Hamburger Green Bean Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
If you’re in search of a hearty and comforting meal that brings the family together, look no further than the Hamburger Green Bean Casserole. This delightful dish combines seasoned ground beef, vibrant green beans, and creamy cheese into a wholesome casserole that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your home.
A Personal Story Behind My Hamburger Green Bean Casserole Journey
Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the dinner table every Sunday for a big meal. My mother often made her famous green bean casserole, but it was her secret addition of ground beef that truly made it special. The combination of flavors always brought warmth and comfort, and I fondly remember the laughter and stories shared over that meal. Now, I love to recreate that same experience with my Hamburger Green Bean Casserole, bringing family and friends together over a dish that holds so many cherished memories.
What Makes This Hamburger Green Bean Casserole Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out not only for its delicious taste but also for its versatility. You can easily modify it to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. The combination of creamy sour cream and cheese gives it a rich texture, while the green beans add a pop of color and nutrients. Plus, it’s made in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
The Full Hamburger Green Bean Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups green beans
- 1 cup diced onion
- 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
- 1 cup Colby jack cheese, shredded (reduce to 1/2 cup for a less cheesy option)
- 1/8 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- In a cast-iron skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, approximately 5 minutes. Remove the beef, drain excess grease, leaving 1 tablespoon in the skillet for sautéing the vegetables.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onions over medium heat until they begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add the green beans, garlic, and chicken broth to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 more minutes until the green beans and other vegetables are tender. Tip: Fresh green beans work best, but you can use frozen if that’s what you have.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the cream cheese and sour cream until well blended.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Gently mix everything together.
- Sprinkle the shredded Colby jack cheese over the top of the mixture.
- Place the skillet in the oven and broil for 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and browned. Alternatively, cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 3-4 minutes on the stovetop until the cheese melts. Note: Cheese won’t be crispy if using the stovetop method, but it will be deliciously melted.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
This casserole is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. For variations, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even some cooked rice for a heartier dish. If you prefer a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You can also substitute the Colby jack cheese with cheddar for a sharper flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the oven until warmed through and the cheese melts.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.
Enjoy this delicious and cheesy beef and green bean skillet for a comforting meal!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 350
- Servings: 4
Hamburger Green Bean Casserole
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet Ideal for even cooking and easy serving.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cup green beans
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup mushrooms
- 3 tsp minced garlic
- 0.25 cup beef or chicken broth
- 0.33 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp cream cheese
- 0.5 tsp sea salt
- 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
- 0.5 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup Colby jack cheese, shredded Reduce to 1/2 cup for a less cheesy option
- 0.125 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- In a cast-iron skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, approximately 5 minutes. Remove the beef, drain excess grease, leaving 1 tablespoon in the skillet for sautéing the vegetables.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onions over medium heat until they begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add the green beans, garlic, and chicken broth to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 more minutes until the green beans and other vegetables are tender. Tip: Fresh green beans work best, but you can use frozen if that's what you have.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the cream cheese and sour cream until well blended.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Gently mix everything together.
- Sprinkle the shredded Colby jack cheese over the top of the mixture.
- Place the skillet in the oven and broil for 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and browned. Alternatively, cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 3-4 minutes on the stovetop until the cheese melts. Note: Cheese won't be crispy if using the stovetop method, but it will be deliciously melted.