Forget everything you think you know about green bean casserole. This isn’t your grandma’s holiday side dish; this is a Hamburger Green Bean Casserole, a bold and savory twist on a classic that will leave your taste buds singing. Imagine tender green beans, perfectly cooked, nestled in a creamy, cheesy sauce, and punctuated by the hearty, umami richness of ground beef. It’s a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any weeknight dinner where you crave something special but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. This recipe elevates the humble green bean casserole to new heights, proving that even the most beloved classics can benefit from a little culinary innovation. Prepare to be amazed by this unique and delicious combination!

Hamburger Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Fried Onions
Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 1 medium Onion Chopped
- 1 15-ounce can Green beans Drained
- 1 10.75 ounce can Cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 1 tablespoon Soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1-ounce package Fried onions
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until well combined.
- Add the cooked ground beef and onion mixture to the green bean mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Top with the fried onions.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole Recipe
This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s an experience. It’s a delightful fusion of familiar flavors – the comforting creaminess of a traditional casserole, the satisfying crunch of crispy fried onions, and the undeniable deliciousness of ground beef – all working together in perfect harmony. But what truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and only one pan for easier cleanup. The combination of textures – tender green beans, juicy ground beef, and the satisfying crunch of the fried onions – creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. Looking for a healthier option? Swap out the traditional fried onions for a lower-calorie alternative. Want to add a little spice? Throw in some jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Need a vegetarian option? Simply replace the ground beef with mushrooms or lentils for a hearty and satisfying meatless version. The possibilities are truly endless. This recipe offers a fantastic opportunity to experiment and make it your own, perfectly tailored to your taste preferences and dietary needs. This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to impress your family and friends, and it’s a recipe you’ll be making again and again.
Why You Should Try This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole Recipe
In a world of culinary sameness, this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole stands out. It’s a unique and unforgettable dish that takes a beloved classic and elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Think of it as a culinary adventure – a chance to break free from the predictable and embrace a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a statement. It’s a declaration that you’re not afraid to experiment, to innovate, and to create something truly special in your kitchen.
Beyond the exciting flavor profile, this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole offers significant practical advantages. It’s a one-pan wonder, minimizing cleanup and maximizing your efficiency in the kitchen. The recipe is also incredibly adaptable, allowing you to cater it to your specific dietary needs and preferences. Whether you’re aiming for a healthier version, a vegetarian adaptation, or simply want to add a personal touch, this recipe provides the flexibility you need. And let’s not forget the most important aspect – it’s incredibly delicious. The rich, savory flavor of the ground beef perfectly complements the tender green beans and creamy sauce, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
This recipe is designed for ease and simplicity, requiring readily available ingredients and common kitchen tools. Let’s dive into the specifics:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 1/4 cup Soy Sauce
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can Green Beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup French Fried Onions
Utensils:
- Large skillet (oven-safe preferred)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Can opener
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- 9×13 inch baking dish (if not using an oven-safe skillet)
Note: While an oven-safe skillet simplifies the process, a standard skillet and a separate baking dish work just as well. Choose whichever method best suits your kitchen setup. You can find many great options at your local kitchen store, or even online. Remember to always prioritize safety when using kitchen tools and appliances.
Detailed Recipe Steps for Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Follow these steps for a perfect Hamburger Green Bean Casserole every time:
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Create the Sauce: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until heated through and slightly thickened.
- Add Green Beans: Gently stir in the drained and rinsed green beans. Ensure the beans are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
- Bake (Optional): If using an oven-safe skillet, transfer it to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. If using a regular skillet, transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for the same time.
- Top with Fried Onions: Remove the casserole from the oven and immediately top with the French fried onions. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying side dish with your favorite main course!
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of onion powder or garlic powder to the sauce. You can also experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, for a more intense earthy flavor. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your personal taste preferences.
Tips and Variations for Your Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Here are some ideas to customize it to your liking:
Ingredient Alternatives:
- Meatless Option: Replace the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or 1 cup of sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Healthier Onions: Use oven-baked or air-fried onions as a healthier alternative to traditional French fried onions.
- Creamy Variations: Experiment with different cream soups, like cream of celery or cream of chicken, for a unique flavor profile.
Avoiding Common Mistakes:
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: Overcooked ground beef can become dry and tough. Cook it until just browned and drain off excess grease.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure there’s enough space for the beef to brown evenly. If necessary, cook the beef in batches.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can dry out the casserole. Bake it only until heated through and bubbly.
- Don’t Add Onions Too Early: Add the onions after the beef is browned to prevent them from burning.
Nutritional Values and Benefits of Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
While this recipe is undeniably indulgent, it also offers some nutritional benefits. The green beans are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, and fiber. Ground beef provides protein, iron, and zinc. The cream of mushroom soup adds some calcium, and the onions contribute antioxidants. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate per serving (assuming 6 servings) would include:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
Disclaimer: These are estimated values and may not be completely accurate. For precise nutritional information, you should use a nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients and quantities used in your recipe. Remember to enjoy this dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
FAQs
Is this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole recipe gluten-free?
Can I make this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole ahead of time?
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup in this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole?
How many servings does this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole recipe make?
Conclusion: Embrace the Deliciousness of Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole recipe is a testament to the fact that culinary innovation can transform even the most familiar dishes. It’s a delicious, easy-to-make, and incredibly versatile side dish that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. We’ve explored various tips, tricks, and variations to help you customize this recipe to your preferences, ensuring a memorable culinary experience every time. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own! Remember to share your experience and photos with us in the comments below. And if you’re looking for more delicious casserole recipes, check out our Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole or our Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole – both are sure to be crowd-pleasers!
Happy cooking, and don’t forget to pin this recipe to your Pinterest board for later! Check out more recipes here!