Introduction to Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Ah, the age-old challenge of putting dinner on the table after a long day! If you’re anything like me, you sometimes feel like a juggler caught up in a whirlwind of family commitments and work deadlines. That’s where my beloved Hamburger Green Bean Casserole comes into play. It’s a comforting meal that blends savory ground beef, crisp green beans, and a crunchy topping that everyone adores. This dish is not just quick to make; it also brings the family together around the dinner table, ready to enjoy a delicious feast that warms the heart!
Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is truly a lifesaver in the hectic world of family meals. It’s quick to prepare, taking just about 40 minutes from start to finish, which means you can spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. The delightful blend of flavors—from the savory beef to the cheesy topping—makes it a guaranteed hit, even for those picky eaters in your home!
Ingredients for Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Let’s gather our ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need for this comforting dish:
- Ground beef: The star of the show! I love using lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Green beans: Fresh or canned, green beans add a wholesome crunch and color. Just make sure to drain any canned beans well.
- Cream of mushroom soup: This creamy goodness acts as a tasty binder, blending everything together beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping it for chicken soup for a different flavor.
- Milk: Just a splash helps to thin the soup, making the casserole extra creamy and luscious!
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Cheese is always a good idea, right? It forms a cheesy layer that melts and complements the beef, making each bite irresistible.
- French fried onions: These crispy delights add a final crunch that elevates the dish from good to outstanding. Feel free to add more if you’re like me and can’t resist!
- Garlic powder and onion powder: A sprinkle of these spices enhances the flavor profile, bringing out all the savory notes. You can use fresh garlic or onions if you prefer a bolder taste.
- Salt and pepper: A little seasoning goes a long way. Don’t forget to taste your mix before it hits the oven!
Remember, if you’re looking for precise measurements, they’re available in the printable recipe at the bottom of the article. Happy cooking!
How to Make Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Let’s start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for getting that lovely golden-brown finish. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a quick spray of non-stick cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks. You can thank yourself later for this simple step!
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef. Watch it sizzle as it cooks, breaking it apart with a spatula. I usually cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes, just until it’s no longer pink. Once perfectly browned, drain the excess fat. This keeps your casserole from being too greasy. Who wants that, right?
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
Now that our beef is ready, grab a large mixing bowl and combine it with the drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Next, sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly. You want each ingredient to have a chance to mingle, creating that delicious harmony!
Step 4: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Time to move our mixture! Carefully transfer it to the greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly—that way, every bite will be just as delicious as the next. I love seeing it all come together like a colorful masterpiece!
Step 5: Top with Cheese
It’s cheese time! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the casserole. Go ahead, be generous. The cheese will melt beautifully while baking, creating a gooey, cheesy layer that everyone will love. It’s a crucial part of making this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole irresistible!
Step 6: Bake
Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and let it work its magic! Bake for about 25 minutes, or until you see the cheese bubbling and the edges are golden. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for, so keep an eye on it!
Step 7: Add the Crunch
Once your casserole is bubbly and melty, pull it out of the oven. Here’s where the fun happens—sprinkle the French fried onions on top! Pop it back into the oven for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. You want those onions to turn a golden brown. Trust me, that crunch adds the finishing touch to this delightful dish!
Tips for Success
- Don’t skimp on browning the beef; it adds flavor to your casserole.
- If using fresh green beans, blanch them for a few minutes before adding.
- Make ahead! Assemble your casserole the night before and bake when ready.
- For a burst of flavor, add your favorite herbs like thyme or parsley.
- Serve with a simple salad for a well-rounded meal!
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for cooking the beef.
- Mixing bowl: Use any large bowl; a glass one allows you to see your ingredients mix!
- Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish is ideal, but an oven-safe pan will do.
- Spatula: Perfect for breaking up the meat and transferring the mixture.
Variations
- Swap the Protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. They’re just as tasty!
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with a meatless crumble or cooked lentils. Add more veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Herbed Twist: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for a flavorful upgrade.
- Creamy Spin: Replace the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade white sauce for a fresh twist.
- Cheesy Delight: Use a blend of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, to give this casserole a spicy kick!
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad pairs beautifully with the warm casserole. Try a simple green salad with vinaigrette.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with crunchy garlic bread or breadsticks for a comforting meal experience.
- Drink Pairing: A glass of iced tea or lemonade complements the flavors perfectly.
- Presentation Tip: Garnish with chopped parsley for a splash of color and freshness before serving!
FAQs about Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Can I make Hamburger Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before popping it in the oven.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftover Hamburger Green Bean Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing!
Can I use different vegetables in this casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies. Carrots, corn, or even bell peppers make excellent additions. They add color and extra nutrition to the dish!
Is this casserole suitable for a low-calorie diet?
Yes! Using lean ground beef and light cream of mushroom soup makes this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole a tasty choice for a low-calorie meal. You can also swap in low-fat cheese!
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
Your casserole is ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, typically after about 25–30 minutes in the oven. The edges should look slightly crispy, giving you that perfect texture!
Final Thoughts
Cooking is such a beautiful way to create memories with our loved ones, and this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole captures that essence perfectly. It’s a dish filled with comforting flavors that brings smiles around the dinner table—outdoor conversations reminiscing about family gatherings and gatherings past. The ease of preparation means busy nights become a little less chaotic, allowing for more precious moments together. Every scoop of that melty cheese and crunchy topping is an expression of love. So, as you gather your family for dinner, let this casserole be part of your culinary adventures, sharing great moments around the table!
Print
Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious and quick casserole combining ground beef, green beans, and crunchy French fried onions, topped with melted cheddar cheese.
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, then drain excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle French fried onions on top, and bake an additional 5–10 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- You can add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Great for leftovers and reheats well.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
