Hearty Hamburger Green Bean Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
Few dishes capture the warmth of a homemade meal like the Hamburger Green Bean Casserole. Made with simple pantry staples—ground beef, green beans, and cream of mushroom soup—this casserole delivers big on flavor, ease, and nostalgic comfort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe is a go-to solution that never disappoints.
Why You’ll Love Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
This casserole isn’t just about convenience—it’s about crafting a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal ingredients and maximum taste. Each bite brings together the savory richness of seasoned ground beef, the earthy tenderness of green beans, and the creamy, comforting body of mushroom soup.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you just want to serve something wholesome and fulfilling.
Simple Ingredients That Deliver Big Flavor
Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect Hamburger Green Bean Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef – Lean or regular; well-browned and seasoned.
- 1 can (15 oz) green beans, drained – You can use either cut or French-style green beans.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – The classic base that brings everything together.
Optional (but highly recommended):
- 1 tsp onion powder or chopped onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder or minced garlic
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a cheesy topping)
- ½ cup fried onions or crushed Ritz crackers (for a crunchy finish)
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Casserole
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch or 11×7-inch baking dish.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef until browned and fully cooked. If desired, add chopped onions and minced garlic while cooking for extra flavor. Drain any excess grease.
3. Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked beef, drained green beans, and cream of mushroom soup. Add seasonings such as salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder to taste. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef and green bean mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. If using, top with shredded cheddar cheese and a layer of fried onions or crushed crackers for added texture and flavor.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
Serving Suggestions for Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
This casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but you can pair it with a few side dishes for a more complete dinner:
- Mashed potatoes or buttered rice – To soak up the creamy sauce.
- Buttered rolls or cornbread – Perfect for sopping up every last bite.
- Crisp green salad – Adds a fresh, crunchy contrast.
- Steamed carrots or corn on the cob – For additional veggies on the plate.
Make It Ahead or Freeze for Later
This recipe is ideal for meal prep:
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without topping) and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add toppings just before baking.
- To Freeze: Assemble and cool the casserole, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 60 minutes or until heated through.
Delicious Variations to Try
1. Cheesy Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the beef mixture before baking for extra cheesiness.
2. Low-Carb/Keto Option
Swap regular cream of mushroom for a low-carb version and use fresh or frozen green beans instead of canned.
3. Tex-Mex Twist
Stir in a ½ packet of taco seasoning, and top with pepper jack cheese and jalapeños.
4. Mushroom Lover’s Version
Add a ½ cup of sautéed fresh mushrooms to deepen the earthy, umami flavor.
Why This Casserole is a Family Favorite
- Quick to prepare with minimal cleanup
- Budget-friendly with just three main ingredients
- Comforting and satisfying, especially on chilly nights
- Kid-approved and adult-friendly alike
Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this casserole always hits the mark.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 |
| Protein | ~20g |
| Carbohydrates | ~10g |
| Fat | ~25g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sodium | ~650mg |
Nutrition values may vary depending on brands and added toppings.
Final Thoughts
The Hamburger Green Bean Casserole proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create a deeply satisfying dish. It’s a nostalgic, dependable recipe that turns pantry staples into a warm and delicious meal your whole family will love. Whether served fresh out of the oven or enjoyed as leftovers the next day, this casserole is always a hit.
I