Elevate your holiday table or weeknight dinner with our Cream Cheese & Bacon Green Bean Casserole—a decadent twist on a classic favorite. This indulgent casserole combines crisp green beans with a velvety cream cheese sauce and the savory crunch of bacon. Whether you’re a fan of traditional green bean casseroles or looking to impress with a gourmet touch, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds. Join us as we delve into the ingredients, guide you through the step-by-step instructions, share cook notes and variations, and provide keto and low-carb versions. Get ready to experience the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this Cream Cheese & Bacon Green Bean Casserole.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and blanched
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed pork rinds (for keto/low-carb version) or panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Creating the Creamy Base:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Green Beans: Trim the ends of the green beans and blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes. Drain and transfer to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. Drain again.
- Creamy Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Combine with Green Beans: Add the blanched green beans and crumbled bacon to the creamy mixture. Gently fold until the green beans are evenly coated.
Topping with Crunchy Goodness:
- Prepare Topping Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine crushed pork rinds (or panko breadcrumbs for the non-keto version), grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Mix until it forms a crumbly topping.
- Top the Casserole: Transfer the creamy green bean mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the top.
Baking to Perfection:
- Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown, and the edges are bubbly.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook Notes
- Fresh vs. Frozen Green Beans: While fresh green beans provide a vibrant crunch, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. Ensure they are thawed and well-drained before incorporating them into the casserole.
- Blanching for Perfect Texture: Blanching the green beans briefly ensures they are tender yet retain a pleasing bite. The ice bath helps preserve their bright green color.
- Adjusting Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to the cream cheese mixture.
Variations
1. Mushroom Medley Addition:
Enhance the casserole with a sautéed mix of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, for an earthy dimension.
2. French Onion Twist:
Incorporate caramelized onions into the cream cheese mixture for a hint of sweetness and depth of flavor.
3. Nutty Crunch:
Boost the topping with a handful of chopped toasted almonds or pecans for added texture.
Keto Versions
For those on a keto journey, consider these modifications:
- Pork Rind Crunch: Replace panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly, low-carb topping.
- Low-Carb Mayonnaise: Choose a sugar-free or homemade mayonnaise to reduce the carb content.
- Almond Flour Addition: Mix in a couple of tablespoons of almond flour to the cream cheese mixture to thicken it without adding carbs.
Low-Carb Version
To cater to low-carb preferences, make these adjustments:
- Almond Flour Topping: Substitute crushed pork rinds or panko breadcrumbs with almond flour for a lower-carb alternative.
- Reduced-Carb Cheese Blend: Use a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella to reduce the overall carb content.
- Greek Yogurt Swap: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lower-carb alternative.
Cream Cheese & Bacon Green Bean Casserole is a delightful symphony of textures and flavors—a luxurious take on a classic side dish that elevates any meal. Whether you follow the classic recipe, experiment with tempting variations, or adapt it to keto and low-carb lifestyles, this casserole invites you to savor the perfect harmony of creamy, cheesy goodness and crispy bacon. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and indulge in the elegance of Cream Cheese & Bacon Green Bean Casserole. Here’s to the joy of cooking, sharing, and savoring each spoonful of this delectable culinary creation!
