Loaded Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Looking to take your traditional green bean casserole to the next level? This Loaded Green Bean Casserole Recipe combines all the classic elements of green bean casserole with a few indulgent extras—like bacon, cheese, and crunchy toppings. This dish is packed with layers of flavor, adding a modern twist to the classic holiday favorite. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a family dinner, this loaded casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Read on for the full recipe, including tips, substitutions, and step-by-step instructions to make the perfect Loaded Green Bean Casserole.

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What is Loaded Green Bean Casserole?

Loaded Green Bean Casserole is a flavorful upgrade from the traditional green bean casserole recipe. It still includes tender green beans and a creamy sauce, but with the addition of crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and a crunchy topping. The flavors of smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and savory onions all combine to make this an unforgettable side dish. It’s perfect for holiday feasts or any meal that needs a hearty, comforting side.

Ingredients List for Loaded Green Bean Casserole

To make this indulgent casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh green beans (trimmed)
• 8 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (condensed)
• ¾ cup whole milk (or heavy cream for a richer sauce)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for umami)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
• 1 cup French-fried onions (for topping)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup sour cream (optional, for added creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)

Ingredients List for Optional Add-ins

Here are some optional add-ins to customize your Loaded Green Bean Casserole even further:

• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (for more texture and flavor)
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (for extra cheesiness)
• ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)
• Crumbled Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
• Sliced jalapeños (for a spicy kick)
• Hot sauce or sriracha (to taste, if you like it spicy)

Substitutions and Variations

This loaded casserole is flexible and can be customized based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences. Here are a few simple substitutions and variations:

• Turkey bacon: Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a leaner option.
• Frozen green beans: Frozen or canned green beans can be substituted for fresh. Just be sure to drain canned beans well or thaw frozen beans before using.
• Vegan version: Use plant-based bacon, vegan cream of mushroom soup, and dairy-free cheese for a fully vegan-loaded green bean casserole.
• Gluten-free option: Choose gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free fried onions for a casserole that’s free from gluten.
• Extra veggies: Add diced bell peppers, carrots, or peas to the casserole for a heartier vegetable mix.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make the ultimate Loaded Green Bean Casserole? Let’s walk through the steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it's ready for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans

If you’re using fresh green beans, wash and trim the ends. Blanch the green beans by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the beans and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This will keep them vibrant and slightly crunchy.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

While the beans are blanching, cook your bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels. Once cool, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Mix the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk (or cream), shredded cheddar cheese, soy sauce (if using), black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir in the sour cream if you want a creamier texture. Mix until the sauce is smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the blanched green beans to the sauce mixture, along with half of the crumbled bacon. Stir until the green beans are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the green bean mixture into a 9x13-inch casserole dish or any ovenproof baking dish. Top the casserole with the remaining crumbled bacon and an extra handful of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 7: Add Crunchy Topping

For the final touch, sprinkle the French-fried onions generously over the top of the casserole. For an even more indulgent crunch, you can also mix in some crumbled Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs with the onions.

Step 8: Bake

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the sauce is bubbling, and the topping is golden brown. If the fried onions are browning too quickly, cover the casserole loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Step 9: Serve

Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chopped green onions for an extra pop of color.

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

Here’s a quick recap of how to prepare this delicious Loaded Green Bean Casserole:

1. Blanch the green beans: Cook them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath.
2. Cook the bacon: Fry bacon until crispy, then crumble.
3. Make the sauce: Mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheese, and seasonings in a bowl.
4. Combine ingredients: Stir the green beans and half the bacon into the sauce.
5. Assemble: Pour into a casserole dish, top with bacon, cheese, and fried onions.
6. Bake: Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
7. Serve: Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Loaded Green Bean Casserole turns out perfectly, here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the blanching step: Blanching green beans helps maintain their vibrant color and texture. Skipping this step could lead to soggy or dull-looking beans.
• Overcooking the bacon: You want crispy bacon for this casserole, but be careful not to burn it. Keep an eye on the bacon as it cooks.
• Soggy topping: Add the fried onions just before baking to keep them crispy. If they start to brown too quickly, cover the dish with foil.
• Not seasoning enough: The cream of mushroom soup can be a bit bland on its own, so don’t forget to add garlic powder, pepper, or any other seasonings to enhance the flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Here are some tips to make your Loaded Green Bean Casserole stand out on the dinner table:

• Serve in a pretty dish: Transfer the casserole to a decorative baking dish or serve it directly from a cast-iron skillet for a rustic look.
• Garnish for color: Add freshly chopped parsley, green onions, or chives on top for a pop of green.
• Pair with other favorites: Serve this loaded casserole alongside classic holiday dishes like roasted turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, and stuffing for a complete meal.

How to Serve Loaded Green Bean Casserole

This casserole pairs perfectly with a variety of main dishes, making it a versatile side for holidays or everyday meals. Here are a few ideas:

• Thanksgiving side: Serve with roasted turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a classic Thanksgiving meal.
• Christmas dinner: Pair with glazed ham, mashed potatoes, and rolls for a festive Christmas spread.
• Weeknight dinner: Serve alongside roasted chicken or pork chops for a comforting family dinner.

Presentation Ideas for Loaded Green Bean Casserole

• Layered presentation: Create layers by spreading the green beans and sauce first, then adding the bacon and fried onions on top for a more polished look.
• Individual servings: Make individual casseroles by dividing the mixture into smaller ramekins for a more elegant presentation at dinner parties or holiday gatherings.
• Top with fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a burst of freshness and color.

Loaded Green Bean Casserole Recipe Tips

• Use fresh green beans for the best flavor and texture. However, frozen or canned green beans can be used if you’re short on time.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. If the topping gets too brown, cover it with foil to avoid burning.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble everything except the fried onions, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the onions and bake as directed.

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 green beans and sauce, but wait to add the fried onions until just before baking. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans work well for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess water before using.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free fried onions or crushed gluten-free crackers as a topping.

How can I make this dish vegan?

To make a vegan-loaded green bean casserole, use plant-based bacon, dairy-free cheese, and a vegan cream of mushroom soup. You can also use coconut milk or a plant-based milk alternative for the sauce.

Conclusion

This Loaded Green Bean Casserole Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that takes the traditional green bean casserole to a whole new level. With the addition of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a crunchy onion topping, this dish is sure to impress at any holiday gathering or dinner table. Whether you make it as a side dish for Thanksgiving or as part of a cozy weeknight dinner, your family and friends will be asking for seconds! Try it today and enjoy the rich, hearty flavors of this delicious casserole.

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