Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Casserole for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for tradition, but that doesn’t mean you can’t add a delicious twist to your holiday feast. Enter the Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Casserole – a savory, smoky upgrade to a classic side dish that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. This recipe takes the familiar comfort of green bean casserole and elevates it with the irresistible allure of crispy bacon. Get ready to transform your Thanksgiving table with this easy-to-make, flavor-packed dish.

Why Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Casserole?

The traditional green bean casserole is a Thanksgiving staple, but let’s face it, it can sometimes be a bit bland. Wrapping it in bacon solves that problem instantly. The salty, smoky bacon adds a depth of flavor that complements the creamy casserole perfectly. Plus, the bacon provides a delightful textural contrast, making each bite a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s a surefire way to impress your guests and turn a simple side dish into a memorable part of your Thanksgiving celebration.

Beyond the flavor, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare. It requires minimal ingredients and can be assembled ahead of time, freeing up your time on Thanksgiving Day for other culinary adventures. It’s also a great way to use up leftover bacon from breakfast, minimizing waste and maximizing deliciousness. For those watching their carbohydrate intake, bacon-wrapped green bean casserole can be a welcome, satiating addition to the meal. It allows everyone to enjoy a comforting classic while catering to different dietary preferences.

The Ultimate Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Casserole Recipe

This recipe builds upon the classic green bean casserole, adding layers of flavor and visual appeal with the crispy bacon exterior. We will provide options for substitutions for those with allergies or who need vegetarian options.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) cut green beans, drained
• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1 1/4 cups French fried onions, divided
• 1 pound bacon, thinly sliced

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Casserole Mixture: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and cheddar cheese (if using). Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

2. Assemble the Casserole: Spread half of the French fried onions in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the green bean mixture evenly over the onions. Sprinkle the remaining French fried onions over the top of the green bean mixture.

3. Wrap with Bacon: Lay the bacon slices on a cutting board. Arrange the bacon slices over the green bean casserole, overlapping them slightly to cover the entire surface. You can secure the bacon with toothpicks if needed, but this is usually not necessary.

4. Bake: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the casserole is heated through and bubbly. If the bacon starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

5. Serve: Remove from the oven and let stand for a few minutes before serving. Remove any toothpicks before serving. Enjoy this delicious twist on a classic Thanksgiving side dish!

Tips and Variations:

• Crispy Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, you can broil the casserole for the last few minutes of baking, but watch it carefully to prevent burning.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the green bean mixture for a little heat.
• Cheese Please: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Parmesan, or pepper jack, for a unique flavor.
• Homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup: For a truly from-scratch casserole, you can make your own cream of mushroom soup using fresh mushrooms, broth, and cream.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the casserole, such as sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers.

Perfecting Your Bacon Wrapped Casserole

Achieving the perfect bacon-wrapped green bean casserole is all about attention to detail. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls and ensure your dish is a triumph.

Choosing the Right Bacon: Opt for thinly sliced bacon for optimal crispness and even cooking. Thick-cut bacon may not cook through completely during the baking time. Look for bacon with a good balance of fat and lean meat. This will provide both flavor and texture. Consider using different bacon flavors, such as maple or hickory smoked, for a unique twist.

Preventing Soggy Casserole: Drain the canned green beans thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole. Use just enough milk to moisten the mixture, avoiding excess liquid. Make sure the cream of mushroom soup is not too thin. Add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to the soup mixture to thicken it if necessary. Ensure even distribution of French-fried onions and bacon, this will help with moisture.

Baking to Perfection: Monitor the bacon closely during baking to prevent burning. If the bacon starts to brown too quickly, tent the casserole with aluminum foil. Check the internal temperature of the casserole to ensure it is heated through. The center should be bubbly and the edges slightly browned. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions: Serve the bacon-wrapped green bean casserole hot and fresh. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. This dish pairs well with other Thanksgiving classics, such as turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. It’s also a great side dish for potlucks and other holiday gatherings.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

One of the greatest benefits of this recipe is how well it can be prepared in advance, freeing up valuable time on Thanksgiving Day. You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead of time. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Add the bacon just before baking to prevent it from becoming soggy.

If you have leftover bacon-wrapped green bean casserole, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through. Reheating in the oven will help to retain the crispy bacon texture. To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can definitely use fresh green beans. Blanch them for about 5 minutes until tender-crisp before adding them to the casserole mixture.

Can I make this casserole without cream of mushroom soup?

Yes, you can substitute it with a homemade cream sauce or another condensed soup, such as cream of celery or cream of chicken.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon is a good alternative for those who don’t eat pork. Just be aware that it may not get as crispy as pork bacon.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the bacon right before baking.

How do I keep the bacon from getting soggy?

Make sure to drain the green beans well and don’t add too much milk to the casserole mixture. Also, bake the casserole uncovered to allow the bacon to crisp up.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.