There’s something irresistibly comforting about the scene in my kitchen when I prepare Loaded Green Bean Casserole. The rich aroma of bacon sizzling in the pan fills the air, promising a dish that will not only warm the heart but also delight the taste buds. This recipe transforms the classic green bean casserole into a showstopper with the addition of sharp cheddar and crispy fried onions. Whether it’s for a Thanksgiving feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole is guaranteed to be a family favorite.
As I watched friends and family dig in, smiles spread across their faces, it became clear—this isn’t just a side dish; it’s the star of the table. Imagine each creamy, cheesy bite where the vibrant green beans meld seamlessly with flavorful bacon and luscious cheese. Plus, I’ve added adaptations to accommodate both the meat lovers and vegetarian pals among us. Discover how easy it is to elevate a traditional recipe to create a comforting dish that everyone will want to share!
Why love this Loaded Green Bean Casserole?
Comfort, Creaminess: The rich, creamy texture is a warm hug for your taste buds, making each bite feel indulgent and satisfying.
Loaded with Flavor: Bacon and sharp cheddar come together wonderfully, providing a depth of taste that is sure to impress.
Versatile Options: Easily customizable for vegetarians or different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Quick & Easy: Get it ready in just a few simple steps, perfect for busy cooks who want a stunning dish.
Crowd-Pleaser: A standout at gatherings, this dish will have friends and family coming back for seconds.
Elevate your next meal and see why this Loaded Green Bean Casserole will become a beloved favorite!
Loaded Green Bean Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
- Green Beans – Use trimmed fresh green beans for vibrant color and a tender crunch.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing and adding a layer of richness to the dish.
- Bacon – Provides a smoky flavor; for a vegetarian option, swap with 4 tbsp unsalted butter.
- All-Purpose Flour – Acts as a thickening agent for that creamy sauce everyone loves.
- Whole Milk – Adds creaminess; consider a non-dairy alternative for a vegan option.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances the dish’s complexity; can be omitted for vegetarian-friendly casserole.
- Garlic Powder – Offers a savory depth of flavor without the hassle of fresh garlic.
- Shredded Cheddar – The star of this loaded green bean casserole, ensuring a cheesy experience; can replace with dairy-free cheese if preferred.
- Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential to balance and elevate the dish’s flavors.
- French’s Fried Onions – Adds a delightful crunch on top; feel free to substitute with homemade crispy onions for a fresher alternative.
- Freshly Chopped Chives – Provides freshness and a pop of color, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
Unleash the comforting goodness of this Loaded Green Bean Casserole, where each ingredient plays a vital role in making it the highlight of any meal!
How to Make Loaded Green Bean Casserole
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking this delicious casserole.
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Sauté Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on a paper towel, keeping the rendered fat for the next step.
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Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat and 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk together over medium heat until a roux forms, about 2-3 minutes.
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Add Milk: Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk, continuously stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, approximately 5 minutes.
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Season Sauce: Stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until fully combined and the cheese is melted.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the trimmed green beans with the creamy sauce until well coated. Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
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Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the remaining shredded cheddar cheese, a cup of French’s Fried Onions, and chopped chives. Sprinkle this over the casserole for a crispy topping.
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Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Optional: Garnish with additional chives before serving for a fresh pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Loaded Green Bean Casserole
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: You can freeze the uncooked casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn for your loaded green bean casserole.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until heated through and bubbly. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave.
Make-Ahead: If you prefer, prepare the casserole a day before and refrigerate it unbaked. Just pop it in the oven directly when it’s time to serve!
Make Ahead Options
These Loaded Green Bean Casserole options are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can prepare the casserole mixture (without the topping) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the sautéed bacon, creamy sauce, and green beans, then transfer it to a baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. To maintain the casserole’s quality, be sure to keep the crispy topping separate until you’re ready to bake, as this ensures it stays crunchy. When it’s time to serve, simply add the topping and bake as directed, enjoying that fresh and comforting taste with minimal effort!
Loaded Green Bean Casserole Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make the recipe your own and cater to everyone’s taste preferences!
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Vegetarian Delight: Omit bacon and replace it with mushrooms for a hearty, earthy flavor that complements the beans beautifully.
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Cheesy Twist: Swap out sharp cheddar for a blend of gouda and Monterey Jack cheese for a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sauce for a bit of heat that elevates this comforting dish.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted pecans or almonds with the topping for a crunchy texture and rich flavor contrast.
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Creamy Vegan: Use coconut milk instead of whole milk and substitute cheese with a vegan cheese alternative for a plant-based creamy casserole.
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Mixed Veggies: Replace green beans with a medley of broccoli and carrots for a colorful, nutrient-packed variation that keeps it fresh.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in chopped fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic twist that brings new dimensions to the flavor profile.
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Zesty Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving livens up the dish, adding brightness to the umami-rich flavors.
Embrace the joy of personalization as you make this Loaded Green Bean Casserole uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Loaded Green Bean Casserole
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Choose Fresh Beans: Use fresh, trimmed green beans for the best texture. Frozen beans can become mushy, compromising the casserole’s appeal.
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Watch the Sauce: Ensure your sauce is creamy and thick before adding the green beans. A watery sauce will lead to a less satisfying dish.
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Crispy Topping: For extra crunch, consider mixing in some of the fried onions with the green bean mixture to spread that delightful texture throughout the casserole.
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Avoid Overcooking: Sauté bacon just until crispy and avoid overcooking the casserole in the oven; this prevents the green beans from losing their vibrant color and crunch.
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Customizable Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to try different cheese blends for your loaded green bean casserole, enhancing flavor while keeping it personal to your tastes.
What to Serve with Loaded Green Bean Casserole?
Creating the perfect meal around your Loaded Green Bean Casserole will surely impress both your family and guests.
- Roast Turkey: The classic pairing with a rich and savory flavor that complements the creaminess of the casserole.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these will add a comforting touch and soak up any leftover sauce beautifully.
- Buttery Cornbread: The slightly sweet cornbread offers a fantastic contrast to the savory notes of green beans and bacon.
- Fresh Garden Salad: Bright, crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette will bring balance and freshness to your plate.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness combined with a hint of honey enhances the dish’s comfort food vibes.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tart and fruity addition that cuts through the richness of the casserole, bringing everything together.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: Add a bubbly lift to your meal with this crisp drink, perfect for festive occasions or cozy nights.
- Pecan Pie: Finish off on a sweet note with this classic dessert, whose nutty flavor complements the savory main course.
Each of these pairings elevates your dining experience, ensuring the Loaded Green Bean Casserole shines as the centerpiece!
Loaded Green Bean Casserole Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best green beans for this casserole?
Absolutely! When selecting green beans, look for fresh, vibrant beans that are crisp and free of dark spots or blemishes. Trimmed green beans are ideal as they offer that tender crunch. If you’re in a pinch, frozen green beans can be used, but for the best texture, fresh is preferred!
What’s the best way to store leftover Loaded Green Bean Casserole?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before transferring to avoid moisture build-up, which can make the casserole soggy.
Can I freeze Loaded Green Bean Casserole? How?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked Loaded Green Bean Casserole for up to 3 months! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as instructed!
What should I do if my sauce is too watery?
If you find your sauce is too watery, don’t worry! You can create a thicker consistency by whisking in a bit more flour while the sauce is cooking. Keep stirring for 2-3 minutes to let it thicken. You can also let it simmer for a few more minutes, stirring frequently, to help it reach the desired creaminess.
Is this Loaded Green Bean Casserole suitable for vegetarians?
Very! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon and replacing it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or extra-virgin olive oil for sautéing. Just ensure to leave out the Worcestershire sauce or use a vegetarian version, and you’ve got a delightful vegetarian casserole to share.
How can I reheat the casserole without losing its texture?
When reheating your Loaded Green Bean Casserole, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through. For individual servings, the microwave is a quick option, but cover the dish to keep moisture in and prevent it from drying out. Enjoy that cheesy goodness all over again!
Loaded Green Bean Casserole with Cheesy Bacon Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on a paper towel, keeping the rendered fat.
- In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of bacon fat and 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk together over medium heat until a roux forms, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk, continuously stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, approximately 5 minutes.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until fully combined and cheese is melted.
- Toss the trimmed green beans with the creamy sauce until well coated, then pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix remaining shredded cheddar cheese, fried onions, and chopped chives. Sprinkle this over the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.