A hearty twist on a classic! This casserole combines savory ground beef, tender green beans, and creamy mushroom sauce—all topped with melty cheese and crispy fried onions. It’s comfort food at its best, perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
📋 Recipe Snapshot
🍽 Servings: 6–8
⏱ Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 25 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 35 minutes
🏷 Tags: Easy Dinner | One Dish Meal | Ground Beef | Classic Casserole
🧄 Ingredients
Main Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 (14.5 oz) cans green beans, drained (or 4 cups fresh/frozen)
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
½ cup milk (or beef broth)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1½ cups French fried onions
Seasonings
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
Salt, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
½ cup diced mushrooms (sauté with onions)
1 tbsp ketchup or mustard (for a tangy burger twist)
Cooked bacon crumbles (for added smokiness)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Brown the Beef & Onions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and onions are tender. Drain excess fat.
2. Mix the Casserole
Stir in green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, and paprika.
Add any optional ingredients now (like mushrooms or ketchup) for extra flavor.
Transfer mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
3. Add Cheese & Toppings
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole.
Top with French fried onions for a crispy, golden finish.
4. Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy as a main dish or a hearty side!
💡 Tips & Variations
Low-Carb Version? Swap green beans with cauliflower or zucchini.
Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Just bake when ready.
Add Spice: Stir in red pepper flakes or diced green chilies for heat.
❓ FAQ
Q: Can I use fresh green beans?
Yes! Blanch them first for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
Q: What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar adds classic flavor, but Colby Jack or Pepper Jack are great too.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.