Introduction

This low-carb keto green bean casserole is a comforting twist on the classic dish, perfect for those following a ketogenic lifestyle. Creamy, savory, and topped with crispy bacon, it’s a satisfying side that pairs well with your favorite main courses.

A black cast iron skillet holds a creamy dish with three main layers: bright green cooked green beans on the bottom, covered with a light beige creamy sauce mixed with sliced mushrooms, all topped with a generous layer of crumbly, dark brown crispy bits spread evenly over the surface. A silver spoon with ornate details rests inside the skillet. Around the skillet, on a white marbled surface, there are white bowls containing mashed yellow potatoes, light green stuffing, and a deep purple sauce. Autumn leaves in shades of orange and red decorate the corners of the scene, along with a small bunch of dried orange flowers in a clear glass vase on the top left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 slices bacon
2 cups mushrooms, sliced

1 cup onion, diced
2/3 cup half-and-half

1/3 cup 2% milk
1/4 cup full-fat cream cheese

1 1/4 teaspoons sea salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 pound green beans, trimmed

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Cook the bacon in the skillet until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat, discarding most of the bacon fat but reserving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.
Step 3: Increase the heat to medium-high in the skillet and add the sliced mushrooms and diced onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, about 3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the half-and-half, milk, cream cheese, sea salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly, until it begins to thicken, about 4 minutes. Reduce heat to medium and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is very thick—about the consistency of condensed soup—around 7 to 8 minutes.
Step 5: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook until just fork-tender, about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 6: Stir the drained green beans into the thickened sauce until well coated. Press this mixture evenly into an 8×8-inch baking pan and bake in the preheated oven until bubbly, about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 7: While the casserole bakes, pulse the cooked bacon in a food processor until it forms small crumbs. Sprinkle the bacon crumbs over the bubbly casserole and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 8: Remove from oven and serve immediately, enjoying the creamy, crispy, flavorful keto-friendly side dish.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, try using heavy cream instead of half-and-half and milk.

Swap mushrooms with your favorite low-carb vegetable like zucchini or cauliflower for a different twist.
To make this dairy-free, use coconut cream and a vegan cream cheese alternative.
Ensure green beans are well dried after boiling to prevent a watery casserole.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain a crispy top. Microwave reheating is possible but may soften the bacon topping.

How to Serve

A black cast iron skillet filled with a creamy green bean casserole, featuring three layers: the bottom layer of fresh, bright green beans, the middle layer of a thick, white creamy mushroom sauce with visible mushroom slices, and the top layer of crispy, golden-brown fried onions or breadcrumbs sprinkled evenly for texture. A vintage silver spoon rests inside the skillet on the left side. The skillet sits on a white marbled surface with a salt and pepper shaker nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh or frozen green beans?

Fresh green beans are preferable for the best texture, but frozen green beans can be used. Thaw and drain well before adding to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.

Is this recipe suitable for a strict keto diet?

Yes, this recipe uses low-carb ingredients and avoids high-carb fillers, making it a great option for a strict keto diet.