Cream Cheese Beef Bacon Green Bean Casserole is not just another casserole; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening, a dish that brings families together and ignites nostalgia with every bite. This delightful recipe combines the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the hearty flavors of beef and the smoky crunch of bacon, topped off with vibrant green beans. The origins of casserole dishes can be traced back to ancient times, but the Cream Cheese Beef Bacon Green Bean Casserole brings a modern twist that has won the hearts of many. It’s the perfect comfort food for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply a cozy night in, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become a beloved staple in so many homes.
What Is Cream Cheese Beef Bacon Green Bean Casserole
Cream Cheese Beef Bacon Green Bean Casserole is a savory dish that combines tender ground beef, crispy bacon, and fresh green beans, all enveloped in a luscious cream cheese sauce. The texture is a delightful medley of creamy, crunchy, and tender, making each bite a satisfying experience. Unlike traditional green bean casseroles that often rely on cream of mushroom soup, this recipe elevates the dish with the addition of cream cheese, which adds a rich, velvety depth that you won’t soon forget. It stands out among similar casseroles by offering a unique blend of flavors and textures that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Combines classic comfort food in one hearty dish.
- Family-friendly—kids love the flavors!
- Great for meal prep and leftovers taste even better.
How Does It Taste?
The flavor profile of Cream Cheese Beef Bacon Green Bean Casserole is a delightful balance of savory, creamy, and slightly smoky notes. The beef brings a hearty base while the bacon adds a satisfying crunch and a hint of saltiness. The cream cheese creates a rich and smooth sauce that envelops the green beans, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through. Each bite is a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate, making it a dish that’s hard to resist.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
Let’s take a closer look at some of the key ingredients in this mouthwatering casserole:
- Ground Beef: High in protein, it helps build and repair tissues, making it a nutritious choice.
- Green Beans: Packed with vitamins and minerals, they are low in calories and high in fiber, promoting digestive health.
- Bacon: While indulgent, it adds flavor and richness, making the dish feel luxurious.
- Cream Cheese: Offers a creamy texture that enhances the overall dish while providing some calcium.
Incorporating these ingredients into your meal not only satisfies your cravings but also offers nutritional benefits, making the Cream Cheese Beef Bacon Green Bean Casserole a delightful addition to any dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef – The main protein component, providing rich flavor and a hearty texture.
- 4 oz cream cheese – Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor, making the casserole rich and satisfying.
- 8 slices of bacon – Provides a smoky, crispy element that complements the beef and green beans beautifully.
- 2 cups fresh green beans – Adds a vibrant color and crunch, balancing the dish’s richness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully on top, adding flavor and a gooey texture.
- 1 cup beef broth – Keeps the casserole moist and enhances the beef flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses the dish with savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Provides a subtle sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet – For cooking the beef and bacon.
- Mixing bowl – To combine the cream cheese and seasonings.
- Casserole dish – To bake the casserole in the oven.
- Cooking spatula – For stirring and mixing ingredients.
- Oven – To bake the casserole to perfection.
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Ground turkey or chicken – A leaner alternative to beef.
- Dairy-free cream cheese – For a dairy-free version, maintaining a creamy texture.
- Frozen green beans – A convenient substitute if fresh ones aren’t available; just thaw before use.
- Spicy seasonings – Consider adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick.
- Vegetables – Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
How to Make Cream Cheese Beef Bacon Green Bean Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the bacon slices. Cook them until they are crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet for the next step.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In the same skillet, add the ground beef to the remaining bacon grease. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and no longer pink, approximately 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Mix in Seasonings
Once the beef is browned, reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly seasoned.
Step 4: Combine Cream Cheese
Add the cream cheese to the skillet with the beef. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and creamy, about 3-5 minutes. This will create a luscious mixture that binds the casserole together.
Step 5: Incorporate Green Beans
Add the fresh green beans to the beef and cream cheese mixture. Pour in the beef broth and stir until everything is well combined. The green beans should be evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 6: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Pour the beef and green bean mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Crumble the cooked bacon on top of the mixture, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. It should be hot and the green beans tender.
What to Serve With
This Cream Cheese Beef Bacon Green Bean Casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or roasted potatoes. For drinks, a crisp white wine or iced tea complements the richness of the casserole perfectly.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t overcook the green beans; they should remain slightly crisp after baking.
- Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for varied flavors.
- For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cream cheese – This can lead to lumps in the mixture; always let it soften.
- Overcooking the beef – It should be browned but not dry; keep an eye on it while cooking.
- Skipping the seasoning – Proper seasoning is key to enhancing the flavors in the casserole.
- Not greasing the casserole dish – This can result in sticking, making serving difficult.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. If frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.
- Can I use canned green beans? While fresh or frozen are preferred for texture, canned green beans can be used; just drain and rinse them before adding.
- Is this casserole gluten-free? Yes, as long as you ensure the beef broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Nutritional Info
This Cream Cheese Beef Bacon Green Bean Casserole is hearty and filling, with approximately 450 calories per serving. It contains around 30g of protein, 30g of fat, and 15g of carbohydrates, making it a satisfying option for a comforting family meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that beautifully combines comfort and flavor, then the Cream Cheese Beef Bacon Green Bean Casserole is an absolute must-try! This recipe brings together the rich creaminess of cream cheese, the savory goodness of beef, and the delightful crunch of green beans, all topped off with crispy bacon. It’s not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, the Cream Cheese Beef Bacon Green Bean Casserole is sure to impress and satisfy. So why wait? Dive into this delicious casserole and create wonderful memories around your dining table!
Cream Cheese Bacon Green Bean Casserole
Cream Cheese and Bacon Green Bean Casserole is an easy side dish recipe perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas. This creamy green bean casserole is loaded with real bacon bits and topped with Ritz Crackers and French’s Fried Onions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 15 Ritz crackers
- 1 cup French’s fried onions
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 tbsp real bacon bits
- 3 cups milk
- 2 oz Lipton Onion Soup & Dip Mix
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 5 cups chopped frozen green beans
- 1/2 cup real bacon bits
- 1 cup French’s fried onions
Instructions
-
Step 1
Preheat oven to 375°F. -
Step 2
Pour milk into large saucepan. -
Step 3
Add onion soup mix to milk and stir well. Bring to a boil. -
Step 4
Add cream cheese and reduce heat to medium. Stir until melted. -
Step 5
Add frozen green beans and stir until coated. -
Step 6
Add 1/2 cup bacon bits and 1 cup fried onions. Stir well and reduce heat to low. -
Step 7
Crush Ritz crackers in a Ziploc bag. -
Step 8
In a bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers, 1 cup fried onions, and melted butter. -
Step 9
Mix well and set aside. -
Step 10
Dump green bean mixture into a greased 9-inch baking dish. -
Step 11
Spread topping mixture over green beans and sprinkle bacon bits on top. -
Step 12
Bake until topping is just starting to brown, about 14-16 minutes. -
Step 13
Allow to sit for a few minutes before serving.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.
