- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken for variety)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, but adds depth)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (such as French’s, for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole pan.
2. Cook the Beef and Veggies
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and cook for another 3–4 minutes, or until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Build the Casserole Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Stir in the green beans and ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
4. Assemble and Bake
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.
5. Add the Crunchy Topping
- Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden and crunchy.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot as a main dish or alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Green Beans: If using fresh green beans, blanch them for 3–4 minutes in boiling water, then plunge them into ice water to retain their vibrant color and crisp texture.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add the crispy onions just before baking.
- Add Extras: Sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or grated carrots can add extra flavor and nutrition.
- Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes beautifully. Cover tightly and freeze unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, adding the crispy onions during the last 5 minutes.
Why This Recipe Works
This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole brings together the best of both worlds: the rich, savory flavors of ground beef and the fresh, healthy crunch of green beans. The creamy sauce ties everything together, while the cheesy topping and crispy onions add layers of indulgence. It’s a comforting, satisfying dish that’s easy to customize and guaranteed to please a crowd.
Conclusion: A Comfort Food Classic
Whether you’re hosting a potluck, feeding your family, or simply craving something hearty and comforting, this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is sure to hit the spot. Its creamy texture, bold flavors, and crispy topping make it a standout dish that’s as easy to love as it is to make. Plus, its versatility means you can adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your twist on this cheesy, beefy casserole might just inspire others to try it too! 🍔🌱✨