Green Bean Casserole with Candied Bacon always impresses me with its deliciously sweet and smoky layers. It transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable side dish. This side dish is a must-have at any holiday table for its unique appeal.
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Green bean casserole with candied bacon recipe
Green Bean Casserole with bacon is a flavorful twist on the classic Thanksgiving side dish. It combines green bean casserole elements with sweet, savory candied bacon.

This dish has a balanced, savory, and sweet flavor profile. It has a creamy texture with a crunchy onion topping. It offers a complex and exciting taste experience.
From a simple side, it becomes a standout dish at any gathering. This side goes perfectly with holiday mains like turkey, ham, prime rib, or chicken. You can pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing, or a fresh cranberry or greens salad.
For drinks, try a Chardonnay or Pinot Noir, or go with an amber ale or wheat beer. Non-alcoholic picks like lime water, cranberry juice, or herbal tea refresh and complement the casserole’s rich, sweet-savory flavors.
Here is how to make the green bean casserole with candied bacon:

Green Bean Casserole with Candied Bacon
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds optional, for garnish
- 10.5 oz (1 can) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup crispy fried onions plus extra for topping
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bacon slices on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the oven, then immediately brush each slice with brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the sugar caramelizes. Remove the bacon and chop it into small pieces.
- While the bacon is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still bright green. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked green beans and half of the candied bacon. Transfer this mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Top the casserole with crispy fried onions and the remaining candied bacon. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
- Garnish with sliced almonds, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Variations
Here are several variations of the bean casserole with candied bacon:
- String Bean Casserole with Candied Bacon includes creamy string beans. The string beans are mixed with candied bacon and topped with crispy fried onions.
- Caramelized Version emphasizes caramelized bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
- Maple-Bacon Green Bean Casserole combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the savory flavor of bacon. It creates a delightful balance.
- Bacon and Almond Combination adds sliced almonds for a crunchy texture. It complements the candied bacon.
- Creamy Ricotta Infusion incorporates ricotta cheese for creaminess alongside sweet corn.
These variations provide different textures and flavors that will impress any gathering!