When the weather turns chilly and you’re craving a hearty, soul-warming dish, look no further than this Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole. This comforting casserole is a delightful blend of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, fresh green beans, and melted cheddar cheese – a true delight for your taste buds. It’s the kind of dish that instantly transports you to a cozy kitchen, filled with the aroma of homemade goodness. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family gathering or indulging in a comforting weeknight meal, this Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Table of Contents
Ingredients that Make the Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole Shine
The key to this Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole is the quality of the ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at each one:
- 4 cups diced red potatoes – Red potatoes are the perfect choice for this dish, as they hold their shape well during baking and develop a delightful creamy texture.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter – The butter helps to coat the potatoes, adding richness and facilitating even browning in the oven.
- 14.5 ounces of drained green beans – Canned green beans offer convenience, but you can also use frozen or fresh green beans for an even more vibrant flavor.
- 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced – The smoky, salty crunch of bacon is the star of the show, complementing the other ingredients perfectly.
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, divided – Cheddar cheese melts beautifully, creating gooey pockets of cheesy goodness throughout the casserole.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Seasoning the dish with these kitchen staples enhances the overall flavor profile.
Remember, when it comes to the Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole, the quality of the ingredients is paramount. Choose fresh, high-quality produce and dairy products for the best results. And of course, don’t skimp on the bacon – it’s the backbone of this comforting dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Assembling the Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole
Ready to bring this Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole to life? Follow these easy steps:
- On the stovetop, bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add the diced red potatoes and cook until just tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place the cooked, drained potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the top, then season with salt and pepper. Stir gently to coat the potatoes.
- Add the drained green beans, diced cooked bacon, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake the Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the green beans are tender.
That’s it! With just a few simple steps, you’ve transformed ordinary ingredients into a comforting and flavor-packed Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole that’s sure to delight your family and friends.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
While the Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole may be considered a comfort food, it’s not entirely devoid of nutritional value. Let’s take a closer look at the numbers:
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Fat: 18g (9g saturated)
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
The potatoes, green beans, and cheese provide a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while the bacon adds a boost of protein. To make the dish even healthier, you can try reducing the amount of cheese or using a lower-fat variety. Serving the casserole with a fresh salad or steamed veggies can also help balance out the meal.
Serving Suggestions for the Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole
This Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Serve it as a main dish, or pair it with other tasty sides for a complete meal:
- Pair it with a crisp green salad or a simple steamed vegetable medley for a well-rounded dinner.
- Serve it alongside roasted chicken or baked ham for a heartwarming Sunday supper.
- Bring it to potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday celebrations – it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Enjoy it as a comforting main dish on a chilly evening, with a crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up all the delicious flavors.
No matter how you serve it, this Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole is a true delight for the senses and the soul. Its blend of flavors and textures is sure to leave your family and guests asking for seconds (or thirds!).
Variations on the Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole
While the classic Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, you can also get creative and try out some delicious variations:
- Bacon and Broccoli Cheese Casserole – Swap the green beans for broccoli florets for a twist on the classic.
- Loaded Potato and Green Bean Bake – Add diced ham, chopped onions, and extra cheese for a heartier, more substantial casserole.
- Cheesy Bacon Potato Bake – Omit the green beans and focus on the potato, bacon, and cheese combination for a decadent side dish.
No matter which variation you choose, the key is to maintain the balance of flavors and textures that make the Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole so irresistible. Experiment with different cheeses, seasonings, and add-ins to find your perfect version of this comforting classic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen green beans instead of canned green beans in the casserole?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen green beans in your Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the mix to avoid excess moisture in the casserole. Using frozen green beans can also enhance the dish’s nutritional value since they are often flash-frozen soon after harvest, preserving their vitamins and minerals.
How do I adjust the cooking time if I double the recipe?
If you decide to double the recipe, it’s important to use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Start by increasing the baking time by about 10-15 minutes, but keep an eye on it. The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden. You may also want to cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first half of the baking time to prevent over-browning.
What should I do if my casserole seems too dry after baking?
If your Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole turns out dry after baking, consider adding a bit more moisture. You can drizzle some extra melted butter or cream over the top before serving. Another option is to serve it with a side of gravy or a creamy sauce that can add moisture and flavor to each bite. Additionally, ensuring that you have enough cheese or adding a splash of broth to the mixture before baking can help maintain moisture.
Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for cheddar cheese, you can use various types of cheese to customize the flavor. Options like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a different twist to your dish. Just keep in mind that the melting qualities and flavors will vary, so choose a cheese that complements the other ingredients well. Mixing different cheeses can also create a more complex flavor profile.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
Dig into the comforting goodness of the Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole and enjoy the flavors that will have your taste buds singing! This dish is sure to become a new family favorite, whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Bon appétit!
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Discover the Ultimate Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole Recipe!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole is a comforting blend of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, fresh green beans, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 cup diced red potatoes
- 2 tablespoon melted butter
- 14.5 ounce drained green beans
- 6 slices cooked bacon, diced
- 2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- On the stovetop, bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add the diced red potatoes and cook until just tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place the cooked, drained potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the top, then season with salt and pepper. Stir gently to coat the potatoes.
- Add the drained green beans, diced cooked bacon, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake the Bacon Green Bean Potato Casserole for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the green beans are tender.
Notes
For a healthier version, consider reducing the amount of cheese or using a lower-fat variety. Serve with a fresh salad or steamed veggies for balance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 30mg