Green Bean Hamburger Casserole You’ll Make on Repeat

What Is the Recipe for Green Bean Hamburger Casserole?

If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that’s easy to make and packs a punch of flavor, you’re in the right place. 

Green bean hamburger casserole is one of those classic dishes that feels like a cozy hug after a long day—simple, satisfying, and full of tasty goodness. 

In this post, we’ll walk you through what this casserole is all about, how to make it step-by-step, and why it’s actually great for keto eaters too. 

Plus, we’ll share some handy tips, smart serving ideas, and storage hacks to keep your meal game strong. 

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this casserole is a winner you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation. 

Ready to cook up something delicious?

A serving of green bean hamburger casserole on a white plate
A serving of green bean hamburger casserole on a white plate

Table of Contents:

What Is Green Bean Hamburger Casserole?

A white casserole dish filled with green bean hamburger casserole
A white casserole dish filled with green bean hamburger casserole

Green bean hamburger casserole is like a cozy hug in a dish—creamy, cheesy, and packed with hearty ground beef and tender green beans

It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to grab a fork and dive right in, with every bite balancing savory meat, fresh veggies, and that irresistible gooey cheese. 

Imagine comfort food’s cooler, healthier cousin who’s still super satisfying but feels a little lighter on your plate. It’s perfect for those days when you want something homey but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. 

Simply put, it’s tasty, filling, and downright comforting all wrapped up in one skillet.

Is Green Bean Hamburger Casserole Keto-Friendly?

A bowl of green bean hamburger casserole topped with crispy fried onions
A bowl of green bean hamburger casserole topped with crispy fried onions

Absolutely! This casserole fits nicely into a keto lifestyle without sacrificing any of the comfort or flavor. Why? Because it’s loaded with low-carb ingredients like green beans and mushrooms, plus hearty ground beef for that satisfying protein and fat punch. 

The creamy mix of cream cheese and sour cream adds richness without the carbs, and the melted cheddar cheese on top? That’s pure keto gold.

Unlike some casseroles that sneak in hidden carbs with bread crumbs or starchy fillers, this one keeps it clean and simple. 

So if you’re keeping carbs low but don’t want to miss out on a warm, cheesy, meaty dish that feels like a treat, green bean hamburger casserole is your new best friend. 

Keto dinner, check!

Ingredients To Prepare

You won’t need anything complicated for this one. In fact, you probably already have most of these ingredients waiting in your fridge or pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Green Beans: These tender, crisp veggies bring a fresh, slightly sweet crunch that balances the rich, creamy elements of the casserole.
  • Ground Beef: The hearty star of the dish, ground beef adds savory depth and satisfying protein that makes this casserole feel like a real meal.
  • Garlic: Just a hint of garlic adds a warm, aromatic kick that lifts all the other flavors without overpowering the dish.
  • Onion: Softened onions bring a mild sweetness and subtle bite that pairs perfectly with the beef and mushrooms.
  • Mushrooms: Earthy and tender, mushrooms add a meaty texture and deepen the savory profile of the casserole.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: This little splash brings umami richness and a tangy complexity that ties all the flavors together.
  • Sour Cream: Creamy and tangy, sour cream lightens the richness while keeping the casserole silky and smooth.
  • Cream Cheese: Adds luscious creaminess that melts into the mix, giving the casserole a velvety, indulgent texture.
  • Colby Jack Cheese: Melted over the top, this cheese delivers gooey, mild sharpness that makes every bite irresistible.
  • Beef Broth: Used to gently simmer the veggies, beef broth infuses the dish with extra savory flavor and moistness.
  • Dried Thyme: A subtle herbaceous note that adds warmth and a hint of earthiness, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.
  • Salt: The essential seasoning that brightens and balances every ingredient in the casserole.
  • Ground Black Pepper: Adds a mild spicy edge and depth, waking up the flavors without stealing the show.

Each of these ingredients plays its own special role, coming together to create a casserole that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

Ingredient Measurement

Here’s a simple breakdown of what you’ll need to whip up this tasty, cozy dish without any guesswork:

  • 2 cups of green beans
  • 1 pound of ground beef
  • 3 teaspoons of garlic, minced
  • 1 cup of onion, diced
  • 1 cup of mushrooms
  • ½ teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
  • ⅓ cup of sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons of cream cheese
  • 2 cups of Colby Jack cheese, shredded
  • ¼ cup of beef broth
  • ⅛ teaspoon of dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon of salt
  • ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper

Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need a ton of fancy gadgets for this one. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

  • Cast-iron skillet
  • Spatula
  • Plate
  • Kitchen knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cup
  • Broiler or stovetop with lid

How To Make Green Bean Hamburger Casserole

A glass dish filled with green bean hamburger casserole topped with sliced cherry tomatoes
A glass dish filled with green bean hamburger casserole topped with sliced cherry tomatoes

Making green bean hamburger casserole is surprisingly easy, even on a busy weeknight. It’s one of those no-fuss, all-flavor recipes that feels like comfort food without the hassle. 

You don’t need any fancy techniques — just simple ingredients and a little kitchen heat. Here’s how it comes together.

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Sauté the Vegetables

  • Start by heating a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. 
  • Add the ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned, about 5 minutes. 
  • Once done, transfer the beef to a plate and carefully drain the excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
  • In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onions and cook over medium heat for 3 minutes, or until they begin to soften. 
  • Stir in the mushrooms and continue to cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients

  • Next, mix in the green beans, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Let everything cook together for 2-3 minutes until the green beans and vegetables are tender.
  • Lower the heat to medium-low, then stir in the cream cheese until it begins to melt. 
  • Follow with the sour cream, mixing until smooth and creamy.
  • Return the cooked beef to the skillet. 
  • Season with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring everything gently until well combined.

Step 3: Melt the Cheese and Finish the Dish

  • Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture.
  • To finish, place the skillet under the broiler for 2 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. 
  • If you prefer using the stovetop, cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 3-4 minutes until the cheese is fully melted. (Note: the stovetop method will give you melty cheese, but it won’t brown like under the broiler.)

Green Bean Hamburger Casserole Nutrition

A black plate of green bean hamburger casserole with sautéed ground beef, onions, and peppers
A black plate of green bean hamburger casserole with sautéed ground beef, onions, and peppers

Curious about the macros? If you make this dish keto-style without added fillers, here’s the breakdown per serving:

  • Calories: 474 kcal
  • Total Fat: 32 grams
  • Net Carbs: 7 grams
  • Protein: 36 grams

Keep in mind these numbers can shift slightly depending on your ingredients (like the type of cheese or cream used).

Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Green Bean Hamburger Casserole

A rectangular white plate of green bean hamburger casserole served on a patterned napkin with a gold fork
A rectangular white plate of green bean hamburger casserole served on a patterned napkin with a gold fork

Want to make your casserole extra delicious? A few little tricks can take this simple dish from good to seriously crave-worthy. Here are some easy tips to help you nail it:

  • Use Fresh Green Beans When Possible: Fresh green beans give the dish a nice snap and vibrant color. If you’re in a pinch, frozen works too. Just thaw and drain them first.
  • Don’t Skip the Broil: That golden, bubbly cheese topping makes a huge difference. A quick trip under the broiler adds flavor and texture you won’t get from a covered skillet.
  • Choose a Good Melting Cheese: Colby Jack melts like a dream, but you can swap in cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend if that’s what you have.
  • Drain the Beef Well: Leaving too much grease in the skillet can make the casserole heavy. Aim to leave just a touch behind for flavor without the extra oil.
  • Pre-Chop Everything: Having your veggies and seasonings ready to go makes the cooking process smoother and quicker, especially when things heat up on the stove.
  • Baking and Broiling for Perfect Texture: Before you start, preheat oven and set your broiler to get that perfect golden cheese topping. While potatoes and pasta aren’t part of this casserole, if you want to experiment by adding potatoes, remember to bake them separately first since they need more time to cook through. Many recipe sites and even advertising may suggest tossing everything in a bag or pouring liquid over the mix, but don’t just rely on what pops up in your browser. For this dish, layering flavors step-by-step yields the best results. Baking the casserole after carefully mixing the ingredients helps everything meld beautifully, giving you a rich, comforting finish every time.

Small details, big flavor wins. Remember these next time you’re craving a skillet full of comfort.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

A blue baking dish filled with green bean hamburger casserole
A blue baking dish filled with green bean hamburger casserole

Whether you’re dishing it up for a casual weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend get-together, here are some easy ideas to serve and pair this cozy, cheesy classic:

Serving Ideas

  • Straight from the Skillet: Keep it rustic and fuss-free by serving it hot in the skillet — fewer dishes, more charm.
  • Over Cauliflower Rice: Want to make it a heartier low-carb meal? Spoon the casserole over a bed of buttery cauliflower rice for a satisfying bite.
  • With a Crisp Side Salad: Balance the rich, creamy flavors with a fresh salad tossed in a light vinaigrette.

Pairing Ideas

  • Dry White Wine: A chilled glass of sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio cuts through the richness beautifully.
  • Sparkling Water with Lemon: Keep it simple and refreshing with sparkling water and a twist of fresh lemon or lime.
  • Iced Herbal Tea: A cool glass of unsweetened iced tea like peppermint or chamomile, makes a mellow, soothing pairing.

Simple, cozy pairings like these make your casserole meal feel extra satisfying without any fuss. Keep these ideas handy for the next time you’re craving something hearty and comforting!

How To Store Green Bean Hamburger Casserole

A floral plate of green bean hamburger casserole with a tomato and onion garnish in the background
A floral plate of green bean hamburger casserole with a tomato and onion garnish in the background

Made a big batch and ended up with leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store it properly to keep it tasting just as good the next day.

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze individual portions in sealed containers for up to 3 months.
  • To Reheat: Pop it in the microwave for a couple of minutes or warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through.

More Keto Recipes You Can Make at Home

If this casserole’s your vibe, you’ll probably love these too:

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Meat Can I Use Besides Ground Beef?

You can sub in ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even sausage if you’d like. Each one adds a slightly different flavor and fat content, so pick what suits your tastes and diet goals.

Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?

Yes! Mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or chopped spinach work beautifully here. Just make sure to sauté them first to avoid extra moisture that might make the casserole watery.

Can I Use Cream of Mushroom Soup Instead of Cream Cheese and Sour Cream?

Absolutely! Just note it’s higher in carbs and less tangy, so it may not suit keto diets or those wanting that rich, silky finish.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it — everything you need to know about making a killer green bean hamburger casserole. It’s cozy, keto-friendly, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable. 

Whether you bake it up in your oven, air fryer, or slow cooker, it’s one of those feel-good dinners that always hits the spot.

If you’re into high-fat diet recipes that keep you satisfied without the carb crash, this one should be on your regular rotation. 

Give it a shot this week, and don’t forget to check out our website for even more easy, delicious keto-friendly recipes you can whip up at home.

Happy cooking!