Thanksgiving is a time of joy, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious food. Among the many traditional dishes that grace the Thanksgiving table, green bean casserole holds a special place. It's a classic that has been a staple for generations. But today, we're going to take this beloved dish to a whole new level with the million - dollar green bean casserole.

What sets the million - dollar green bean casserole apart from the ordinary green bean casserole? Well, it all starts with the ingredients. Instead of the typical basic recipe, this version incorporates crispy bacon, a garlicky cheese sauce, and crispy onions, creating a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing.

Let's start with the bacon. Bacon is like the rock star of the meat world. Its crispy texture and savory flavor add a depth of richness to the casserole. When you cook the bacon until it's perfectly crispy and then crumble it over the top of the green bean mixture, it not only looks beautiful but also adds a wonderful crunch. You can use thick - cut bacon for a more substantial bite or thin - cut bacon for a lighter, more delicate flavor. Either way, the bacon is a game - changer.

The garlicky cheese sauce is another key component of this million - dollar dish. Cheese is already a crowd - pleaser, but when you add garlic to the mix, it takes it to a whole new level. The garlic adds a pungent and aromatic note that complements the creaminess of the cheese. You can use a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of both. The cheese sauce should be thick enough to coat the green beans but not so thick that it becomes overwhelming. To make the sauce, you'll need to melt the cheese in a saucepan over low heat, adding in some milk and a minced garlic clove. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Crispy onions are the final touch that really makes this casserole shine. They add a sweet and crunchy element that contrasts perfectly with the soft green beans and the creamy cheese sauce. You can buy pre - made crispy onions at the grocery store or make your own at home. To make your own, simply slice onions thinly, coat them in flour, and fry them in hot oil until they're golden brown and crispy. Once they're done, drain them on a paper towel to remove any excess oil.

Now, let's talk about the green beans themselves. You can use fresh or frozen green beans for this recipe. Fresh green beans have a more vibrant flavor and a firmer texture, while frozen green beans are more convenient and readily available. If you're using fresh green beans, make sure to trim the ends and blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes before adding them to the casserole. This will help to preserve their color and nutrients.

To assemble the million - dollar green bean casserole, start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine the green beans, the bacon, and the garlicky cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated. Then, transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the crispy onions over the top of the casserole. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese sauce is bubbly and the onions are golden brown.

As you take your first bite of the million - dollar green bean casserole, you'll be greeted with a burst of flavors. The savory bacon, the creamy garlicky cheese sauce, the sweet and crunchy onions, and the tender green beans all come together in perfect harmony. This is not just a side dish; it's a culinary masterpiece that will be the talk of your Thanksgiving dinner.

So, this Thanksgiving, skip the ordinary green bean casserole and give the million - dollar green bean casserole a try. Your family and friends will thank you for it. It's a dish that combines the best of classic Thanksgiving flavors with a modern twist, making it a must - have for any holiday meal. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a Thanksgiving dish that will be remembered for years to come.