Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish combining tender green beans with crispy bacon and a creamy, savory sauce. This homemade casserole is easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight or holiday side. The crispy bacon bits add irresistible texture, while the creamy base ties it all together with rich flavor. Pair it with my Marry Me Chicken Ramen for a cozy, balanced meal that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole – Easy, Comforting, Family-Friendly Side Dish
Enjoy this easy Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole recipe with crispy bacon and creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or weeknight comfort food.
- Loaded with crispy bacon for a smoky, savory twist on a classic side.
- Creamy, cheesy sauce complements fresh green beans perfectly.
- Ready in under 45 minutes for busy weeknights or holiday feasts.
- Uses pantry staples and simple ingredients for easy meal prep.
Ingredients for Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole – Easy, Comforting, Family-Friendly Side Dish
Green beans: Use fresh snap beans for best texture; frozen can be used but may be softer.Bacon: Thick-cut preferred for crunch; turkey bacon is a leaner substitute.
- Green beans: Use fresh snap beans for best texture; frozen can be used but may be softer.
- Bacon: Thick-cut preferred for crunch; turkey bacon is a leaner substitute.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole – Easy, Comforting, Family-Friendly Side Dish are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole – Easy, Comforting, Family-Friendly Side Dish
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove bacon bits with a slotted spoon onto paper towels; drain excess fat but leave about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet with bacon fat, add butter, then sauté onions and mushrooms until softened and golden, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute, stirring constantly.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Make the sauce: Sprinkle flour over the veggies and stir to coat well. Slowly pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking to avoid lumps. Add salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Cook, stirring often, until sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Expert Tips for Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole – Easy, Comforting, Family-Friendly Side Dish
- Make sure not to overcook green beans before baking to keep them crisp-tender.
- Reserve some bacon and onions for a crunchy topping for added texture.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a bold, tangy flavor that melts beautifully.
Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole – Easy, Comforting, Family-Friendly Side Dish
Enjoy this easy Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole recipe with crispy bacon and creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or weeknight comfort food.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut in half
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
Optional Toppings
- 1/2 cup French fried onions
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
How to Make Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole
- Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove bacon bits with a slotted spoon onto paper towels; drain excess fat but leave about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet with bacon fat, add butter, then sauté onions and mushrooms until softened and golden, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute, stirring constantly.
- Make the sauce: Sprinkle flour over the veggies and stir to coat well. Slowly pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking to avoid lumps. Add salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Cook, stirring often, until sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine and bake: Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the green beans, bacon bits (reserve some for topping), shredded cheddar, and creamy sauce. Transfer mixture to a greased 8x8 inch baking dish.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. If desired, sprinkle French fried onions and reserved bacon on top and bake 5 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and serve warm alongside your favorite main dishes.
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, Family-Friendly Side Dish FAQs
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it. Add crunchy toppings just before baking.
Use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour for a lighter sauce.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Overcooking green beans before baking or using too much liquid can make it soggy. Use firm beans and avoid excess sauce.
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- cozy Marry Me Chicken Ramen
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Before You Go
If you try this Bacon Loaded Green Bean Casserole – Easy, Comforting, Family-Friendly Side Dish, I’d love for you to leave a rating or share how you customized it.