Pioneer Woman Green Bean Casserole Recipe

The good ol’ green bean casserole is one of my favorite comfort foods to prepare, especially The Pioneer Woman’s version.

Why?

You get a wonderful mix of green beans, crispy bacon, and creamy sauce that brings back those classic holiday flavors we love.

I like how the recipe incorporates a homemade sauce with simple ingredients, like milk and flour—no canned soups here!

Adding a touch of cayenne pepper gives it a subtle kick and depth, making each bite a delightful combination of warmth and flavor.

How to Make Pioneer Woman Green Bean Casserole Recipe 

Ingredients

• 1 lb Fresh Green Beans (trimmed)
• 6 slices Bacon
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup
• 1/2 cup Pimientos (diced)
• 1/2 cup Chicken Broth
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
• 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F.

Blanch the green beans by boiling them in salted water for about 3 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Step 2:

Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.

Remove from the pan and crumble it once it cools down.

Reserve a bit of the bacon grease in the skillet.

Step 3:

Add the cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, chicken broth, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the reserved bacon grease.

Stir everything together until the cheese melts.

Step 4:

Mix the cooked green beans and pimientos into the cheese sauce.

Pour everything into a casserole dish.

Step 5:

In a small pan, heat olive oil and stir in the panko breadcrumbs until they are golden brown.

Sprinkle these breadcrumbs over the green bean mixture.

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Crispier Bacon Is Key

When cooking the bacon, make sure it’s extra crispy so it stays crunchy after baking in the casserole.

If you ever find the bacon too chewy, consider baking it separately and then adding it just before serving.

Customize the Spice Level

If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your family’s preference.

Enhance the Topping

For a more flavorful topping, mix in some grated Parmesan cheese with the panko breadcrumbs before toasting them.

It adds just enough bite and melts beautifully in the oven.

Make It Ahead of Time

Prepare the casserole a day before, store it in the fridge, and just bake it when you need it.

This allows all the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious.

Swap for Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh green beans instead of canned ones gives the dish a wonderful texture and fresher taste.

Blanching them ahead of mixing ensures they cook to perfection and retain their vibrant color.

What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Green Bean Casserole

Turkey

You can’t go wrong with serving a classic roasted turkey alongside your green bean casserole.

The rich flavors and crispy skin are a perfect match.

Honey-Glazed Ham

Try making a honey-glazed ham for a sweet and savory combination.

The sweetness of the honey glaze pairs wonderfully with the creamy casserole.

Baked Salmon

For something different, consider baked salmon.

Its light and flaky texture is a delightful contrast to the hearty casserole.

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

If you’re feeling adventurous, a shaved Brussels sprouts salad can add a refreshing twist to your meal.

The crunchiness and slightly bitter flavor balance the richness of the casserole well.

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

For a vegetarian option, grilled portobello mushrooms are fantastic.

Their meaty texture and earthy flavor make them a satisfying pairing.

Apple Slaw

An apple slaw offers a crisp and tangy option with your casserole.

Filled with fresh apples and cabbage, it’s both refreshing and delicious.

Oven-Fried Chicken

If you love fried chicken, try making it in the oven for a healthier version.

The crispy coating is a delightful companion to the creamy green bean casserole.

Variations and Substitutions

You can try swapping out traditional cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken soup.

This change offers a milder, slightly sweeter flavor!

Feeling adventurous?

Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of soy sauce to the mix.

These can add a new depth of flavor to your casserole!

Alternative Mix-Ins

Consider incorporating cooked crumbled bacon or caramelized onions.

These options give a smoky taste that pairs well with the green beans.

For a cheesier approach, sprinkle some shredded cheddar on top before baking.

You could also use Swiss cheese for a more sophisticated twist!

Fried Onion Swap

If you’re out of fried onions, replace them with crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs.

Toss them with a bit of butter before adding to the top for a golden, crunchy finish.

This switch keeps the texture interesting and delicious!

How to Store Leftover Pioneer Woman Green Bean Casserole

Storing leftovers properly is crucial to maintaining flavor and texture. You want to keep that delicious casserole fresh!

Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature. Once it’s cool, you can move on to the next step of storage.

Transfer the casserole to an airtight container. It’s essential to seal it properly to avoid any extra moisture or air entering.

If you’re using a baking dish with a lid, make sure it’s airtight. You can also use plastic wrap or aluminum foil for a tighter seal.

Place the container in the refrigerator, where it can be stored safely for up to four days. Keeping it chilled helps maintain its fabulous taste.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Simply place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will be good for up to three months.

Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness. This will help you remember exactly when you stored it.

Always recheck for any unusual odors or changes before serving again. Proper storage ensures your casserole remains safe and tasty!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Too Much Cheese

While cheese can be delightful, adding too much can overshadow the fresh flavor of green beans.

Stick to a small sprinkle of Parmesan if you want to add a cheesy touch.

Bland Ingredients

Choosing a simple recipe can lead to a bland dish.

Enhance flavors with unexpected ingredients like soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce.

These can elevate the taste and highlight the best qualities of your ingredients.

Lack of Texture

Neglecting texture can make your casserole less appealing.

Include crunchy toppings or varied ingredients to keep each bite interesting.

Try adding fried onions or toasted almonds for a delightful crunch.