. You can also substitute bacon with turkey bacon or add different types of cheese like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist.
Conclusion for Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon:
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon is a delightful dish that combines fresh green beans, creamy soup, crispy bacon, and melted cheese into a comforting meal. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or holiday celebrations. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this casserole will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, guaranteed to elevate any meal. Fresh green beans are enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce, complemented by crispy bacon and topped with crunchy fried onions. This dish not only serves as a delightful side for holiday feasts but also shines on weeknights when you crave something satisfying. Quick and simple to prepare, this casserole will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans
- 1 can (10.5 oz) low-sodium cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup store-bought fried onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Wash and trim green beans, then boil in salted water for about 5 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from pan and crumble.
- In a large bowl, mix the blanched green beans, cream of mushroom soup, reserved cheese, garlic powder, and half the crumbled bacon.
- Pour into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheese, fried onions, and bacon bits. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (99g)
- Calories: 233
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 24mg
