There’s something undeniably comforting about a casserole that brings together hearty ingredients in one dish. This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is a delicious twist on the classic—a creamy, savory blend of ground beef, tender green beans, and a golden, crispy topping that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. Each bite is a satisfying mix of flavors and textures, making it a dish that’s both nostalgic and exciting.
I first made this casserole for a family gathering, and it was an instant hit. My cousins couldn’t stop raving about how flavorful it was, and my aunt even asked for the recipe to make it for her church potluck. What I love most about this recipe is how it takes the familiar green bean casserole and elevates it with the addition of savory ground beef, creating a meal that’s hearty enough to stand on its own.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is sure to become a favorite. Let’s get cooking!
Resume (Todd Wilbur Style):
- Hearty & Comforting: A classic casserole with a savory twist.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a breeze.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and holidays.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and baked when ready.
Exciting Story:
Last Thanksgiving, I made this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole as a side dish, and it was an instant hit. My brother, who usually skips the veggies, couldn’t stop eating it! Even my dad, who claims he doesn’t like casseroles, went back for seconds. Now, it’s a staple at every holiday gathering, and my husband insists I make it for his work lunches.
Why This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole?
This casserole is the ultimate combination of hearty, savory, and comforting flavors. The ground beef adds a rich, meaty element to the classic green bean casserole, while the creamy sauce and crispy topping tie everything together. It’s easy to make, yet it looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
What You Need For Hamburger Green Bean Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) green beans, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup French fried onions
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Hamburger Green Bean Casserole:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened. Drain any excess fat.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef, green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and French fried onions on top.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips For Hamburger Green Bean Casserole:
- Use fresh green beans instead of canned for a crispier texture.
- Add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- Let the casserole rest before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and fried onions.
- Vegetarian: Skip the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
- Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Swiss cheese.
Make a Healthier Version:
- Use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
- Replace cream of mushroom soup with a homemade, low-sodium version.
- Use fresh green beans and skip the fried onions.
Closing (Todd Wilbur Style):
And there you have it—Hamburger Green Bean Casserole that’s sure to impress! Don’t forget to let us know how your dish turns out, and consider checking out some of our other comforting recipes:
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use fresh green beans?
Yes, blanch them before adding to the casserole. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze before baking and bake straight from the freezer, adding extra time. - What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
Use cream of chicken or celery soup as a substitute. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. - How do I prevent the topping from burning?
Cover with foil for the first 20 minutes, then uncover to brown. - Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or sausage works well too. - What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?
Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. - Can I make this vegan?
Use plant-based ground meat, dairy-free soup, and vegan cheese. - How do I make the casserole creamier?
Add an extra 1/4 cup of milk or sour cream. - Can I add other veggies?
Yes, stir in mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers. - How do I serve this casserole?
Serve hot as a main dish or side with a fresh salad.