Hamburger Green Bean Casserole

Hamburger green bean casserole is the kind of cozy comfort food I crave when I need something hearty that everyone at my table will love It layers savory ground beef green beans and a creamy mushroom base then gets topped with plenty of crispy onions and cheese for the best mix of flavors and textures A simple and filling one pan bake this classic is a hit at family dinners or any night you want fuss free deliciousness

Ingredients

• Ground beef: This makes the dish heartier and adds rich flavor Choose 80 or 85 percent lean for the best texture
• Green beans: These bring in freshness and a little crunch Use canned for convenience but you can swap in fresh blanched beans too
• Cream of mushroom soup: Creating a creamy binder that holds the filling together opt for a good quality soup for more depth
• Milk: This loosens the soup and makes the sauce smoother Whole milk gives a richer mouthfeel
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Both amp up the savory notes and add aromatic depth Buy the freshest spices possible for a stronger taste
• Salt and pepper: These basics sharpen all the flavors Taste before adding too much
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty and golden it brings the yummy gooey layer medium or sharp cheddar works well
• French fried onions: For a crispy finish always add these right before the end to keep them crunchy Try to find a brand that has a fresh taste and bright color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and wait until it is fully preheated This gets the bake started evenly and ensures good results

Cook the Ground Beef:

Place the beef in a large skillet and cook over medium heat Break it up as you go stirring often When no pink remains and it is nicely browned drain the excess fat This step is important for keeping the casserole from getting greasy

Prepare the Filling:

Transfer the cooked beef to a large mixing bowl Add the drained green beans cream of mushroom soup milk garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper Stir slowly and thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined This creates the creamy beefy filling that holds the casserole together

Assemble the Casserole:

Coat your nine by thirteen inch baking dish with a bit of cooking spray or butter Spread the beef and green bean filling in an even layer and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese all over the top Distribute the cheese from edge to edge to guarantee an even melt

Bake:

Put the casserole in your preheated oven for about twenty five minutes You want the cheese melted and the filling hot and bubbling around the edges

Add the Topping:

Take out the dish and scatter the French fried onions on top Place it back in the oven for another five to ten minutes When the onions are golden and smell toasted remove from the oven This trick ensures they stay extra crisp

Serve:

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving This helps everything set and keeps the slices neat

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Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days Warm single servings in the microwave or reheat larger portions in a covered dish in the oven at a low temperature Covering helps the casserole stay moist Unless prepping for a crowd keep the fried onions separate until serving since they soften with storage

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to lighten things up Fresh green beans are perfect if you have them on hand For a gluten free version choose gluten free cream soup and French fried onions Add chopped mushrooms or bell peppers for more veggies

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Serving Suggestions

Pair with a lightly dressed green salad or steamed broccoli for brightness A side of crusty bread goes a long way to soak up the creamy sauce If you are serving kids consider adding a handful of tater tots on top before baking for a playful twist

Cultural and Historical Context

This casserole has strong roots in classic American home cooking and especially in the Midwest Recipes like this boomed in popularity in the postwar years when canned soup became a pantry staple It is a true comfort dish that brings generations together and stretches simple ingredients into a crowd pleasing meal

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?

Yes, fresh green beans work well. Blanch them briefly before mixing to ensure tenderness in the final dish.

→ What kind of cheese pairs best with this meal?

Shredded cheddar delivers a classic sharp flavor, but Monterey Jack or Colby are delicious substitutions.

→ Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve. Add the fried onions right before the final bake.

→ Do I need to drain the cooked ground beef?

Yes, draining excess fat prevents the casserole from becoming greasy and helps maintain the right texture.

→ How can I make this meal more flavorful?

Try adding sautéed fresh onions, a pinch of smoked paprika, or fresh herbs like thyme for extra depth.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Cool completely, portion, and freeze for up to three months. Reheat until hot throughout.