Introduction to Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
There’s something truly special about a warm, hearty meal that brings everyone together, and that’s exactly what my Hamburger Green Bean Casserole does. This dish is a comforting delight, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick solution. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s sure to impress your loved ones. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled my kitchen, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. Trust me, this casserole is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a dish!
Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is a lifesaver for busy cooks like me. It’s quick to prepare, taking just about 15 minutes of hands-on time. The combination of ground beef and green beans creates a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and delicious. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll love how it warms your heart and fills your belly, all while being a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients for Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Hamburger Green Bean Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground beef: The star of the dish, providing a rich, savory flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Olive oil or butter: Used for sautéing the onion and garlic, adding a touch of richness. Feel free to use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
- Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re short on time, onion powder can be a quick substitute.
- Garlic: Minced garlic brings a wonderful aroma and flavor. Fresh is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
- Green beans: Canned or fresh, they add a pop of color and nutrition. Fresh green beans can be steamed for a healthier twist.
- Cream of mushroom soup: This creamy base ties everything together. You can use a homemade version or opt for a gluten-free can if needed.
- Sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang. Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for a healthier option.
- Worcestershire sauce: A splash of this sauce enhances the umami flavor. If you’re out, soy sauce can work as an alternative.
- Onion powder: For an extra layer of flavor, this is a handy ingredient to have in your spice cabinet.
- Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste preferences.
- Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a deliciously gooey texture. Feel free to mix in your favorite cheese varieties.
- mozzarella cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, creating a lovely topping. You can swap it for provolone or Monterey Jack if desired.
- Crispy fried onions: These add a delightful crunch on top. You can find them in stores or make your own for a homemade touch.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!
How to Make Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful Hamburger Green Bean Casserole. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by heating your olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re fragrant and the onion turns translucent. This step is crucial; it builds the flavor foundation for your casserole.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Season it with salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Remember to drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from becoming greasy. This step ensures a hearty yet balanced dish.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. This creamy filling is what makes the Hamburger Green Bean Casserole so comforting. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now, gently fold in the cooked ground beef and drained green beans into the creamy mixture. Make sure everything is well coated. This is where the magic happens, as all those flavors meld together beautifully. It’s a colorful and inviting mixture that’s hard to resist!
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the combined mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top it with the remaining cheese, creating a gooey layer that will melt into perfection. Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 6: Add the Crispy Topping
Finally, sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top of the casserole. Pop it back in the oven for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, until the onions are golden brown and crunchy. This final touch adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving, and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save on cooking time.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the creamy filling.
- Don’t skip the resting time; it helps the casserole set up nicely.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for a unique twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: Essential for cooking the beef and sautéing the veggies. A non-stick pan works well too.
- Mixing bowl: For combining the creamy filling. Any large bowl will do.
- Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish is perfect. You can use any oven-safe dish of similar size.
- Spatula: Great for mixing and spreading the casserole evenly.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. This keeps the dish hearty while catering to vegetarian diets.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a spicy twist that’ll warm you up!
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique flavor profile that elevates the casserole.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the creamy filling for an aromatic touch that enhances the overall taste.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace the green beans with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that still delivers on flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Hamburger Green Bean Casserole with warm, crusty rolls for a comforting meal.
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
- A glass of chilled iced tea or lemonade complements the flavors beautifully.
- For presentation, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
FAQs about Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
As I’ve shared my love for this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole, I often get questions from fellow home cooks. Here are some of the most common queries I’ve encountered:
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 and bake it when you’re ready to enjoy. It’s a great time-saver for busy days!
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. This will still give you that creamy texture we all love in a Hamburger Green Bean Casserole.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, fresh green beans work wonderfully! Just steam them until tender before adding them to the casserole. They’ll add a lovely crunch and freshness to the dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready for round two!
Is this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this casserole can easily be made gluten-free! Just ensure you use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check the labels on your Worcestershire sauce and fried onions.
Final Thoughts
Making this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The joy of watching my family savor each bite fills my heart with warmth. This dish is a reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that brings everyone together, making even the busiest days feel special. So, whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this casserole is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Trust me, it’s a dish that wraps you in a delicious embrace!
Print
Hamburger Green Bean Casserole: A Comforting Delight!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting and delicious Hamburger Green Bean Casserole that combines ground beef, green beans, and creamy cheese for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (14 oz each) cut green beans, drained (or 4 cups fresh, steamed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Heat oil or butter in a skillet. Add onion and garlic, cook until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the cheese.
- Stir in green beans and cooked beef until well coated.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
- Add crispy fried onions on top and bake another 5–7 minutes until golden brown.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Pairs perfectly with warm rolls or mashed potatoes.
- Feel free to use fresh green beans for a healthier option.
- Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
