Introduction to Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
There’s something magical about a warm, hearty meal that brings everyone together, and that’s exactly what my Hamburger Green Bean Casserole does. This dish is like a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick solution for dinner. With layers of savory ground beef, tender green beans, and a creamy sauce, it’s a family favorite that never fails to impress. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a festive gathering, this casserole is sure to become a cherished part of your culinary adventures.
Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is a true lifesaver in the kitchen. It’s not just easy to make; it’s also incredibly satisfying. In about 45 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, which means less cleanup for you! Your family will love the rich taste, and you’ll love how quickly it comes together.
Ingredients for Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Hamburger Green Bean Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground Beef: The star of the show! I prefer using lean ground beef for a healthier option, but feel free to use ground turkey if you want a lighter dish.
- Onion: A small onion, finely diced, adds a sweet and savory depth to the casserole. It’s like the secret handshake of flavors!
- Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic bring a fragrant punch. You can never go wrong with garlic in comfort food!
- Green Beans: Fresh or frozen green beans work beautifully here. If you’re short on time, canned green beans are a great shortcut.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creamy base ties everything together. It adds richness and a comforting texture. You can also use a homemade version if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Sour Cream: A half cup of sour cream adds tanginess and creaminess. It’s like a little dollop of happiness!
- Milk: A splash of milk helps to thin out the sauce, making it perfectly pourable.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper enhance the flavors. Adjust the salt to your taste, but remember, the fried onions will add some saltiness too!
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is a must for that gooey, melty topping. You can swap it for a different cheese if you prefer.
- Fried Onions: Crispy fried onions add a delightful crunch on top. You can find these in the store, or make your own if you’re up for it!
For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious casserole!
How to Make Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Making this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is a breeze, and I promise it’ll be worth every minute. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal that warms the heart and fills the belly.
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, letting them sizzle together. As the beef cooks, break it apart with a spatula. This helps it brown evenly. Once the beef is no longer pink, drain any excess fat. This step is crucial; nobody wants a greasy casserole! Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing those flavors to mingle.
Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans
If you’re using fresh or frozen green beans, bring a pot of water to a boil. Toss in the beans and let them cook for about 5–6 minutes until they’re just tender. If you’re using canned green beans, simply drain them and skip the boiling. This saves time and keeps things simple!
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. This creamy sauce is the heart of the casserole, bringing everything together. Make sure there are no lumps; you want it smooth and velvety. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra pepper can go a long way!
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, start layering your ingredients. First, spread the seasoned ground beef and onion mixture evenly across the bottom. Next, add the green beans, followed by the creamy sauce. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. This layering creates a beautiful, hearty dish that’s sure to impress!
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You want it to be hot and bubbly, with the cheese melted to perfection. Keep an eye on it; every oven is a little different. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
Step 6: Add the Fried Onions
Once the casserole is bubbling, it’s time for the finishing touch! Remove it from the oven and generously sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5–7 minutes. This will give the onions a chance to crisp up and turn golden brown. Trust me, this crunchy topping is the cherry on top of your Hamburger Green Bean Casserole!
Tips for Success
- Always drain excess fat from the beef to keep your casserole from being greasy.
- For a creamier texture, let the sauce sit for a few minutes before pouring it over the layers.
- Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor twist.
- Make it ahead of time and refrigerate before baking for an easy weeknight meal.
- Don’t skip the fried onions; they add a delightful crunch!
Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders for browning the beef.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch dish is perfect, but any oven-safe dish will do.
- Mixing Bowl: Use a medium bowl for whisking the creamy sauce.
- Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps with breaking up the beef and mixing.
- Pot: A pot for boiling fresh or frozen green beans, if needed.
Variations of Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. This keeps the dish hearty while catering to vegetarian diets.
- Cheesy Spin: Add a layer of cream cheese or a different cheese blend for an extra cheesy experience. Think mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick!
- Spicy Twist: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the creamy sauce for a spicy kick that’ll warm you up!
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile. Fresh herbs can add a delightful freshness to the casserole.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace the green beans with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative that still delivers on taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions for Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
- Side Salad: Pair with a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Drink Pairing: A chilled iced tea or lemonade complements the dish perfectly.
- Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Can I make Hamburger Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and pop it in the oven. It may need a few extra minutes to heat through.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce. Just make sure it’s creamy enough to blend well with the other ingredients in your Hamburger Green Bean Casserole.
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans work perfectly in this casserole! They’re convenient and save time. Just make sure to boil them for a few minutes to ensure they’re tender before layering them in the dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole tastes just as good the next day!
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like corn, mushrooms, or bell peppers. They’ll add extra flavor and nutrition to your Hamburger Green Bean Casserole. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The rich flavors and comforting textures make it a dish that warms the heart and brings smiles to faces. I love how it effortlessly combines simplicity with satisfaction, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the joy that comes from sharing a delicious, homemade meal together!
Print
Hamburger Green Bean Casserole: A Cozy Family Favorite!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A rich and hearty casserole layered with savory seasoned ground beef, tender green beans, creamy sauce, melted cheddar, and a crispy fried onion topping. Warm, cozy, and deeply satisfying — the ultimate family dinner or holiday side.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh or frozen green beans (or 2 cans, drained)
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 300g) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions (store-bought French fried onions)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef and diced onion over medium heat. Drain excess fat. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If using fresh or frozen green beans, boil for 5–6 minutes until just tender. If using canned, skip boiling.
- In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer seasoned ground beef, green beans, and creamy sauce spread evenly. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 20 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and top generously with fried onions. Return to oven for 5–7 minutes, until crispy and golden.
Notes
- For a healthier option, you can use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or corn for extra flavor.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
