A Thanksgiving Classic with a Bacon Twist!
Ahh, Thanksgiving! It's that magical time of year when kitchens hum with excitement, and the warmth of family and food fills the air. Among the shining stars of the Thanksgiving table is one humble yet absolutely indispensable player: Green Bean Casserole. This year, we’re taking it up a notch – enter bacon! Yes, that crispy, smoky, salty superstar. Together, this casserole becomes a flavor-packed delight that no one can resist!
Why You'll Love This Version
Forget bland casseroles of yesteryear – this version is creamy, crunchy, bacon-y, and totally crave-worthy. It’s everything you want out of a side dish: fresh green beans swimming in a luscious, mushroom-packed sauce, topped off with crispy onion strings and sizzling bacon bits. Best of all? It’s straightforward and perfect for busy holiday cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Produce
3 cups fresh green beans (ends removed): Fresh green beans make all the difference! If you prefer frozen, no judgment here – just make sure to thaw and pat dry.
1 8-ounce package button mushrooms (sliced): Adds a rich, earthy flavor that elevates the classic.
1/2 cup onion (finely chopped): Adds a little zingy bite to keep things interesting.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Because, honestly, what’s a savory dish without garlic?
Canned Goods
1 10.75-ounce can cream of mushroom soup (low-sodium): This is our creamy base. Feel free to swap it out with homemade mushroom sauce if you're feeling adventurous!
3 cups water: Used to blanch the green beans. If you want an extra burst of flavor, consider using chicken broth or adding a bouillon cube for a flavorful base.
Baking & Spices
1/4 teaspoon black pepper and 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just enough seasoning to make every bite pop.
Dairy
2 tablespoons butter: For sautéing that flavor-packed mushroom mixture.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a cheesy, salty kick.
Bacon & Crispy Onion Strings
4-6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled): Adds that irresistible smoky flavor.
Crispy onion strings: These will add the ultimate crunch factor!
Step-by-Step Directions
Cook the Bacon:
Fry bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, crumble once cooled, and set aside. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the bacon drippings.
Prep the Green Beans:
Bring water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 3-4 minutes. If you prefer more flavor, you can use chicken broth or add a bouillon cube to the water for a savory twist. Drain and set aside.
Create the Mushroom Mixture:
In the skillet with reserved bacon drippings, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent. Toss in the mushrooms and sauté until they release their juices and turn golden. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Combine the Creamy Base:
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, salt, black pepper, and half of the crumbled bacon. Heat until the mixture is bubbling and well-combined. For an extra kick, stir in half the Parmesan cheese.
Assemble the Casserole:
Mix the green beans with the mushroom-bacon mixture and pour everything into a baking dish. Top with crispy onion strings, the remaining bacon crumbles, and the remaining Parmesan.
Bake to Perfection:
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling. Voilà – Thanksgiving magic!
Troubleshooting & Tips
Watery Sauce?: Be sure to pat the green beans dry before combining them with the sauce. You can also cook the sauce mixture a little longer on the stovetop to thicken it.
Too Salty?: Reduce the salt if you’re using a salted cream of mushroom soup. Taste as you go!
Soggy Top?: To keep those onion strings crisp, add them in the last 10 minutes of baking.
Ingredient Swaps & Additions
Dairy-Free Version: Use a vegan butter substitute and coconut cream or almond milk-based cream of mushroom soup (swap the bacon with vegan bacon or tempeh strips).
Vegan Option: Swap water or vegetable broth for chicken broth, use plant-based cheese and butter, and omit the bacon.
Add a Kick: For a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes.
Alternative Toppings: Want more texture? Panko bread crumbs mixed with melted butter make for a crispy, golden top.
There you have it – a green bean casserole with a bacon twist that will wow your holiday guests! Make it ahead, bake it fresh, and most importantly, savor the smiles it brings. Happy Thanksgiving!
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