Oh wow, let me tell you about my absolute favorite side dish: cream cheese and bacon green bean casserole! This dish is a family staple, and I can’t get enough of its creamy texture paired with the savory crunch of crispy bacon. It’s like a warm hug on your plate! Every time I make it, I’m reminded of cozy family dinners and laughter around the table. The rich cream cheese melds perfectly with the green beans and the hint of garlic, making it a standout at any gathering. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Ingredients for Cream Cheese and Bacon Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup crispy fried onions
How to Prepare the Cream Cheese and Bacon Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential for getting that golden, bubbly goodness! While the oven is warming up, grab your fresh green beans and blanch them. Just toss them into a pot of boiling water for about 5 minutes—this helps keep them vibrant and tender. Once they’re done, drain them and give them a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is key to keeping your beans crisp and fresh!
Mixing the Ingredients
Now, let’s move on to the fun part—mixing! In a large bowl, combine your softened cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Make sure that cream cheese is really softened; this will make mixing so much easier and give you that silky smooth texture we’re looking for. Use a whisk or a mixer to blend it all together until it’s nice and creamy. Trust me, you want a smooth mixture; it makes all the difference in the final dish!
Combining and Baking
Next up, it’s time to bring everything together. Carefully fold in the cooked bacon, garlic powder, and black pepper into your creamy mixture. Then, gently add in the blanched green beans, making sure they’re all well-coated in that luscious sauce. Once it’s all mixed, transfer the deliciousness into a greased baking dish. Don’t forget to sprinkle that shredded cheddar cheese on top—yum! Bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, then take it out and add those crispy fried onions on top. Pop it back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes, and just like that, you’re ready to serve up a heartwarming dish that everyone will love!
Tips for Success
Okay, here are my go-to tips to make this cream cheese and bacon green bean casserole truly shine! First, always use fresh green beans for that perfect crunch. If you’re in a pinch, frozen green beans work too, but they won’t have quite the same texture. Want to switch things up? Feel free to use turkey bacon or even add some sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor! And remember, letting your cream cheese soften really does make a difference—no one likes lumpy sauce! Lastly, if you love a crispy topping, go ahead and pile on those fried onions. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Nutritional Information for Cream Cheese and Bacon Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Let’s talk numbers! This cream cheese and bacon green bean casserole is not only delicious but also gives you some solid nutritional info to consider. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 10g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates, and they can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to adjust according to your dietary needs, but trust me, this dish packs a flavorful punch while still being a comforting side!
FAQ About Cream Cheese and Bacon Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are a few common queries that pop up about this creamy delight:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup? No worries! You can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce if you’re feeling adventurous.
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What can I serve with this casserole? This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a simple side salad. It’s versatile and will complement a variety of main dishes!
Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese and Bacon Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Simple and quick preparation—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- The creamy texture from the cream cheese and soup creates a mouthwatering base.
- Who can resist the combination of crispy bacon and fresh green beans? It’s a flavor match made in heaven!
- Loaded with cheesy goodness, thanks to the cheddar cheese topping that melts beautifully.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone loves—great for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts.
- You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings for a personal twist.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day, making it a fantastic make-ahead dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about what to do with any leftover cream cheese and bacon green bean casserole—if there are any! First off, make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation and keeps everything nice and fresh. Transfer your leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator, where it’ll stay good for up to 3 days.
Now, when it comes to reheating, I’ve got a couple of options for you! For the best results, I recommend using the oven. Just preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place your casserole in a baking dish, cover it with foil to keep that moisture in, and heat for about 20-25 minutes. If you want to crisp up the top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. It’s a great way to revive that cheesy, crunchy topping!
If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Just scoop out a portion into a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Just remember, the texture might not be quite as fabulous as when it’s baked, but it’ll still be delicious! Enjoy that creamy goodness again!
Serving Suggestions for Cream Cheese and Bacon Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious cream cheese and bacon green bean casserole, you might be wondering what to serve alongside it. I’ve got some fantastic ideas that will really elevate your meal! First up, a juicy roasted chicken is a classic pairing—its savory flavors complement the creamy casserole beautifully. If you’re in the mood for beef, a perfectly grilled steak or a tender roast would add a hearty touch to your dinner table.
Feeling something lighter? A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the casserole. And let’s not forget about some warm, buttery dinner rolls—because who can resist mopping up that creamy goodness? If you’re hosting a get-together, serving this casserole with mashed potatoes makes for a comforting, indulgent spread that everyone will love. Trust me, whatever you choose to serve with it, your guests will be coming back for seconds!
For more delicious casserole ideas, check out this classic green bean casserole recipe or this cheesy broccoli and chicken casserole.
Print
Cream Cheese and Bacon Green Bean Casserole Recipe Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious green bean casserole with cream cheese and bacon.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup crispy fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain.
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and milk until smooth.
- Add in the cooked bacon, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Fold in the green beans until well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove from oven and top with crispy fried onions. Bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh green beans for the best texture.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- For a crunchier topping, add more crispy fried onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: cream cheese and bacon green bean casserole recipe
