Hearty Hamburger & Green Bean Casserole
Introduction
This hearty Hamburger & Green Bean Casserole is a comforting classic with a delicious twist. Creamy mushroom soup, tender green beans, savory ground beef, and melty cheddar cheese combine for a satisfying one-dish meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or potlucks. Plus, that crispy French fried onion topping adds a wonderful crunch that everyone loves!
Pro Tip
For the best flavor and texture, drain the cooked ground beef well before mixing it with the other ingredients. This prevents the casserole from becoming watery and keeps it rich and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Pair with warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up every bite.
- Enjoy with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a light red wine like Pinot Noir for a cozy evening.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based crumbles.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream of mushroom soup, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese.
- Low-Carb: Replace green beans with chopped cauliflower florets and skip the French fried onions, or use crushed pork rinds instead.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for some heat.
Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet: For browning the ground beef evenly.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine all casserole ingredients smoothly.
- 9×13 Inch Baking Dish: Perfect size to hold the casserole and bake evenly.
- Spatula: To mix and spread ingredients effortlessly.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip draining the ground beef—it keeps the casserole from being soggy.
- Stir the green beans gently to avoid breaking them up.
- Use shredded cheddar cheese for even melting and rich flavor.
- Add the French fried onions only at the end for a crispy topping.
- Let the casserole rest 5-10 minutes after baking to set and make slicing easier.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures. It’s quick to prepare yet feels homemade and comforting — ideal for feeding a crowd or making ahead for busy nights. The simple ingredients come together to create a dish that everyone will request again and again.
Recipe Card
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) green beans, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup French fried onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ground beef, drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle French fried onions over the top, then bake 5–10 more minutes until onions are golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition (per serving, estimated)
- Calories: 370
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
FAQ
Q1: How long can I store leftover casserole?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q2: Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Q3: What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
Try cream of celery or cream of chicken soup, or make a quick homemade white sauce.
Q4: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q5: How can I make this healthier?
Use lean ground beef or turkey, low-fat cheese, and reduce or skip the French fried onions.
