Hamburger Green Bean Casserole Recipe — Easy Family Dinner Favorite
Looking for a quick and hearty weeknight dinner? Our Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is the perfect easy family dinner recipe, combining ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and fresh green beans into a comforting casserole the whole family will love. This dish is one-pan friendly, budget-conscious, and ready in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to dinner recipe for busy households.
Ingredients for Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
- 1 can green beans, drained (fresh or frozen can be substituted)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery for variation)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend works best)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, adds depth)
Optional Toppings:
- Crispy fried onions for a classic twist
- Breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a crunchy topping
Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures even baking and a creamy, golden finish.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add chopped onion (optional) and sauté for 2–3 minutes.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Combine Ingredients
- Stir in drained green beans and cream of mushroom soup until evenly mixed.
- Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 3–5 minutes to combine flavors.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the beef and green bean mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Add optional toppings like crispy onions or breadcrumbs for extra texture.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
- For a golden cheese topping, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
- Use fresh or frozen green beans for a crisp, vibrant flavor.
- Cheese choice matters: Cheddar gives sharpness, while mozzarella adds creaminess.
- Make-ahead option: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate overnight; bake the next day for convenience.
- Add extra flavor: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard enhances the savory taste.
Flavor Variations to Try
- Cheesy Mushroom Lover’s Casserole — Add extra mushrooms and use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella.
- Low-Carb Version — Substitute green beans with zucchini or broccoli for a lighter dish.
- Spicy Twist — Mix in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Family-Friendly Comfort Food — Top with crushed buttery crackers or French-fried onions for crunch.
Why This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole Works
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners.
- One-pan comfort: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
- Budget-friendly: Affordable ingredients that feed the whole family.
- Customizable: Adjust cheese, seasonings, or toppings to your preference.
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Serving Suggestions
- Pair with steamed rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for balance.
- Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday side dishes.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10–15 minutes.
- For microwave reheating, cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat in 1–2 minute intervals, stirring halfway.