Hamburger Green Bean Casserole with Mushrooms
A hearty casserole blending savory beef, crisp green beans, and creamy mushrooms for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend) The mix of meat and fat provides juicy richness.
- 2 cups green beans (trimmed, fresh or thawed frozen) Adds a delightful crunch and color.
- 1 cup diced onion (yellow or white) The flavor base of this casserole.
- 1 cup sliced button or baby bella mushrooms Adds a wonderful umami punch.
- 3 tsp minced garlic (fresh) Elevates any comfort dish.
Broth and Cream
- ¼ cup low-sodium beef or chicken broth Keeps everything moist and enhances flavor.
- ⅓ cup full-fat sour cream For a rich, creamy texture.
- 2 Tbsp cream cheese (room temperature) Adds extra creaminess.
Seasonings
- ½ tsp sea salt (or to taste) Enhances all the flavors.
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper Complements the dish.
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce Brings out savory notes.
- ⅛ tsp dried thyme Adds subtle herbal flavor.
Cheese Topping
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese Melted cheese creates a delicious, gooey topping.
Instructions
Brown the Beef
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it up with your spatula until no pink remains.
- Drain, reserving about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pan, and set the beef aside.
Sauté Aromatics
- In the reserved fat, cook diced onions for 3–4 minutes until they become translucent.
- Add the mushrooms and sauté for another 2 minutes until they begin to caramelize.
Add Beans & Seasonings
- Stir in the green beans, minced garlic, and broth. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the beans turn bright green and stay crisp-tender.
Create Creamy Base
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the cream cheese and stir until smooth, then blend in the sour cream.
Combine & Season
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Stir until evenly coated.
Cheese Topping
- Sprinkle the Colby Jack evenly over the surface.
Melt & Serve
- Option A (broiler): Place the skillet under the broiler for 1–2 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Option B (stovetop): Cover and cook on low for 3–4 minutes until the cheese melts.
Notes
Don’t skip the broil for a golden top! This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. It is freezer-friendly for 2-3 months.