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This hamburger green bean casserole puts a hearty spin on the classic side dish by adding ground beef, lots of cheese, and those irresistible crispy fried onions. It makes for a filling, family-friendly meal that brings together the best of comfort food and burger favorites all in one dish.
I first whipped this up on a busy weeknight when I wanted something comforting but easy. Now it’s one of my go-to recipes when I need a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t require too much fuss.
Ingredients
- One pound ground beef or turkey: for rich protein and meaty flavor; choose fresh and lean for the best texture
- One large onion: diced to soften and add sweetness; yellow onions work great here
- Two cloves garlic: minced for a little aromatic kick; fresh garlic always beats pre-minced
- Two cans of green beans: drained or fresh green beans blanched until crisp-tender; fresh adds better texture but canned is convenient
- One can cream of mushroom soup: to create a creamy binding base; look for brands with higher mushroom content if possible
- Half a cup milk or beef broth: to thin out the mixture and keep it moist
- One cup sharp cheddar cheese: shredded to melt over the top with a bite of tanginess; pick a good quality aged cheddar for flavor
- One and a half cups French fried onions: for signature crunch; opt for classic crispy style and add more if you like extra crunch
- One teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: to deepen the savory notes
- Half a teaspoon black pepper: for gentle spiciness
- Half a teaspoon paprika: for mild smoky warmth
- Salt: to taste for seasoning balance
- Optional add-ins: like half a cup diced sautéed mushrooms for earthiness, a tablespoon ketchup or mustard to amplify burger vibes, or cooked bacon crumbles for that smoky finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare your ingredients.
- Cook the Ground Beef and Aromatics:
- In a large skillet set to medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic. Stir frequently until the meat is nicely browned and the onions are translucent and soft. Drain off excess fat to keep the casserole flavorful but not greasy.
- Combine the Casserole Mixture:
- Add your drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk or broth, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and paprika into the skillet. Mix everything thoroughly so the ingredients blend into a creamy, savory mixture.
- Assemble in the Baking Dish:
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top. Then spread the French fried onions on as a crunchy topping layer.
- Bake to Golden Perfection:
- Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the edges bubble and the top becomes golden. Your kitchen will fill with savory smells that make waiting worthwhile.
- Rest and Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool for about five minutes to let it set up slightly. This helps prevent burns and makes it easier to serve. Dish it out and enjoy the blend of cheesy, beefy, and crispy flavors.
Storage tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within three days for best texture. You can reheat this casserole in the oven to maintain the crispy onion topping or use the microwave for quick warming but lose some crunch. For freezing, portion it out and add five to ten minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.
Ingredient substitutions
Ground turkey works well if you want a leaner option but keep flavors bold with a little extra seasoning. Use vegetable broth and dairy-free cream soups to adapt for vegetarian or dairy-sensitive diets, and swap cheese for non-dairy alternatives keeping the sharpness in mind. Fresh green beans add vibrancy but canned is perfectly fine for convenience.
Serving suggestions
Serve this casserole with classic burger sides like pickles, ketchup, and a simple salad. It also pairs nicely with crusty bread or mashed potatoes to soak up the cheesy sauce. For a complete meal, add a side of coleslaw or roasted vegetables.
Cultural context
Green bean casserole is a quintessential American holiday side originating in the 1950s. This hamburger version cleverly combines the nostalgic comfort of that dish with the beloved flavors of a cheeseburger creating a unique family favorite perfect for weeknights or celebrations.
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Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey works as a leaner alternative and maintains a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
- → What is the best way to prepare the green beans?
Fresh green beans should be blanched for 3-4 minutes to keep a tender-crisp texture, while canned beans can be drained and used directly.
- → How do I achieve the perfect crispy topping?
Sprinkle French fried onions evenly on top before baking; they’ll turn golden and crunchy as the casserole cooks.
- → Can this dish be prepared in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble it ahead and refrigerate; just add 10 extra minutes to baking time if cooking from cold.
- → What sides pair well with this casserole?
Serve with pickles and ketchup on the side to accentuate the burger-inspired flavors and add a tangy contrast.
- → Is it possible to add extra veggies?
Yes, mushrooms sautéed and mixed in add depth, and cooked bacon crumbles provide smokiness if desired.