Green bean casserole is a classic dish, beloved in holiday gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. But have you ever tried adding crispy, smoky bacon to this traditional favorite? Bacon transforms the humble green bean casserole into a mouthwatering, savory delight that’s hard to resist.
In this article, we’ll explore 32 green bean casserole with bacon recipes, from the classic to the creative. Whether you’re looking for a quick family meal or something special for the holidays, these recipes will inspire your next cooking adventure.
Why Add Bacon to Green Bean Casserole?
Bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor and crispy texture that elevates green bean casserole to a new level. The salty crunch perfectly complements the creamy mushroom sauce and tender green beans, creating a harmonious balance that satisfies every bite.
Essential Ingredients for Green Bean Casserole with Bacon
Most recipes share some common ingredients:
- Fresh or canned green beans
- Crispy cooked bacon pieces
- Cream of mushroom soup or homemade mushroom sauce
- Fried onions or crispy shallots
- Cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Garlic, onions, and seasonings
How to Cook Perfect Bacon for Your Casserole
For the best bacon in your casserole:
- Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess grease.
- Crumble or chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Use the bacon grease to sauté onions or mushrooms for extra flavor.
32 Green Bean Casserole with Bacon Recipes
1. Classic Green Bean Casserole with Bacon
The timeless recipe features green beans, cream of mushroom soup, crispy fried onions, and plenty of bacon bits baked until bubbly.
2. Cheesy Bacon Green Bean Casserole
Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for a gooey, melty topping that pairs perfectly with smoky bacon.
3. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Garlic
Sauté garlic in bacon grease for an aromatic twist on the classic casserole.
4. Low-Carb Green Bean Casserole with Bacon
Skip the fried onions and use fresh green beans with heavy cream and crispy bacon for a keto-friendly version.
5. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Mushrooms
Add extra fresh mushrooms sautéed in bacon fat for a rich, earthy flavor.
6. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Caramelized Onions
Sweet caramelized onions add depth and balance to the salty bacon and creamy sauce.
7. Vegan Green Bean Casserole with Smoky Bacon Substitute
Use plant-based bacon and dairy-free cream sauce for a vegan-friendly casserole.
8. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Almonds
Add toasted almonds for a nutty crunch, complementing the bacon’s texture.
9. Spicy Green Bean Casserole with Bacon
Add chili flakes or hot sauce for a little kick to your classic casserole.
10. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Blue Cheese
Mix in crumbled blue cheese for a tangy flavor contrast with the smoky bacon.
11. Southern-Style Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Cornbread Crumble
Top with crumbled cornbread for a Southern-inspired twist.
12. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Sweet Potato
Add roasted sweet potato cubes for a sweet and savory balance.
13. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Carrots
Include diced carrots for color, sweetness, and added nutrition.
14. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Dijon Mustard
A tablespoon of Dijon mustard mixed into the sauce adds a tangy depth.
15. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of umami and color.
16. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Herbs
Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley enhance the casserole with aromatic freshness.
17. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Cream Cheese
Cream cheese makes the casserole extra creamy and luscious.
18. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze
Drizzle balsamic reduction on top before serving for a sweet, tangy finish.
19. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Pine Nuts
Toast pine nuts and sprinkle on top for added crunch and richness.
20. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Smoked Paprika
Add smoked paprika to amplify the smoky flavor profile.
21. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Shallots
Sautéed shallots give a mild onion flavor and slight sweetness.
22. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Roasted Garlic
Roasted garlic adds sweetness and depth.
23. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Gruyere Cheese
Gruyère melts beautifully and gives a nutty taste.
24. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Lemon Zest
A touch of lemon zest brightens the rich flavors.
25. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Cherry Tomatoes
Halved cherry tomatoes add freshness and color.
26. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Panko Topping
Replace fried onions with crispy panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping.
27. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Buttermilk
Use buttermilk in the sauce for a slight tang.
28. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and White Wine
Deglaze the pan with white wine before adding the sauce for added flavor.
29. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan adds a salty, nutty layer of flavor.
30. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Crumbled Sausage
Add cooked breakfast sausage alongside bacon for a meat lover’s version.
31. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Maple Syrup
A drizzle of maple syrup adds subtle sweetness to balance the bacon.
32. Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Crispy Shallots
Use crispy fried shallots instead of onions for a milder, more delicate flavor.
How to Bake Your Green Bean Casserole with Bacon
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix cooked green beans, cream soup or sauce, and bacon in a casserole dish.
- Top with fried onions, cheese, or chosen toppings.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips for the Best Green Bean Casserole with Bacon
- Use fresh green beans when possible for a fresher taste and better texture.
- Crisp the bacon well, but avoid burning it.
- Make your own mushroom sauce for a fresher, less processed taste.
- Add toppings just before baking for maximum crunch.
Conclusion
Adding bacon to green bean casserole is an easy way to upgrade a classic dish with smoky flavor and satisfying crunch. Whether you stick to the classic style or try one of the 32 variations above, you’re sure to delight your family and guests with these delicious recipes.
Which green bean casserole with bacon recipe will you try first? Let me know!
