This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is a cozy, hearty, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. Ground beef, tender green beans, and creamy soup come together under a layer of crispy fried onions to create a classic comfort food with just the right touch of nostalgia. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s incredibly easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how quick and simple this casserole is—just a few staple ingredients and I’ve got dinner in the oven in under 15 minutes. The ground beef adds protein and heartiness, while the green beans bring freshness and a pop of color. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and savory. Whether I'm serving it fresh from the oven or reheating leftovers the next day, this dish never disappoints.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Ground beef
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Canned or frozen green beans
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Cream of mushroom soup
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Milk
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Salt and pepper
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Garlic powder (optional)
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Cheddar cheese (optional, for extra richness)
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Crispy fried onions
Directions
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I start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart until it's fully cooked and no longer pink. I season it with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for more flavor.
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While the beef is cooking, I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Once the beef is ready, I drain any excess grease and stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk, mixing until everything is well combined.
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Then, I fold in the green beans—either canned (drained) or thawed frozen ones—until evenly coated.
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I pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
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If I’m using cheese, I sprinkle it on top before baking.
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I bake the casserole uncovered for about 25–30 minutes, then top it with crispy fried onions and return it to the oven for another 5–10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
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I let it cool slightly before serving to allow everything to set.
Servings and timing
This recipe typically serves 6 and takes about 10 minutes of prep time, with a total cook time of 35–40 minutes. It’s perfect for a family dinner or for meal prepping a few days in advance.
Variations
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I sometimes swap the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different flavor.
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For extra veggies, I add corn or diced carrots to the mix.
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When I want a low-carb version, I use fresh green beans and skip the fried onion topping, replacing it with a sprinkle of parmesan.
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To make it spicier, I add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, I either microwave individual portions or warm the casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through—usually about 15 minutes. If I want to restore the crispiness of the fried onions, I add a fresh layer before reheating in the oven.
FAQs
What type of green beans work best for this casserole?
I like using canned green beans for convenience, but frozen or even fresh green beans (lightly steamed first) work great if I want a firmer texture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. I often assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When I’m ready to bake, I just add a few extra minutes to the cook time.
Do I have to use cream of mushroom soup?
No, I’ve made this recipe with cream of chicken and even cream of celery soup, and it turns out just as creamy and delicious.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, I use a gluten-free cream soup and either skip the crispy onions or use a certified gluten-free version.
Can I freeze Hamburger Green Bean Casserole?
Yes, I’ve frozen it successfully. I let the cooked casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is one of those timeless dishes I keep coming back to. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether I’m cooking for the family or prepping meals ahead of a busy week, it always delivers comfort and flavor with minimal effort.
Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting casserole made with ground beef, green beans, and creamy mushroom soup, topped with crispy fried onions. Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) green beans, drained (or 3 cups frozen, thawed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Drain any excess grease from the beef.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk until well combined.
- Fold in the green beans until evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
- If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes.
- Top with crispy fried onions and return to the oven for 5–10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh green beans for a firmer texture—just steam them lightly first.
- Swap out the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or celery for variation.
- Add corn, carrots, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
- To make it low-carb, skip the fried onions and use Parmesan instead.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ⅙ of casserole
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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