Go Back
Bacon Green Bean Casserole featured image showing a creamy, bubbly casserole dish topped with crispy bacon and fried onions.

Bacon Green Bean Casserole

This Bacon Green Bean Casserole elevates a classic side dish with the smoky flavor of bacon and a creamy mushroom sauce. Topped with crispy fried onions, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser perfect for holidays or weeknight meals.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound thick-cut bacon
  • 2 tablespoons reserved bacon grease
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Paper towels
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Cook bacon in a large skillet until crispy. Remove bacon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Crumble the bacon, reserving 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  3. In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic and cook until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  6. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth.
  7. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Remove from heat.
  9. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained green beans and the creamy mushroom sauce.
  10. Stir in about half of the crumbled bacon (reserve the rest for topping).
  11. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  12. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  13. Remove from oven and top with the remaining crumbled bacon and the French-fried onions.
  14. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
  15. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth. To prevent a soggy casserole, ensure the green beans are thoroughly drained and the mushrooms are cooked until they release their moisture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. Variations: Add shredded cheese before the onions, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.