Description: Layers of seasoned beef, tender green beans, creamy cheese sauce, and golden fried onions—this gooey, crispy-topped casserole is pure comfort food baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked green beans (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup crispy fried onions
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole will bake evenly and the cheese will melt beautifully. While the oven is preheating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents the casserole from sticking and makes serving easier. Use cooking spray, butter, or oil to grease the dish thoroughly.
Step 2: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break the beef apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The onion and garlic infuse the beef with flavor, creating a savory base for the casserole.
Step 3: Drain any excess grease from the skillet. This step is crucial to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy. Use a colander or carefully pour off the grease, leaving the beef and onion mixture in the skillet.
Step 4: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Worcestershire sauce adds a depth of umami flavor that complements the beef and vegetables. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings as needed to suit your preference.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Mix well until smooth and creamy. This mixture forms the base of the cheese sauce and adds richness to the casserole. Sour cream adds a tangy note that balances the richness of the soup.
Step 6: In the prepared baking dish, layer the beef mixture, cooked green beans, soup mixture, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers as desired, ending with a layer of cheese on top. Layering the ingredients ensures that each bite of the casserole is a combination of all the flavors and textures. Distribute the ingredients evenly for a visually appealing and balanced dish.
Step 7: Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole. The fried onions add a delightful crunch and savory flavor to the casserole. They also create a golden-brown topping that is visually appealing.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown. The baking time may vary depending on your oven. Check the casserole periodically to prevent the onions from burning.
Step 9: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to slice and serve. Cooling also prevents burning your mouth on the hot cheese.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for so many reasons! First off, it’s a classic comfort food that evokes nostalgic memories of family dinners and potlucks. The combination of savory ground beef, tender green beans, and creamy cheese sauce is simply irresistible.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a hearty and satisfying meal in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious dinner option.
But the best part? This casserole is incredibly versatile. You can customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables, cheeses, or seasonings. Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Prefer a different cheese? Feel free to substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses.
And let’s not forget about the crispy fried onions on top! They add a delightful crunch and savory flavor that takes this casserole to the next level. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist reaching for seconds (or thirds!).
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm as a main course with a side salad or crusty bread.
- Pair it with mashed potatoes or rice for a more substantial meal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- It’s also great as a potluck dish or holiday side dish.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use ground sirloin or ground chuck instead of regular ground beef.
- If using canned green beans, drain them well to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
- Add a layer of cooked mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- To prevent the crispy fried onions from burning, add them during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
- This casserole can also be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information: Calories: Approximately 480 kcal per serving (This is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes). Protein: Approximately 30g per serving (This can vary depending on the type of ground beef used). Sodium: Approximately 800mg per serving (This can vary depending on the amount of salt added and the sodium content of the processed ingredients).
Conclusion
This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate. It is an easy and delicious meal that brings comfort and satisfaction to every bite. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can easily recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this casserole is sure to be a hit.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience. This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is a timeless classic that will bring joy to your table and create lasting memories.
Enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness!
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use frozen green beans instead of canned or fresh?
A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen green beans! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before adding them to the casserole. This will prevent the casserole from becoming too watery. You may also want to blanch them briefly before adding them to ensure they are tender.
Q2: I don’t like cream of mushroom soup. Can I substitute it with something else?
A: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, or even a homemade cheese sauce. The key is to use a creamy base that will bind the ingredients together and add richness to the casserole. For a homemade cheese sauce, melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk until thickened. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
Q3: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! This casserole is a great make-ahead dish. Simply assemble the casserole as directed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.
Q4: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A: There are several ways to make this casserole healthier. You can use lean ground beef or ground turkey to reduce the fat content. You can also add more vegetables, such as diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers, to increase the nutritional value. Use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup or make your own sauce to control the sodium content. Finally, use a lighter cheese, such as reduced-fat cheddar or mozzarella, to reduce the fat and calorie content.
Q5: Can I add a breadcrumb topping to this casserole?
A: Yes, you can definitely add a breadcrumb topping for extra crunch! Simply mix together breadcrumbs (panko or regular), melted butter, and any desired seasonings (such as garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning). Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole before baking. The breadcrumb topping will add a delicious crispy texture to the finished dish.
