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This cheesy hamburger green bean casserole is my answer for those nights when I need a quick crowd-pleaser that feels just like home. The creamy mushroom soup brings everything together, the French fried onions add a crave-worthy crunch, and it only takes a few minutes to prep before dinner is bubbling away in the oven.
When I first tried this, I was searching for a hearty dinner with minimal fuss, and now my friends beg me for the recipe every holiday potluck.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Brings rich savory flavor and heartiness to the dish; choose 80 or 85 percent lean for best results
- Canned green beans: Add convenience and color; drain well to avoid watering down the casserole
- Cream of mushroom soup: Creates a luscious creamy texture; opt for a low sodium version if you like
- Milk: Helps loosen the sauce and adds silkiness; whole milk is perfect
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Provides an irresistibly melty topping; choose sharp cheddar and grate it fresh if possible
- French fried onions: Deliver that signature crispy finish; look for golden and fresh onions for best crunch
- Garlic powder: Adds a gentle warmth and depth; choose a fresh jar for the best flavor
- Onion powder: Infuses the whole casserole with savory notes
- Salt and pepper to taste: Rounds out all the flavors; use kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. That ensures even baking and helps the top brown to perfection.
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- Place the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up with a spatula and cook until completely brown; no pink should remain. This usually takes about eight minutes. Drain off excess fat so the casserole feels rich but not greasy.
- Mix the Filling:
- In a very large bowl, combine your cooked ground beef, drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly blended. The soup and milk will coat each bite with creamy goodness.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spray or grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish. Spread the beef and green bean mixture into the dish. Press gently so it fills every edge. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top for that perfect gooey layer that browns up in the oven.
- Bake and Finish with French Fried Onions:
- Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about twenty five minutes or until hot and bubbly. Remove from oven and spread the French fried onions all over the top. Return for another five to ten minutes until the onions are crispy and caramel colored. Let stand for a few minutes before serving to help slices hold their shape.
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I absolutely love how those French fried onions taste straight from the oven and my kids are always negotiating for who gets the crispiest section. Adding sharp cheddar reminds me of my grandma’s Sunday dinners and I would always sneak a little extra cheese over my corner.
Storage Tips
Let the casserole cool completely before covering and placing in the fridge. Use an airtight container or wrap the dish tightly with foil to help the casserole stay moist for up to three days. If you want to freeze it, assemble without the fried onions, then bake fresh and add toppings after reheating for best texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ground turkey or chicken for beef if you want something lighter. You can use fresh steamed green beans for more crunch or even mix in carrots or corn for variety. If you do not have French fried onions, try a topping of buttered breadcrumbs or crispy potato sticks for another type of crunch.
Serving Suggestions
A simple green salad makes a refreshing side and lightens up the meal. Buttered rolls or crusty bread are perfect for soaking up every bit of the casserole’s creamy sauce. Sometimes I serve with applesauce for a sweet, cool contrast that complements all the savory notes.
Cultural and Family Context
Hamburger green bean casserole has its roots in classic American potlucks and Sunday family dinners. It is a cousin to the famous green bean casserole that always appears at Thanksgiving, but the ground beef and cheddar turn it into a stick-to-your-ribs weeknight dish. My family has enjoyed variations of this since my childhood—it still means comfort and togetherness at our table.
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Enjoy a dish that's simple enough for weeknights but special enough to bring everyone together.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, blanch fresh green beans until tender before mixing them into the casserole for an added fresh taste and crispness.
- → Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
Swap with cream of chicken or celery soup, or make a homemade white sauce for a personalized flavor.
- → How do I prevent the casserole from becoming greasy?
Drain all excess fat after browning the ground beef to keep the dish lighter and prevent sogginess.
- → Do I have to use French fried onions on top?
French fried onions bring crunch and flavor, but you can use buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as an alternative.
- → Can this casserole be prepared in advance?
Assemble ahead and refrigerate, then bake when ready. Add French fried onions just before baking for best texture.