Hamburger Green Bean Casserole

What if you could combine the hearty flavors of a classic burger with the comfort of a creamy casserole?
This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole does just that—savory ground beef, tender green beans, creamy sauce, melty cheese, and a crispy fried onion topping.

It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.

Why This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole Is a Must-Try

This dish captures everything you love about classic comfort food in one pan.
It’s simple, flavorful, and budget-friendly, with ingredients you probably already have on hand.

Prep time is about 20 minutes.
Bake time is about 25 minutes.
In less than an hour, you’ll have a hearty, satisfying meal on the table.

Perfect for cozy family dinners, meal prepping, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (or substitute ground turkey)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (14.5-ounce) cans green beans, drained (or 4 cups fresh/frozen)
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk (or beef broth)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups French fried onions

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt to taste

Optional Add-Ins

• 1/2 cup diced mushrooms (sautéed with onions)
• 1 tablespoon ketchup or mustard (for a burger-like tang)
• Cooked bacon crumbles (for extra smokiness)

Ingredient Tips

• Use fresh or frozen green beans if you prefer more texture over canned beans.
• Sharp cheddar cheese adds bold flavor, but feel free to use a blend of cheeses.
• French fried onions add crunch and a hint of sweetness—don’t skip them.

You can customize the seasoning to your liking by adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of Italian herbs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onions and minced garlic.

Stir occasionally and break up the beef until browned and no longer pink.

Drain off any excess fat.

Step 2: Mix the Casserole
Stir in the green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk (or broth), Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and paprika.

Add salt to taste.

Mix thoroughly to ensure the beef and beans are evenly coated.

If using, stir in optional add-ins like sautéed mushrooms, ketchup, or bacon crumbles.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Toppings
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef and bean mixture.

Top generously with French fried onions for that signature crunch.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the fried onions are golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

This resting time helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.

How to Serve It Perfectly

Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is hearty and satisfying enough to be a meal on its own but also pairs well with simple sides.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm dinner rolls or crusty bread
• Add a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness
• Pair with roasted or mashed potatoes for an ultra-comforting meal
• Offer a simple fruit salad for a fresh finish

It’s perfect for potlucks, casual family dinners, or make-ahead freezer meals.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To store leftovers
Allow the casserole to cool completely.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat
Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 325°F (160°C) oven until heated through.

Cover with foil if reheating in the oven to prevent the fried onions from over-browning.

To freeze
Assemble the casserole without the fried onions and freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.

When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, add the fried onions, and bake as directed.

Make-ahead tip
Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking.
Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking fresh.

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Recipe Variations

1. Tex-Mex Hamburger Casserole
Add a can of drained black beans, a dash of chili powder, and swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.

2. Mushroom and Swiss Casserole
Use Swiss cheese and add extra sautéed mushrooms for a rich, savory variation.

3. Low-Carb Hamburger Green Bean Bake
Skip the milk and replace it with a little heavy cream for a keto-friendly version.

These variations allow you to tweak the casserole to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Conclusion: Comfort Food at Its Best

Hamburger Green Bean Casserole delivers all the comfort of a hearty meal with minimal effort.
It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor and texture.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a reliable potluck dish, this casserole checks all the boxes.

Simple to make, endlessly customizable, and always satisfying.

Have you tried it? Share your favorite add-ins and twists in the comments below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe.

Can I use fresh green beans?
Absolutely. Blanch fresh green beans first for a few minutes to ensure they’re tender.

Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
Yes. Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup are good alternatives.

How do I keep the fried onions from burning?
If needed, tent the casserole with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking if the onions brown too quickly.

Can I add pasta to this casserole?
Yes. Add 2 cups cooked pasta to make it even heartier—adjust the liquid slightly to keep it creamy.