If you're looking for the perfect side dish to serve at your next holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, this Loaded Green Bean Casserole is sure to impress. Packed with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and crunchy fried onions, this upgraded version of the classic green bean casserole takes comfort food to the next level. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is easy to follow, and the result is absolutely mouthwatering. Stick around, and you'll learn everything you need to know to create the ultimate Loaded Green Bean Casserole!
What Is a Loaded Green Bean Casserole?
The term "Loaded" in this recipe signifies that it is bursting with flavors and textures beyond the basic green bean casserole. The classic green bean casserole is traditionally made with canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and a topping of fried onions. However, this Loaded Green Bean Casserole amps up the flavor by adding extra ingredients like crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and a rich sauce that makes it creamy and savory.
Ingredients List for Loaded Green Bean Casserole
To ensure your Loaded Green Bean Casserole is rich, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible, it's important to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- 1.5 lb green beans (fresh or frozen, steamed): These are the main stars of the dish. Fresh green beans bring a great texture, but frozen green beans will work just as well if you're short on time.
- 1 cup French-fried onions (divided): These crispy, golden onions add a delightful crunch to the casserole, both on top and throughout the dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Cheddar cheese brings a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the green beans and bacon.
- 1 cup crumbled bacon (divided): Bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor that elevates the casserole from ordinary to extraordinary.
Ingredients for the Sauce:
- ½ cup cream of mushroom soup: This is the creamy base of the casserole, adding richness and umami flavor.
- ½ cup sour cream: This ingredient helps create a creamy texture while adding a slight tanginess to balance the richness of the bacon and cheese.
- ½ cup mayo: Adds extra creaminess and a slight hint of sweetness to the sauce.
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened): This gives the sauce a smooth, velvety texture and adds an extra layer of creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a mild garlic flavor without being overpowering.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about a Loaded Green Bean Casserole is its versatility. If you need to adjust the recipe based on dietary restrictions or personal preferences, here are a few ideas:
- Substitute fresh green beans with frozen or canned green beans: Fresh green beans offer a crisp bite, but frozen green beans work well if you need to save time. Canned green beans can be used in a pinch, but be sure to drain them thoroughly.
- Swap out bacon with turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon: For a lighter or vegetarian version, use turkey bacon or a meatless bacon alternative.
- Use low-fat cheese and sour cream to cut down on the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
- Try a different cheese like mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a new twist on the traditional recipe.
- Make it gluten-free: Be sure to use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free fried onions if you're cooking for someone with a gluten sensitivity.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into how to put together this delicious casserole. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a dish that will have your family and friends asking for seconds.

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Make sure your oven is fully heated before you begin baking the casserole. - Steam your green beans.
If you’re using fresh green beans, trim the ends and steam them for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. For frozen green beans, simply steam according to the package directions. Set aside to cool slightly. - Prepare the creamy sauce.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayo, and softened cream cheese. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Add in the salt and garlic powder, mixing well to combine. - Mix in the green beans.
Once your sauce is ready, gently fold in the steamed green beans, making sure they are well-coated in the creamy mixture. - Layer the casserole.
Transfer half of the green bean mixture to a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Top with half of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, and half of the French-fried onions. - Repeat the layering.
Add the remaining green beans on top of the first layer, followed by the rest of the cheese, bacon, and French-fried onions. - Bake.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown. - Let it cool.
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
How to Cook Loaded Green Bean Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
In case you need a simplified version of the steps above, here’s a quick guide to follow:
- Steam green beans until tender but crisp.
- Mix the creamy sauce ingredients in a bowl.
- Combine the green beans with the creamy sauce.
- Layer the casserole with green beans, cheese, bacon, and fried onions.
- Bake until bubbly and golden.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make sure your Loaded Green Bean Casserole turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Using canned green beans without draining them properly.
Excess liquid can make the casserole soggy, so be sure to drain and pat dry any canned green beans. - Skipping the layering process.
For the best flavor distribution, it’s essential to layer the ingredients. Don’t just mix everything together in one bowl and dump it into the casserole dish. - Overbaking the casserole.
You want the top to be golden and bubbly, but overbaking can dry out the casserole. Keep an eye on it after 25 minutes.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How you serve and present your Loaded Green Bean Casserole can make all the difference, especially when you’re hosting guests.
- Serve it family-style:
Bring the casserole dish straight from the oven to the table for a warm, homey feel. - Add fresh herbs as a garnish:
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds color and a burst of fresh flavor to the finished dish.
How to Serve Loaded Green Bean Casserole
This dish pairs perfectly with a variety of mains:
- Holiday turkey or ham: A classic combo.
- Roast chicken: A cozy, comforting meal.
- Grilled steaks or pork chops: A hearty side to a protein-heavy main course.
Presentation Ideas for Loaded Green Bean Casserole
For a special touch, consider these presentation tips:
- Serve in mini individual casserole dishes for a restaurant-style presentation.
- Top with extra bacon crumbles and a drizzle of cheese sauce before serving.
Loaded Green Bean Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make-ahead option:
Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before placing it in the oven. - Double the recipe:
Feeding a crowd? You can easily double the ingredients to make a larger casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare and assemble the casserole the day before and bake it just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Loaded Green Bean Casserole?
Yes, but the texture of the fried onions may become less crispy upon reheating. For best results, freeze without the fried onions and add them fresh after reheating.
Conclusion
This Loaded Green Bean Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just as a delicious weeknight side, this casserole is sure to be a hit. With its creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and cheesy goodness, there’s no doubt that your guests will come back for more. Be sure to save this recipe, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family!
PrintLoaded Green Bean Casserole Recipe
This Loaded Green Bean Casserole recipe is a savory twist on a classic side dish, featuring fresh or frozen green beans mixed with a creamy sauce of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayo, and cream cheese. Topped with crispy fried onions, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon, this dish offers rich layers of flavor. Perfect for holiday meals or special gatherings!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb green beans (fresh or frozen), steamed
- 1 cup french fried onions (divided)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup crumbled bacon (divided)
- Sauce:
- ½ cup cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayo
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the steamed green beans, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayo, cream cheese, salt, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Stir in half of the french fried onions, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining fried onions on top and return to the oven until crispy.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen green beans as per availability.
- Adjust bacon and cheese quantities based on personal preference.
- Add a pinch of black pepper for extra flavor.
- Serve as a side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ⅙ of casserole
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 760mg
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