Hamburger green bean casserole has been my go-to for a quick and satisfying dinner for years. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of savory beef mixed with earthy green beans and that unmistakable creamy sauce filled my kitchen, and my kids came running from upstairs! It’s that kind of comforting smell that just makes you feel at home. This dish is so incredibly easy to put together, making it the perfect weeknight meal when you’re short on time but still want something delicious. You’re going to love how simple and flavorful this easy hamburger green bean casserole is. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Get ready to fall in love with this fantastic casserole. It’s a true crowd-pleaser for so many reasons:
- Ultimate Comfort Food: It’s warm, creamy, and incredibly satisfying, perfect for any day of the week.
- Incredibly Easy: This recipe is designed for busy cooks. Minimal prep means less time in the kitchen.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters adore this dish, making it a reliable meal option.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of savory beef, tender beans, and a rich sauce is simply delicious. This ground beef green bean casserole hits all the right notes.
- One-Dish Wonder: Everything cooks together, meaning fewer dishes to wash afterward!
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to your tastes, whether you prefer it spicier or cheesier.
- Hearty and Filling: This ground beef green bean casserole provides a substantial and satisfying meal.
- Quick Preparation: You can have this ready for the oven in about 15 minutes.
Ingredients for the Best Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Gather these simple ingredients to create your ultimate comfort food. This recipe is designed to be a truly cheesy hamburger green bean casserole, so don’t skimp on the cheese!
- 1 pound ground beef – I prefer 80/20 for the best flavor, but you can use leaner if you prefer.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – this adds a nice aromatic base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – for that essential savory punch.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) green beans, drained – You can also use about 2 cups of fresh or frozen green beans if you have them on hand.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – this is the magic binder that makes the casserole creamy.
- 1/2 cup milk – it thins out the soup just enough for a perfect sauce consistency.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to use mild or a blend!
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce – it adds a wonderful depth of umami flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – this little bit of tang really elevates the beefy notes.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – season as you go!
- 1 cup crispy fried onions – these are essential for that classic topping and delightful crunch.
How to Make Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
It’s surprisingly simple to whip up this comforting dish. Follow these easy steps for a delicious meal that smells as good as it tastes!
- Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grab a nice big skillet.
- Step 2: Place your skillet over medium heat and add the 1 pound ground beef. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is nicely browned and the onion is soft and translucent. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess fat – we want flavor, not grease!
- Step 3: Now for the magic! In a large mixing bowl, combine the savory meat mixture with the drained green beans. Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s all beautifully combined and looks wonderfully creamy. This is where the core of our hamburger green bean casserole really comes together.
- Step 4: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the creamy meat and bean mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Make sure it’s level for even cooking – this is a key part of how to make hamburger green bean casserole.
- Step 5: Generously sprinkle the crispy fried onions all over the top of the casserole. Aim for an even layer so every bite gets that delightful crunch.
- Step 6: Carefully place the baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for the casserole to be bubbly around the edges and the fried onions to turn a beautiful golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is just heavenly!
- Step 7: Once it’s out of the oven, let your delicious hamburger green bean casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken up just a bit more.
- Step 8: Serve warm and enjoy this incredibly satisfying meal! Knowing how to make hamburger green bean casserole will make you a weeknight hero.
Pro Tips for the Best Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Want to elevate your casserole game? These little tricks make a big difference:
- Always drain the grease thoroughly after browning the beef. It prevents a greasy texture and allows the other flavors to shine.
- Don’t skip the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce; they add a depth of flavor that transforms a simple casserole into something truly special.
- For an extra-creamy casserole, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt with the soup and milk mixture.
- Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture if you like a little heat.
What’s the secret to perfect Hamburger Green Bean Casserole?
The real secret to a perfect creamy hamburger green bean casserole is layering flavors and textures. Using both soy and Worcestershire sauce adds umami, while ensuring the crispy onions are added just before baking keeps them perfectly crunchy, not soggy. For more information on umami, you can check out Serious Eats’ guide to umami.
Can I make Hamburger Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole, minus the crispy fried onions, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. Add the onions just before baking and increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Hamburger Green Bean Casserole?
A common pitfall is a watery casserole; make sure to drain the beef and green beans well. Overmixing can also make it dense. For those who dislike mushrooms, remember you can easily make this a hamburger green bean casserole with no mushrooms by simply omitting the cream of mushroom soup and using a cream of celery or chicken soup instead.
Best Ways to Serve Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
This hearty dish is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with classic comfort food sides. Serving this beef and green bean casserole alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or a simple side salad creates a wonderfully balanced plate. For an even more complete meal, consider some crusty bread to soak up any extra creamy sauce – it’s irresistible! You can also serve it with a scoop of rice for a different texture. It’s versatile enough to be the star or a supportive player in your dinner spread.
Nutrition Facts for Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
This hearty casserole is a satisfying meal on its own. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: N/A
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Don’t let any delicious leftover hamburger green bean casserole go to waste! Once it’s cooled down slightly after baking, transfer any remaining portions into an airtight container. This will keep it fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you’ve made a big batch and want to save some for later, this casserole freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container. For more tips on freezing food, check out FoodSafety.gov’s storage charts.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, there are a couple of easy reheating methods. For individual portions, you can microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. If you’re reheating a larger amount, pop it back into a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and heated all the way to the center. You might want to add a few fresh crispy onions on top before reheating if you have them!
Frequently Asked Questions About Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
What is hamburger green bean casserole?
At its heart, hamburger green bean casserole is a comforting, one-dish meal that combines savory ground beef with tender green beans in a creamy sauce, all topped with crispy fried onions. It’s a classic American casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. It’s designed to be hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to for many families. If you’re looking for other classic American dishes, you might enjoy our Baked Lemon Rosemary Chicken.
Why add hamburger to green bean casserole?
Adding hamburger to green bean casserole transforms it from a simple side dish into a complete, satisfying meal. The ground beef adds protein and a rich, savory depth that complements the other ingredients perfectly. It makes the casserole heartier and more substantial, ensuring it can stand alone as a main course. This addition is what makes it a true comfort food classic for many.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh green beans, you can use about 2 cups. You’ll want to blanch them lightly (boil for 2-3 minutes, then shock in ice water) before adding them to the casserole mixture. This ensures they are tender but still have a slight bite. Frozen green beans also work well; just thaw them and drain any excess water before mixing.
Is Hamburger Green Bean Casserole spicy?
Typically, this dish isn’t spicy on its own. The primary flavors are savory, creamy, and slightly tangy from the Worcestershire sauce. However, you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture while browning, or even a dash of hot sauce to the casserole before baking, if you enjoy a little heat! For other spicy options, try our Spicy Cajun Honey Butter Recipe.
Variations of Hamburger Green Bean Casserole You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, there are so many fun ways to switch up your hamburger green bean casserole! These variations add new flavors and textures that keep this beloved dish exciting.
- Cheeseburger Green Bean Casserole: Amp up the cheese factor by adding shredded mozzarella or pepper jack along with the cheddar. You could even top it with a drizzle of special sauce (ketchup, mustard, relish) after baking for a true burger experience.
- Tater Tot Hamburger Green Bean Casserole: For an extra layer of crunchy, potato-y goodness, swap the fried onions for a topping of crispy tater tots! Arrange them over the casserole before baking for a fun twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture while browning, or stir in a can of diced green chilies for a bit of heat.
- Gluten-Free Version: Easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensuring your crispy fried onions are certified gluten-free. For more gluten-free ideas, check out our Lemon Bars (Gluten-Free).
Glorious Hamburger Green Bean Casserole in 35 Minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring savory ground beef, tender green beans, and a creamy sauce, all topped with crispy fried onions. It’s a family-friendly, one-dish wonder perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) green beans, drained (or 2 cups fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup crispy fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is browned and onions are translucent. Drain excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture, green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Top the casserole with crispy fried onions, distributing them evenly over the surface.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
- Let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh green beans and high-quality ground meat.
- Adjust seasonings to your preference.
- Consider adding other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure fried onions are gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/6 of the casserole)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: N/A