If there’s one dish that wraps you up in a warm hug after a long day, it’s got to be Hamburger Green Bean Casserole. This classic casserole brings together juicy ground beef, crisp-tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and gooey cheese all topped with a crunchy crown of French fried onions. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal to share with friends or hunting for a budget-friendly dinner that can stretch to feed a crowd, Hamburger Green Bean Casserole always delivers big flavor and even bigger comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is in its sheer simplicity—basic pantry staples work together to build layer upon layer of flavor, texture, and color. Each ingredient has a purpose, making every bite satisfying and delicious.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base of the casserole, providing depth and that signature savory flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) green beans, drained: Adds color, subtle sweetness, and a burst of freshness—canned, fresh, or frozen all work here.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: The creamy foundation that ties the filling together and creates a luscious sauce.
- ½ cup milk: Helps thin the soup, ensuring the casserole stays moist without being too dense.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into bubbly, cheesy goodness that makes every forkful irresistible.
- 1 cup French fried onions: The signature crispy topping, bringing bold flavor and incredible crunch.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory note that complements both the beef and the veggies.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the flavors already in play for a well-rounded, comforting taste.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing every single bite.
How to Make Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Get your oven going at 350°F (175°C). Starting with a hot oven ensures the casserole bakes evenly, with a perfectly melted cheesy top and golden crisp finish.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium warmth, add your ground beef, and break it apart while it cooks. Stir and sauté until the meat is thoroughly browned and no pink remains—about 6-8 minutes. Don’t forget to drain the excess fat for a creamy, not greasy, casserole.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine your cooked beef, green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is coated in a creamy, savory sauce—the scents alone will make your mouth water!
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks. Spread the hearty mixture in the dish, making sure every inch is filled. Layer the shredded cheddar cheese on top to guarantee a gooey, golden cap with every serving.
Step 5: Bake and Top with French Fried Onions
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until everything is bubbling and the cheese is beautifully melted. Pull it out carefully, top with the French fried onions, and return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes—just long enough to toast the onions to crispy perfection. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving so it sets up and scoops out like a dream.
How to Serve Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Garnishes
For an effortless flourish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over your Hamburger Green Bean Casserole just before serving. The pop of green isn’t just pretty—it brings a light herbaceous note that brightens the whole dish.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a complete meal on its own but shines even brighter with a few simple sides. Think a crisp green salad, creamy mashed potatoes, or a slice of crusty bread to soak up every bit of that savory sauce. Even some pickles or tangy coleslaw can balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Individual ramekins are a fun way to serve Hamburger Green Bean Casserole for company, making each person feel special. If you’re feeding a crowd, you can double the recipe and use a larger baking dish. For potlucks or family dinners, serve straight from the dish with a bold serving spoon—everyone will dive right in!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hamburger Green Bean Casserole keeps beautifully. Simply cover the baking dish or scoop into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days—the flavors will deepen and meld, making the next meal even more delicious.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for a future busy night, assemble the casserole right up to the point of adding the fried onions. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, freeze for up to two months, and wait to add the onions until just before finishing in the oven.
Reheating
To reheat, let the casserole come to room temperature if possible. Warm in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbling, or microwave individual servings for a quick, satisfying lunch. Add a fresh sprinkle of fried onions after reheating if you love them especially crispy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh or frozen green beans in Hamburger Green Bean Casserole?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans should be blanched in boiling water for 3–4 minutes before adding, just to soften them. Frozen green beans can be thawed and drained, giving you a slightly firmer, brighter veggie bite.
Is it possible to make Hamburger Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish (sans French fried onions) up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, sprinkle on the onions and bake until bubbly and golden as directed.
What are some variations for Hamburger Green Bean Casserole?
Try swapping the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter feel, or adding more veggies like mushrooms, corn, or carrots for extra color and nutrition. You can even experiment with different cream soups depending on your personal taste.
Which cheeses work best in Hamburger Green Bean Casserole?
Cheddar is the classic choice, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or Swiss cheese for new flavor twists. Mixing cheeses can also deepen the overall cheesiness!
Can I make Hamburger Green Bean Casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free French fried onions (most major brands offer these now) and double check your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’re all set.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s equal parts comforting, flavorful, and easy to make, Hamburger Green Bean Casserole fits the bill. Once you try it, I think it’s bound to become a treasured addition to your family’s dinner rotation. So grab those simple ingredients, gather your loved ones, and make Hamburger Green Bean Casserole tonight—let the good times (and great flavors) begin!
PrintHamburger Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is a classic American favorite that combines savory ground beef, tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and a crunchy topping for a comforting and nostalgic meal. Easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for satisfying the whole family.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) green beans, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup French fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
- Mix the Filling: Combine cooked beef with green beans, soup, milk, seasonings. Mix well.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread mixture in a greased baking dish. Top with cheddar cheese.
- Bake and Finish: Bake for 25 minutes, add fried onions, bake 5-10 minutes more.
Notes
- Drain excess fat from ground beef after browning for best texture.
- Do not overbake after adding fried onions to prevent burning.
- For extra crunch, double up on the fried onions.
- Adjust seasoning of filling to taste before baking.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
