Introduction
Few side dishes capture the warmth of home-cooked comfort quite like a green bean casserole with bacon. The savory aroma of crispy bacon blending with creamy mushroom sauce and tender green beans creates a dish that feels both indulgent and familiar. Each bite offers a delightful balance of freshness from the beans, richness from the sauce, and a satisfying crunch from the topping. It is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, no matter the occasion. Whether served during the holidays or as part of a cozy family meal, this casserole carries a sense of nostalgia that never goes out of style.
What makes this recipe stand out is the addition of bacon, which adds a smoky and salty depth that transforms the classic green bean casserole into something extraordinary. The bacon flavor weaves through every layer, enhancing the creamy base and crunchy finish. It feels homemade yet refined, rustic yet elegant. Preparing it is simple, and the end result is always impressive. Once you serve this dish, it will likely become a permanent addition to your menu year after year.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh green beans (trimmed) | 1 pound | 140 |
| Bacon strips (cooked and crumbled) | 6 slices | 270 |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | 220 |
| Milk | 3/4 cup | 90 |
| Fried onions | 1 1/2 cups | 240 |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | 2 |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon | 2 |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon | 100 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Shredded cheddar cheese (optional) | 1/2 cup | 110 |
Total approximate calories per serving: 270
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a baking dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook them for about five minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp. Remove it from the pan, place it on paper towels to drain, and crumble once cooled. Leave a small amount of bacon grease in the pan for added flavor.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk, whisking gently to create a smooth and creamy sauce.
Step 5: Add garlic powder and black pepper to the sauce, letting the flavors blend for a minute or two over low heat.
Step 6: Combine the cooked green beans, most of the crumbled bacon, and half of the fried onions in the sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 7: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
Step 8: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top if you want extra richness, then layer the remaining fried onions and bacon for a crispy finish.
Step 9: Bake the casserole in the oven for twenty-five to thirty minutes or until the top turns golden and bubbly.
Step 10: Let it rest for five minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Experimenting with this casserole allows you to tailor it to your own taste. For a lighter version, replace the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade blend of sautéed mushrooms and low-fat milk. If you prefer a bit of spice, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
Those who enjoy a more indulgent dish can stir in grated Parmesan cheese or top it with buttery breadcrumbs for an extra crunch. Vegetarians can easily adapt the recipe by skipping the bacon and using smoked paprika or liquid smoke to recreate the flavor. Adding caramelized onions or roasted garlic also elevates the overall taste. Every small change gives this traditional favorite a unique twist without losing its comforting essence.
Nutritional Information
A single serving of green bean casserole with bacon typically contains:
- Calories: 270
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fat: 19 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
These values can vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used. To reduce calories, opt for low-fat soup and bake the bacon instead of frying it.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, baked chicken, or even grilled steak. For a complete meal, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or a simple salad with lemon vinaigrette. During holidays, it fits perfectly between stuffing and cranberry sauce, adding a creamy and savory touch to the plate.
It can also be enjoyed as a standalone comfort dish during busy weeknights. Leftovers reheat well and taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving adds brightness to the rich flavors.
Conclusion
A green bean casserole with bacon is a dish that never fails to satisfy. It carries the perfect mix of freshness, creaminess, and crisp texture, creating harmony in every bite. Preparing it feels rewarding, especially when you see family and friends return for seconds. The blend of smoky bacon, creamy sauce, and tender beans makes it both comforting and memorable.
Cooking this casserole brings a sense of warmth to your kitchen and joy to your table. It turns simple ingredients into something truly special, reminding you why traditional recipes endure through generations. Whether shared during festive dinners or quiet evenings, this dish will always deliver that cozy, homemade feeling everyone loves.
