Hamburger Green Bean Casserole

This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is a delightful comfort dish that combines the hearty flavors of ground beef with fresh green beans and creamy cheese. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings, this casserole is not only easy to prepare but also gluten-free and low-carb. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This casserole cooks in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of ground beef, green beans, and cheese creates a rich and savory taste.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or a side, this dish fits well into various meal plans.
• Healthy Option: It’s gluten-free and low-carb, making it suitable for keto diets.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and comforting flavors, even picky eaters will enjoy it.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your Hamburger Green Bean Casserole efficiently, gather these essential tools:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast-iron skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet: Ensures even cooking and excellent heat retention, perfect for browning meat.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife helps make quick work of chopping vegetables for the casserole.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving balanced flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups green beans
• 1 cup onion (diced)
• 1 cup mushrooms
• 3 tsp minced garlic
• 1/4 cup beef or chicken broth
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 2 Tbsp cream cheese
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups Colby jack cheese (shredded; cut back to 1 cup for a less cheesy option)
• 1/8 tsp dried thyme

How to Make Hamburger Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a cast-iron skillet, cook the ground beef on medium heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the ground beef and drain grease, leaving 1 Tbsp of the grease in the pan to sauté the vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Mushrooms

In the same skillet, cook the chopped onions over medium heat until they start to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the mushrooms to the pan and cook for 2 minutes more.

Step 3: Add Remaining Vegetables

Add in the green beans, garlic, and chicken broth. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the green beans and other vegetables are softened.

Step 4: Mix in Creamy Ingredients

Turn down the heat to medium-low. Add cream cheese followed by sour cream; stir until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Add the cooked beef back into the pan along with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 6: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of your mixture.

Step 7: Broil or Cook on Stovetop

Place the entire dish in the oven and broil for about 2 minutes until the cheese is browned and melted. Alternatively, you can cover with a lid on the stovetop and cook for 3-4 minutes until melted. Note that using stovetop won’t give you crispy cheese but will ensure it melts deliciously.

Enjoy your homemade Hamburger Green Bean Casserole!

How to Serve Hamburger Green Bean Casserole

Serving your Hamburger Green Bean Casserole can elevate the meal experience. Here are some ideas to enhance your dish and make it a complete meal.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve the casserole directly from the skillet for a cozy, homey vibe.
• Pair with a simple side salad to add freshness.

Potluck Gathering

• Transfer the casserole to a large serving dish for easy sharing.
• Bring along some crusty gluten-free bread for guests to enjoy with the casserole.

Weeknight Meal

• Dish out individual portions for quick weeknight dinners.
• Offer toppings like sliced green onions or extra cheese for customization.

Game Day Feast

• Serve in small portions as finger food with toothpicks for easy snacking.
• Pair with nachos or buffalo wings for a fun spread.

How to Perfect Hamburger Green Bean Casserole

Creating the perfect Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your casserole is delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Cook meat fully: Ensure the ground beef is browned evenly for better flavor throughout the dish.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for unique flavors.
• Broil carefully: Keep an eye on the cheese while broiling to avoid burning it.

Best Side Dishes for Hamburger Green Bean Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Hamburger Green Bean Casserole can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options that complement its rich flavors.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread adds crunch and flavor, perfect for soaking up any sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing balances the casserole’s richness.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli offers a healthy, vibrant side that contrasts nicely.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a nutty flavor and crispy texture that pairs well with the soft casserole.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch, enhancing the overall meal experience.
6. Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative that complements the casserole without overwhelming it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hamburger Green Bean Casserole, it’s easy to overlook key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the greasing: Not using enough grease in the skillet can cause vegetables to stick. Always leave a little grease in the pan after browning the meat.

• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender-crisp for the best texture in your casserole.

• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in bland flavors. Make sure to add salt, pepper, and other spices early on for maximum flavor infusion.

• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream cheese or sour cream can cool down your dish. Let them sit at room temperature before mixing them in.

• Not broiling long enough: Broiling is key for that golden cheese topping. Watch closely to avoid burning while achieving that perfect melt.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Hamburger Green Bean Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil.
• It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Hamburger Green Bean Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power until warm, checking every minute.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Hamburger Green Bean Casserole that may help you while preparing this dish.

Can I use chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option while keeping the casserole delicious.

How do I make it dairy-free?

To make Hamburger Green Bean Casserole dairy-free, replace sour cream and cream cheese with non-dairy alternatives like cashew cream or coconut yogurt.

What are some good side dishes?

Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots based on your preference and what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

Hamburger Green Bean Casserole is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different meats or veggies based on your cravings. Whether you’re looking for comfort food during the week or a satisfying dish for gatherings, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table!