Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole is a classic comfort food with a deliciously crispy twist. This homemade side dish combines tender green beans, crispy bacon, and a creamy mushroom sauce for a family-friendly meal. It’s easy to make with pantry staples and perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts. For an easy protein pairing, try it alongside my Creamy Mushroom Pork Chops Recipe for a hearty dinner everyone will love.
Why You'll Love Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole - Easy, Comforting Homemade Side Dish
Easy Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole packed with crispy bacon and creamy sauce. Perfect homemade comfort food side dish for weeknights or holidays.
- Loaded with crispy bacon and creamy mushroom sauce for rich flavor
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients and minimal fuss
- Perfect comforting side for any occasion—weeknights, holidays, or potlucks
- Uses fresh or frozen green beans and pantry staples for convenience
Ingredients for Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole - Easy, Comforting Homemade Side Dish
Green Beans: Fresh green beans give the best texture, but frozen thawed beans work well for convenience.Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds crunch and flavor; you can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Green Beans: Fresh green beans give the best texture, but frozen thawed beans work well for convenience.
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds crunch and flavor; you can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole - Easy, Comforting Homemade Side Dish are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole - Easy, Comforting Homemade Side Dish
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon bits and drain on paper towels, leaving 1-2 tablespoons bacon fat in the pan.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Sauté vegetables: Add olive oil or butter if needed. Sauté onions until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and mushrooms, cooking until mushrooms release moisture and turn golden, about 5 minutes.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Make the creamy sauce: Stir in Dijon mustard and smoked paprika. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Expert Tips for Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole - Easy, Comforting Homemade Side Dish
- Trim green beans and blanch them for 2 minutes to keep them crisp if preferred.
- Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the cream for deeper flavor.
Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole - Easy, Comforting Homemade Side Dish
Easy Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole packed with crispy bacon and creamy sauce. Perfect homemade comfort food side dish for weeknights or holidays.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and halved (or frozen, thawed)
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or white button)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup French fried onions (for topping)
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
Optional Toppings
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
- Extra crispy bacon bits
Instructions
How to Make Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole
- Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon bits and drain on paper towels, leaving 1-2 tablespoons bacon fat in the pan.
- Sauté vegetables: Add olive oil or butter if needed. Sauté onions until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and mushrooms, cooking until mushrooms release moisture and turn golden, about 5 minutes.
- Make the creamy sauce: Stir in Dijon mustard and smoked paprika. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine and bake: Toss green beans and crispy bacon in the sauce. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar and French fried onions. Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes, then broil 2-3 minutes until onions are golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Nutrition (per serving)
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended (texture changes).
- Serve/Reheat: Best chilled or at room temperature.
Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole - Easy, Comforting Homemade Side Dish FAQs
Yes! Prepare the casserole fully but wait to add the fried onions and cheese topping until just before baking to keep them crispy.
Use half-and-half or full-fat milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to thicken, though the sauce will be less rich.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Overcooking or using too much cream can cause sogginess. Try blanching beans first and use less cream for a firmer texture.
You Might Also Like
- Pair it with my Creamy Mushroom Pork Chops Recipe
- Try this with my Marry Me Chicken Ramen for a filling dinner
Before You Go
If you try this Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole - Easy, Comforting Homemade Side Dish, I’d love for you to leave a rating or share how you customized it.