Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic side dish everyone loves. This easy homemade recipe combines tender green beans, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese for a crowd-pleasing comfort food that’s simple to make. With simple pantry staples and quick steps, you can have this rich, flavorful casserole ready in under 40 minutes. Pair it with my creamy mushroom pork chops recipe for a hearty meal.
Why You'll Love Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole - Easy Homemade Comfort Side Dish
Enjoy this easy, homemade Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole packed with crispy bacon and melty cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday sides!
- Crunchy bacon adds irresistible smoky flavor
- Creamy, cheesy sauce hugs tender green beans perfectly
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients and minimal fuss
- Great for family dinners, potlucks, and holidays
Ingredients for Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole - Easy Homemade Comfort Side Dish
Green beans: Fresh is best for crisp texture; frozen green beans can be substituted but may release more moisture.Bacon: Choose thick-cut for extra crunch; turkey bacon works for a leaner version.
- Green beans: Fresh is best for crisp texture; frozen green beans can be substituted but may release more moisture.
- Bacon: Choose thick-cut for extra crunch; turkey bacon works for a leaner version.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole - Easy Homemade Comfort Side Dish are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole - Easy Homemade Comfort Side Dish
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Prepare green beans: Blanch green beans in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Cook bacon and sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving bacon fat in the pan. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Mix casserole filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir in blanched green beans, cooked onion and garlic, and half of the crispy bacon. Mix well.
Expert Tips for Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole - Easy Homemade Comfort Side Dish
- Don’t overcook green beans; they should remain slightly crisp for best texture.
- Save some crispy bacon and fried onions to sprinkle on top for added crunch.
- Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor; mild cheddar will work but be less intense.
Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole - Easy Homemade Comfort Side Dish
Enjoy this easy, homemade Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole packed with crispy bacon and melty cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday sides!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Toppings
- 1 cup French fried onions or crispy breadcrumbs for topping
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
How to Make Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole
- Prepare green beans: Blanch green beans in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
- Cook bacon and sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving bacon fat in the pan. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Mix casserole filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir in blanched green beans, cooked onion and garlic, and half of the crispy bacon. Mix well.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Transfer mixture to a greased 9x9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and remaining bacon on top. Optional: add French fried onions or breadcrumbs. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
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 Homemade Comfort Side Dish FAQs
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the day before and refrigerate it. Add the topping and bake right before serving for best results.
Turkey bacon or smoked ham can be used as healthier alternatives. For a vegetarian option, omit bacon and add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or microwave until hot.
Overcooked green beans or too much moisture from frozen beans can cause sogginess. Blanch fresh green beans properly and drain well to prevent this.
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