Hamburger Green Bean Casserole: Simple Weeknight Comfort (Print Version)

Hamburger Green Bean Casserole Recipe for a comforting, easy dinner. This family favorite combines savory ground beef, tender green beans, and a creamy sauce.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Comfort Food

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean)
02 - 2 cans (14.5 oz each) green beans, drained

→ Creamy Sauce Elements

03 - 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
04 - 1/2 cup milk

→ Flavor Boosters

05 - 1 small onion, chopped
06 - 1 tsp garlic powder
07 - Salt & black pepper, to taste

→ Finishing Touches

08 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
09 - 1 cup crispy fried onions

# Instructions:

01 - Alright, first things first, grab your biggest skillet and get it hot over medium-high heat. Toss in that ground beef and chop it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s mostly browned, add in your chopped onion. Let them cook together until the beef is fully browned and the onion is softened and smelling sweet – oh, that smell! This is where the magic starts. I always forget to drain the grease *before* adding the onion, which usually results in a little sizzle show. Don't be like me, drain that fat!
02 - Once your beef is beautifully browned and the onions are tender, it's time to drain any excess grease. I usually tilt the pan and use a spoon to push the meat to one side, then scoop the grease out. It’s a bit messy, but essential. Now, sprinkle in your garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to make sure all that delicious beef is coated. I always take a little sniff here; it's so inviting. This step is crucial for building flavor in your casserole.
03 - In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the can of cream of mushroom soup and the milk. You want it smooth and lump-free. I once didn't whisk enough, and we had little soup blobs in the casserole—oops! Pour this creamy mixture over your seasoned beef and onions in the skillet. Stir it all together until everything is well combined and looking wonderfully saucy. This is the heart of your Hamburger Green Bean Casserole's comfort.
04 - Now, gently fold in those drained green beans. Be careful not to mash them too much; we want them intact, you know? Just a gentle stir until they’re evenly coated in that savory, creamy sauce. At this point, I sometimes sneak a little taste of the sauce, just to check the seasoning. Don't judge! It's important to make sure it's just right before it bakes. This mix is already looking delicious.
05 - Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Carefully spoon the entire mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle that shredded cheddar cheese generously all over the top. Honestly, don't be shy with the cheese! This is where the golden, bubbly crust comes from. I once used too small a dish and it overflowed in the oven, creating a cheesy mess. Learn from my mistakes!
06 - Pop your casserole into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes. You're looking for it to be hot and bubbly, with the cheese melted and lightly golden. For the last 5 minutes, pull it out and scatter those crispy fried onions all over the top. Then, return it to the oven just until they’re warmed through and slightly crisp. The aroma filling your kitchen will be pure comfort. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, if you can wait!

# Notes:

01 - Don't overcrowd your skillet when browning the beef; it steams instead of browns, and you lose that delicious crust!
02 - Assemble the casserole without the fried onions and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours, adding onions before baking.
03 - If you don't have crispy fried onions, crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter make a fantastic, buttery topping.
04 - Serve with a crisp side salad to cut through the richness, or fluffy mashed potatoes for ultimate comfort.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Large skillet
02 - medium bowl
03 - 9x13 inch baking dish
04 - whisk

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 450-550
Total Fat: 30-40g
Total Carbohydrate: 25-35g
Protein: 25-35g

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