Few dishes are as nostalgic and comforting as a hot, bubbly casserole straight from the oven. If you’re searching for a recipe that’s easy, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to satisfy the whole family, look no further than Hamburger Green Bean Casserole. This classic American favorite blends savory ground beef, tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and a crunchy topping for a weeknight dinner that never disappoints.
Whether you grew up eating casseroles at Grandma’s house or you’re discovering them for the first time, this recipe will become a staple at your dinner table. It’s hearty, simple to prepare, and the leftovers taste even better the next day. Read on for everything you need to make the perfect hamburger green bean casserole, including step-by-step instructions, tips, serving ideas, and more.
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
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and gets that perfect golden top.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Sauté until the beef is fully cooked and no pink remains, which should take about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
Transfer the cooked ground beef to a large mixing bowl. Add the drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. The soup and milk make the filling creamy, while the seasonings boost flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread the beef and green bean mixture evenly in the dish, making sure every corner is filled. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese in an even layer over the top—this will melt into a gooey, golden topping.
Step 5: Bake and Finish with French Fried Onions
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Carefully remove the dish, then sprinkle the French fried onions evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the onions are crispy and golden brown.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes scooping much easier.
Variation
Turkey or Chicken Swap: Use ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version.
Add More Veggies: Stir in frozen mixed vegetables or fresh mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
Cheese Lovers: Mix in mozzarella, Colby Jack, or Swiss cheese for a different flavor.
Cream of Anything Soup: Substitute with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup if you prefer.
Low-Carb: Use fresh or frozen green beans instead of canned, and reduce the amount of fried onions.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the filling for some heat.
Cooking Note
Drain the Beef Well: For the best texture, always drain excess fat from your ground beef after browning. This keeps the casserole from becoming oily and ensures a creamy, cohesive filling.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole during the final minutes of baking after you add the fried onions. They crisp up quickly and can burn if left too long.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Dinner: Serve this casserole hot with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Potluck Favorite: Bring it to family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday dinners—it’s always a hit!
Leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, so leftovers make a delicious lunch or quick dinner.
Add a Side: Try it with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or pickles for a full plate.
Tips
Prep Ahead: Assemble the casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if it goes straight from fridge to oven.
Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free fried onions and check that your soup is gluten-free.
Extra Crunch: Double up the fried onions if you love that crispy texture!
Custom Seasoning: Taste your filling before baking and adjust seasoning as needed.
Presentation: Sprinkle a little chopped parsley on top for color just before serving.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
35 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: 370
Protein: 18g
Sodium: 950mg
(These numbers are estimates and will vary depending on specific brands and quantities used.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh or frozen green beans instead of canned?
Yes! If using fresh green beans, blanch them in boiling water for 3–4 minutes first. For frozen, simply thaw and drain before adding to the casserole.
Can I make hamburger green bean casserole ahead of time?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole up to one day in advance and store, covered, in the refrigerator. Bake as directed when ready.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Assemble the casserole but don’t add the fried onions. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding the onions in the last 10 minutes.
What other cheeses work in this casserole?
Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, Colby, or Swiss cheese are all delicious options.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole casserole in the oven.
Conclusion
Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is everything you want in a comfort food dish—hearty, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but satisfying enough to please a crowd at any gathering. With its combination of savory ground beef, tender green beans, and a crispy onion topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it once, and you’ll see why casseroles like this have stood the test of time. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to make enough for leftovers—they’re just as tasty the next day!
