Loaded Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Take your classic green bean casserole to the next level with this Loaded Green Bean Casserole! By adding cheese, bacon, and extra flavor boosters, this indulgent twist on the traditional green bean casserole turns it into a rich, flavorful dish that's sure to steal the spotlight at any meal. This creamy, cheesy, and bacon-packed recipe is perfect for holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just about any family gathering where comfort food is appreciated. Follow this recipe for a delicious, loaded version of green bean casserole that your guests will love!

this Recipe

What Is Loaded Green Bean Casserole?

A Loaded Green Bean Casserole builds upon the classic green bean casserole, which traditionally features green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. In this loaded version, we amp up the flavor with crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and even more crispy onions. The result is a decadent, savory, and comforting dish that still honors the original but with a lot more richness and texture. It’s the perfect side dish for any feast, packed with flavors that will satisfy every palate.

Ingredients List for Loaded Green Bean Casserole

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to make Loaded Green Bean Casserole:

• Fresh Green Beans: 1 ½ pounds, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces. Fresh is best for texture, but you can also use frozen green beans (thawed and drained).
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: 2 cans (10.5 ounces each). This is the creamy base of the casserole.
• Sour Cream: ½ cup. Adds extra creaminess and a slight tang.
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 ½ cups shredded, divided. Cheddar gives the dish a sharp, cheesy flavor.
• Bacon: 6 slices, cooked and crumbled. The smoky bacon adds a salty crunch and loads of flavor.
• Milk: ½ cup. This helps thin the cream of mushroom soup for a creamy consistency.
• Crispy Fried Onions: 1 ½ cups, divided. Half will be mixed into the casserole, and the rest will top it for that signature crunchy texture.
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon. Adds extra savory depth.
• Ground Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, or to taste.
• Chives: 2 tablespoons chopped (optional). For garnish and a mild oniony kick.
• Butter: 1 tablespoon, optional, for greasing the casserole dish.

Substitutions and Variations

Customize this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs with these substitutions and variations:

• Green Beans: If you don’t have fresh green beans, frozen green beans work well. Simply thaw and drain them thoroughly before using. Canned green beans can also be used but will result in a softer texture.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use a plant-based cream soup, like cream of celery.
• Cheese Substitution: For a different flavor, try swapping the cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of cheeses.
• Spicy Kick: Add a little heat with ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce mixed into the cream base.
• Herb Upgrade: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the casserole for a fragrant boost.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make Loaded Green Bean Casserole step by step:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter or grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Green Beans:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed and cut green beans and blanch them for 3-4 minutes, until tender-crisp. Drain and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
3. Cook the Bacon:
   In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon and set aside.
4. Mix the Casserole Base:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed and smooth.
5. Add Cheese and Bacon:
   Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, and ½ cup of crispy fried onions into the cream mixture. This adds extra layers of flavor throughout the casserole.
6. Combine with Green Beans:
   Gently fold the blanched green beans into the creamy mixture until they are evenly coated.
7. Transfer to the Casserole Dish:
   Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Top with Cheese and Bacon:
   Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the rest of the crumbled bacon.
9. Bake:
   Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the mixture is bubbly and the cheese has melted.
10. Add Crispy Fried Onions:
    Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of crispy fried onions evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
11. Serve:
    Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped chives, if desired, and serve hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Green Beans: Make sure to blanch the green beans just until they are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Overcooked green beans will become mushy in the casserole.
• Not Draining the Green Beans: If you use canned or frozen green beans, make sure they are well-drained to avoid a watery casserole.
• Burning the Onions: Keep an eye on the fried onions during the last few minutes of baking. They can burn quickly if left in the oven for too long.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Here are some ways to make this loaded casserole look as good as it tastes:

• Serve Family-Style: Place the casserole dish on the table so everyone can dig in. It's rustic and homey, perfect for casual gatherings.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Garnish the top of the casserole with fresh chopped parsley, chives, or green onions for a burst of color and added freshness.
• Serve with a Main Course: This hearty side dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, turkey, ham, or even grilled chicken.

How to Serve Loaded Green Bean Casserole

This rich and flavorful casserole works as a side dish for many different meals. Here are a few ideas:

• Holiday Dinners: This casserole is the perfect side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinners. It pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, and roast beef.
• Weeknight Meals: Serve it alongside roasted chicken, pork chops, or steak for a satisfying weeknight meal.
• Potluck Favorite: Bring this dish to a potluck or family gathering, and it will be an instant crowd-pleaser. It’s hearty enough to stand out among other side dishes.

Presentation Ideas for Loaded Green Bean Casserole

Make your Loaded Green Bean Casserole stand out with these presentation tips:

• Cast Iron Skillet: If you have a cast iron skillet, bake and serve the casserole in it for a rustic, farmhouse presentation.
• Festive Baking Dish: Use a colorful or festive ceramic baking dish to add a touch of elegance to your holiday spread.
• Garnish Generously: Top the casserole with fresh herbs or a few extra crispy fried onions right before serving for an added touch of flair.

Loaded Green Bean Casserole Recipe Tips

For the best results, keep these tips in mind:

• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole the day before, minus the crispy onion topping. Cover and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just add the crispy onions and bake as directed.
• Crispy Bacon Tip: If you prefer extra-crispy bacon, bake it in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes instead of frying it in the skillet.
• Custom Cheese Blend: Feel free to mix different cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Parmesan with cheddar for a more complex flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use canned green beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned green beans. Be sure to drain them thoroughly, as they are already soft and you don’t want extra moisture in the casserole.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole (without the fried onions on top) up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, then add the fried onions and bake when ready.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through.

4. Can I freeze Loaded Green Bean Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole, but the texture of the green beans may soften after thawing. Assemble the casserole without the crispy onions, freeze, and then bake directly from frozen, adding the onions during the last few minutes of baking.

5. What other vegetables can I add to this casserole?
You can add other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or chopped bell peppers to boost the veggie content and add more flavor.

Conclusion

Loaded Green Bean Casserole takes the classic green bean casserole and elevates it with the addition of cheese, crispy bacon, and even more fried onions for a dish that’s decadent, savory, and perfect for holiday feasts or weeknight dinners. By following the recipe and tips provided here, you can create a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s packed with flavor and texture. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving or just because, this loaded version of green bean casserole is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy and happy cooking!

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