Loaded Green Bean Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for a twist on the classic green bean casserole, this Loaded Green Bean Casserole is the perfect choice! This dish takes the traditional casserole and elevates it by adding bacon, cheese, and even more flavor. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with all the goodies—crispy fried onions, melted cheddar cheese, and smoky bacon bits. This casserole is a showstopper for holiday dinners or any family meal where you want to impress. Read on for the full recipe, along with tips, substitutions, and delicious variations.

What is Loaded Green Bean Casserole?

Loaded Green Bean Casserole is a heartier, more indulgent version of the traditional green bean casserole. In addition to the classic green beans and cream of mushroom soup, this casserole is "loaded" with bacon, cheddar cheese, and extra crispy fried onions. The bacon adds smokiness, while the cheese adds creaminess and a rich flavor, making it the ultimate comfort food side dish. Whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this dish will leave your guests asking for seconds.

Ingredients List for Loaded Green Bean Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this mouthwatering casserole:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans: Trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces. You can also use frozen or canned green beans.
• 6 slices bacon: Cooked and crumbled. Adds smokiness and flavor.
• 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of mushroom soup: The base of the casserole.
• 1 cup milk: To thin out the cream of mushroom soup.
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Adds a touch of umami and depth.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Divided. Cheddar cheese brings creamy, cheesy goodness.
• 1 ½ cups French fried onions: Divided. These crispy onions are essential for the perfect texture and flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.

Substitutions and Variations

This Loaded Green Bean Casserole recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.

Substitutions:

• Ground sausage or turkey bacon: If you prefer something lighter or different, swap the bacon for turkey bacon or ground sausage.
• Frozen or canned green beans: Frozen green beans can be thawed and used directly, or you can drain canned green beans for a quicker option.
• Cream of chicken or celery soup: If you're not a fan of mushroom, use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead.
• Vegan option: Use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup, plant-based cheese, and vegan bacon for a completely plant-based version.

Variations:

• Spicy twist: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little kick.
• Extra cheesy: For a creamier version, stir in ½ cup cream cheese or more shredded cheese into the casserole mixture.
• Caramelized onions: Replace the fried onions with homemade caramelized onions for an extra sweet and savory twist.
• Loaded baked potato style: Mix in some mashed potatoes along with the green beans for a heartier, "loaded baked potato" casserole.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This Loaded Green Bean Casserole comes together easily in just a few steps. Here's how to make it:

Step 1: Prep the Green Beans

1. Blanch the fresh green beans: If using fresh beans, trim and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Boil a large pot of salted water, add the green beans, and cook for 4-5 minutes until they are crisp-tender. Immediately transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking, then drain and set aside.
2. For frozen green beans: Thaw and drain them before using.
3. For canned green beans: Drain and rinse them well.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 7-8 minutes.
2. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain, then crumble or chop into pieces.

Step 3: Make the Casserole Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until smooth and well combined.
2. Stir in the blanched green beans, crumbled bacon (reserve a little for topping), and ½ cup of the French fried onions.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
2. Pour the green bean mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly.
3. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted.

Step 5: Add the Toppings and Bake

1. After 25 minutes, remove the foil from the casserole and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of French fried onions and reserved crumbled bacon over the top.
2. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, until the onions are crispy and golden brown.
3. If desired, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes to get the topping extra crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or herbs if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or a main course!

How to Cook Loaded Green Bean Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Blanch the green beans (or thaw/drain frozen or canned beans).
2. Cook the bacon until crispy and crumble.
3. Mix the casserole filling with cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheese, and fried onions.
4. Bake the casserole at 350°F for 25 minutes.
5. Add the crispy onion and bacon topping and bake for another 5-10 minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not draining the green beans: If using canned green beans, make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
• Overcooking the green beans: If you’re using fresh green beans, don’t overcook them during blanching. You want them to be crisp-tender so they don’t turn mushy in the casserole.
• Skipping the topping: The bacon and fried onion topping adds texture and flavor, so don’t skip it!

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Loaded Green Bean Casserole is a showstopper for holiday meals, but it’s also a great side dish for any dinner. Here are some ways to serve and present it:

How to Serve Loaded Green Bean Casserole:

• Family-style: Serve directly from the baking dish for a casual and cozy meal.
• Holiday feasts: This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib, making it a perfect side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.
• Weeknight dinner: Pair it with roast chicken, pork chops, or even grilled steak for a comforting, hearty meal.

Presentation Ideas for Loaded Green Bean Casserole:

• Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or fresh thyme to add a pop of color.
• For an extra decadent presentation, drizzle the top with melted cheese right before serving.
• Serve in a cast-iron skillet or a decorative casserole dish to add a rustic touch to the meal.

Loaded Green Bean Casserole Recipe Tips

• Prep ahead: You can assemble the casserole (without the crispy onions) the night before. Store it in the fridge and bake it when ready to serve. Add the fried onions and bacon right before the second bake.
• Make it creamier: For an extra creamy texture, add a couple of tablespoons of sour cream or cream cheese to the casserole mixture before baking.
• Double the recipe: If you’re serving a large crowd, this recipe doubles easily. Just use a larger baking dish or make two casseroles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the casserole (without adding the crispy onions and bacon topping), cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, follow the instructions, adding the topping in the last few minutes of baking.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble the casserole without the crispy onions and bacon topping, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking. Add the fried onions and bacon before the final bake.

Can I make this without bacon?

Yes, you can omit the bacon for a meatless version or replace it with turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Conclusion

This Loaded Green Bean Casserole is a rich, cheesy, and indulgent version of the classic holiday favorite. With layers of creamy green beans, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and crunchy fried onions, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit at your next family gathering or special occasion. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, freeing up time and oven space during busy holiday meals. Whether you’re serving it alongside roast turkey, ham, or a weeknight roast, this loaded casserole will be the star of the meal.

Now that you know how to make this ultimate comfort food, grab your ingredients and treat your family to this Loaded Green Bean Casserole—they’ll be coming back for seconds!

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