Few recipes capture the spirit of holiday meals like a green bean casserole with bacon.
It’s a hearty, comforting dish that pairs tender green beans with savory bacon, creamy sauce, and crispy topping. Perfect for family gatherings, this casserole brings warmth and joy to the table.
The combination of flavors and textures makes it a timeless classic. Kids and adults alike love the rich creaminess, slight crunch, and smoky aroma that bacon adds.
This recipe is crafted to be foolproof, flavorful, and festive. Whether baked ahead or served fresh from the oven, it guarantees satisfaction. Easy to customize and simple to assemble, this casserole will shine as a centerpiece on your holiday table.
Quick Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Holiday dinners, potlucks, family meals |
| Skill Level | Beginner-friendly |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes total |
| Spice Level | Mild (adjustable) |
| Freezer-Friendly | Yes, up to 1 month |
Why You’ll Love This Green Bean Casserole With Bacon
✔ Combines creamy sauce with smoky bacon
✔ Uses everyday pantry ingredients
✔ Perfect balance of flavor and texture
✔ Kid-friendly yet sophisticated enough for adults
✔ Make-ahead and freezer-friendly
✔ Easy to customize with extra vegetables or toppings
Ingredients
• 1 lb. fresh green beans, trimmed
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup French fried onions
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1 – Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2 – Cook Green Beans
Blanch green beans in boiling water for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
Step 3 – Prepare Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and melted butter.
Step 4 – Mix Casserole
Combine green beans, half the bacon, half the French fried onions, and the sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
Step 5 – Assemble
Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle remaining bacon, onions, and optional cheddar on top.
Step 6 – Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Chef’s Tips & Variations
| Category | Ideas |
|---|---|
| Bacon Options | Turkey bacon, pancetta, or smoked ham |
| Cheese Additions | Gruyere, mozzarella, or Swiss |
| Veggie Add-ins | Sliced mushrooms, caramelized onions, or bell peppers |
| Spice Up | Cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, hot sauce |
| Gluten-Free Option | Use gluten-free fried onions |
| Healthier Version | Swap cream of mushroom soup with Greek yogurt |
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted turkey or ham for a festive meal
- Serve alongside mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Add a crisp green salad for balance
- Enjoy as a vegetarian version without bacon for a lighter side
Per Serving
This recipe serves 6–8 people.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Assemble without topping and freeze for up to 1 month
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until heated through
Why Homemade is Better
Making green bean casserole from scratch gives you full control over ingredients.
✔ No preservatives or artificial flavors
✔ Adjust seasoning to taste
✔ Add fresh ingredients for a more vibrant flavor
✔ Customize textures and toppings to preference
Unlike canned or boxed versions, the homemade approach provides a richer, fresher taste, perfect for holiday meals.
Nutrition Information
| Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Fiber | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 280 | 8g | 18g | 18g | 4g | 540mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Add toppings just before baking.
Q2: Can I use frozen green beans?
Absolutely! Thaw and drain them before mixing with the sauce.
Q3: Can I skip the bacon?
Yes, for a vegetarian option, replace with extra French fried onions or mushrooms.
Q4: How do I keep it creamy when reheating?
Add a splash of milk or cream before baking again to maintain smooth texture.
Q5: Can I use a different cream soup?
Yes, cream of chicken or celery soup works for a unique twist.
Pros and Cons
| Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
|---|---|
| Creamy, flavorful, customizable | Higher in calories due to bacon |
| Quick and easy to prepare | May not suit low-fat diets |
| Make-ahead and freezer-friendly | Best enjoyed fresh for crispy topping |
Conclusion
This green bean casserole with bacon is more than a side dish—it’s a holiday tradition in every bite.
The creamy sauce, tender beans, and savory bacon make it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings. Preparing it at home ensures freshness, flavor, and a personal touch.
Whether you serve it alongside turkey, ham, or a vegetarian feast, this casserole will be the star of your holiday table. It’s hearty, festive, and guaranteed to delight everyone at the meal.
Green Bean Casserole With Bacon
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blanch green beans in boiling water for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp, then drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and melted butter.
- Combine green beans, half of the bacon, half of the French fried onions, and the sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle the remaining bacon, onions, and optional cheddar on top.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Video
Notes
- You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate.
- Blanch green beans to keep them tender-crisp.
- Half of the French fried onions go in the mix, half on top.
- Add optional cheddar or other cheeses for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.