A Cozy, One-Dish Classic That Brings Comfort to the Table

When comfort food is calling, this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole answers with savory satisfaction. Combining seasoned ground beef, tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and a golden topping of crispy fried onions or melted cheese, this casserole is the kind of dish that tastes like home.

Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or chilly evenings, this hearty one-dish wonder is easy to make and always hits the spot. It’s a meal-in-one that’s both budget-friendly and belly-warming.

🌟 Why This Recipe Works

There’s a reason casseroles are timeless, and this one’s no exception:

One-Dish Wonder
Meat, veggies, sauce, and topping—all baked together for easy cleanup.

Hearty and Filling
Ground beef adds protein while green beans bring freshness and texture.

Creamy, Savory Flavor
Cream of mushroom soup and seasoning create a cozy, crave-worthy base.

Quick to Assemble
Just brown the meat, mix, layer, and bake.

Family-Approved Classic
Old-school flavor with ingredients everyone loves.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 lb ground beef – Lean is best to avoid excess grease

  • 1 small yellow onion, diced – Adds aromatic depth

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Optional but boosts flavor

  • 2 (14.5 oz) cans green beans, drained – Or 3 cups fresh or frozen, blanched

  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup – The creamy binder

  • ½ cup milk – To loosen the sauce slightly

  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce – For a savory punch

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Divided

  • 1 cup crispy fried onions – For a crunchy topping (optional but classic)

💡 Pro Tip: Swap in cream of chicken or celery if you’re not a mushroom fan!

🍲 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion (and garlic, if using) until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Mix the Base

To the skillet, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine into a creamy beef mixture.

Step 4: Add Green Beans

Gently fold in the drained green beans and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until evenly combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.

Step 7: Add the Crunch

In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle fried onions over the top and return to the oven until golden and crispy.

🔄 Variations to Try

Want to shake it up? Here are some ideas:

  • Swap Proteins: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles

  • Use Fresh Veggies: Add carrots, corn, or peas for color and texture

  • Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced green chilies

  • Low-Carb Option: Skip the fried onions and use sautéed mushrooms and extra green beans

  • Cheese Lovers: Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a melty twist

🍽️ Serving Ideas

This casserole shines as the main course but pairs well with:

  • Garlic bread or dinner rolls

  • A side salad with ranch or vinaigrette

  • Mashed potatoes or rice for extra comfort

  • Roasted carrots or corn on the cob

For a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, double the recipe and bake in a larger pan.

📦 Make Ahead + Storage Tips

Make Ahead

Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Add the crispy topping just before baking.

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.

Freezing

Freeze before baking for best results. Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.

🧊 Tip: If freezing after baking, know the texture of green beans and cheese may soften slightly.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes! Just thaw and pat dry first. You can also blanch them briefly to soften.

Can I make it without canned soup?
Definitely—substitute with a homemade roux-based sauce or use a cream cheese and broth mix for a creamy alternative.

Is this gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free cream soup and topping.

Can I double this for a crowd?
Yes, just bake it in a larger pan and add 10–15 minutes to the baking time.

What’s a good topping besides fried onions?
Try buttered breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or extra cheese.

🍴 Final Thoughts

Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is everything we love about old-fashioned comfort food: easy, satisfying, and perfect for gathering around the dinner table. It’s the kind of cozy meal that keeps plates clean and bellies full—and chances are, you’ll want to make it again next week.