Green bean casserole is a timeless favorite, synonymous with comfort and family gatherings. We are taking this beloved classic to the next level by transforming it into a hearty main dish.
This incredible green bean casserole with hamburger offers a savory, satisfying twist that’s perfect for any weeknight. It is easy to prepare, loaded with flavor, and delivers ultimate comfort food appeal.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Green Bean Casserole with Hamburger
This recipe quickly becomes a family favorite. You’ll adore this hearty green bean casserole with hamburger for many reasons.
- It is a quick, satisfying family meal that pleases everyone.
- This recipe provides a hearty twist on a beloved classic.
- You use simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that are easy to find.
- It is perfect for busy weeknights, coming together effortlessly.
- It delivers deliciously comforting flavors in every single bite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The star of this hearty casserole.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds aromatic depth to the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for savory flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) Campbell’s® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: Or unsalted, or cream of celery soup.
- 1/2 cup 2% milk: Creates a creamy, smooth sauce base.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts the savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: A touch of warmth and spice.
- 4 cups cooked cut green beans: The classic vegetable base.
- 1 1/3 cups French’s® French Fried Onions: Divided for ultimate crunch.
Notes & Substitutions
You have choices for your green beans. Use fresh, frozen, or canned. If using fresh, blanch them first until tender-crisp. For frozen, thaw and drain well. Canned beans are convenient; just drain thoroughly. Feel free to swap cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile. For the meat, ground turkey or Italian sausage can replace the ground beef. Ground turkey lightens the dish, while sausage adds more spice. Experiment with cheeses like shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a sprinkle of Parmesan. A dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of dried thyme adds extra flair.
Equipment
Gathering your tools beforehand makes cooking a breeze. You need a large skillet for browning the beef. A 9×13 inch casserole dish holds everything perfectly for baking. Have a couple of mixing bowls ready for combining ingredients. Standard measuring cups and spoons ensure accuracy. Finally, a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon helps with stirring and serving.
Instructions
Creating this flavorful green bean casserole with hamburger is straightforward. Follow these steps for a delicious, comforting meal.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and set it aside.
- Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook until the beef is fully browned, about 6-8 minutes.
- Drain Fat: Carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step is crucial for a less greasy casserole.
- Add Aromatics: Return the skillet to medium heat. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic with the browned beef. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Create the Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until the sauce is smooth and well combined with the beef mixture.
- Incorporate Green Beans: Add the cooked green beans, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Gently fold all the ingredients together until the green beans are evenly coated in the creamy beef sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the entire mixture from the skillet into your prepared 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly to cover the bottom.
- First Onion Layer: Sprinkle two-thirds (about 1 cup) of the French fried onions over the top of the casserole. This layer bakes into the casserole for flavor.
- First Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling around the edges.
- Final Crunch: Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining one-third (about 1/3 cup) of French fried onions over the top.
- Second Bake: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
- Rest and Serve: Let the green bean casserole with hamburger rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set, making it easier to scoop.
Pro Tips for the Best Green Bean Casserole with Hamburger
For an even more amazing green bean casserole with hamburger, keep these tips in mind. Brown your beef thoroughly for maximum flavor development. Always drain excess fat completely after browning the meat. Avoid overcooking green beans in the casserole; they should still have a slight bite. Taste and adjust your seasoning before baking to ensure perfect flavor.
For the best crunch, add French fried onions in two stages as instructed. Letting the casserole rest before serving helps it set and makes for cleaner portions. Finally, choose a good quality condensed soup for the creamiest result.
Serving Suggestions, Storage, and Variations
This hearty green bean casserole with hamburger is a complete meal on its own. For a balanced dinner, serve it alongside a crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette. Crusty bread is excellent for soaking up the delicious creamy sauce. You can also pair it with mashed potatoes or dinner rolls.
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Elevate your green bean casserole with hamburger with simple variations. Stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese with the green beans before baking. For a richer topping, sprinkle extra cheese with the final layer of French fried onions. You can also add other vegetables like corn or peas along with the green beans. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.

Nutrition Information
Please note that this nutrition information is an estimate. It is based on standard ingredient assumptions and preparation methods. Your actual values may vary depending on specific brands, portion sizes, and any substitutions you make. This green bean casserole with hamburger is a hearty and satisfying meal.
Nutrient | Approximate Value per Serving (1/8th of casserole) |
---|---|
Calories | 350-400 kcal |
Protein | 20-25 g |
Total Fat | 20-25 g |
Saturated Fat | 8-10 g |
Carbohydrates | 20-25 g |
Fiber | 3-5 g |
Sodium | 700-800 mg |
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, absolutely! Brown and drain the ground turkey well, just as you would with ground beef.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole mixture (steps 1-8) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add the final onions just before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover green bean casserole with hamburger in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It reheats well in the oven or microwave.
Can I add cheese to the casserole?
Yes, cheese is a great addition! Mix 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the green bean mixture, or sprinkle it on top with the final layer of French fried onions.
Why are my French fried onions soggy?
To keep them crisp, add French fried onions in two stages as instructed. The first layer bakes in, while the second layer stays crispy for serving.
Conclusion
This green bean casserole with hamburger truly offers a delightful and substantial twist on a classic. It combines the nostalgic comfort of a traditional casserole with the satisfying heartiness of a main course. This recipe proves that comforting, homemade meals can be both easy and incredibly delicious. Give this simple, beginner-friendly dish a try for your next family dinner.
For more low-carb comfort food ideas to pair with your Green Bean Casserole with Hamburger, try our creamy Keto Green Bean Casserole, enjoy the savory flavor of Chinese Beef and Broccoli, or dig into a quick family favorite like Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes. Follow me on Pinterest for keto dinners, hearty sides, and recipes full of flavor without the carbs.

Hearty Green Bean Casserole with Hamburger
Equipment
- Oven
- 1 1/2-quart oven safe casserole dish
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) Campbell’s® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup or Unsalted Cream of Mushroom Soup or Cream of Celery Soup
- 1/2 cup 2% milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 4 cups cooked cut green beans
- 1 1/3 cups French’s® French Fried Onions divided
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a 1 1/2-quart oven safe casserole, combine the soup, milk, soy sauce, green beans, and 2/3 cup of the French fried onions, mixing until well combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
- Bake the casserole for 25 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbling. Stir the bean mixture after the initial baking time.
- Sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup of French fried onions over the casserole. Continue to bake for another 5 minutes, or until the onions turn golden brown.
- Allow the green bean casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the casserole set. Store any leftovers in an oven-safe dish for convenient reheating.