Cheesy Bacon and Green Bean Casserole

This Cheesy Bacon and Green Bean Casserole recipe is a comforting and delicious side dish that combines fresh green beans, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Topped with melted sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses, this casserole is a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks, this easy-to-make casserole will quickly become a favorite. The combination of crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and French fried onions adds texture and flavor that will complement any main dish.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ pounds fresh green beans (ends trimmed)
• 1 pound bacon (fried and chopped)
• 4 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup chicken bone broth
• 3 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
• 2 ounces Monterey Jack cheese (grated)
• ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
• 2 cups French fried onions

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Green Beans:
   Trim the rough ends off the green beans and cut them in half, if desired. Set aside.
3. Blanch the Green Beans:
   Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Drop the green beans into the boiling water and cook for 4 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer them to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and pat dry. Place the green beans in the prepared casserole dish.
4. Cook the Bacon:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy on both sides, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
5. Make the Sauce:
   Drain the skillet of excess bacon grease, then return it to medium heat. Add the butter and melt. Add the diced onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Add the Flour and Liquids:
   Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for 1 minute. Slowly pour in the milk, followed by the chicken broth, stirring continuously to combine. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it begins to thicken, about 2 minutes. Stir in the brown sugar, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
7. Finish the Sauce:
   Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream, then add the grated cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses. Fold in half of the chopped bacon and half of the French fried onions.
8. Assemble the Casserole:
   Pour the cheese sauce over the prepared green beans and stir gently to combine. Bake for 25 minutes, then top with the remaining bacon and French fried onions. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Serve warm.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy and Crispy: The creamy cheese sauce paired with crispy bacon and French fried onions creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• Family Favorite: This casserole is a great way to get everyone to enjoy green beans, making it a hit at family dinners and holiday gatherings.
• Simple Ingredients: Using simple, easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe comes together effortlessly and is perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions.
• Customizable: You can add your favorite cheeses or spices to make this dish your own.

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Tips

• Blanching the Green Beans: Be sure to blanch the green beans before assembling the casserole to ensure they cook perfectly during baking without becoming too soft.
• Bacon Options: You can use turkey bacon or other types of bacon if preferred for a healthier version.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add the final layer of bacon and onions before baking.
• Smooth Sauce: To avoid lumps in the sauce, whisk constantly when adding the flour and liquids.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Add More Vegetables: You can add sliced mushrooms or other vegetables like bell peppers to the casserole for added flavor.
• Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Gouda, to create a unique flavor profile.
• Spice it Up: If you like heat, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

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FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding the final bacon and onion topping just before the last 5 minutes of baking.

Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking it. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply let it cook a bit longer on the stovetop to reduce, or add an extra tablespoon of flour when making the roux.

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Serving Suggestions

• Perfect with Roasted Meats: This cheesy bacon and green bean casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, turkey, or beef.
• Light Side Salad: A fresh side salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
• Holiday Meals: This dish is ideal for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, providing a comforting and flavorful side to your festive spread.