Name: Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole: A Cozy Weeknight Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef (80/20 for juicy flavor); 2 Medium Potatoes (Boil until fork-tender); 2 cups Green Beans (Canned, fresh, or frozen); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Or use Monterey Jack); 1 cup Sour Cream (Can substitute with Greek yogurt); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Extra sour cream can substitute); 1 tablespoon Dried Minced Onion (Fresh needs sautéing first); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper

Last Tuesday, I found myself facing an all-too-common scenario: the clock was ticking, and my dinner plans were non-existent. Enter the Easy Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole, a delightful dish that transformed my chaotic evening into a cozy evening at the dinner table. This comforting one-dish meal is packed with hearty ground beef, tender green beans, and creamy goodness that feels like a warm hug. Not only does it come together quickly—making it perfect for busy weeknights—but it’s also incredibly flexible, allowing you to swap in whatever ingredients you have on hand. Best of all, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will adore. Who wouldn’t want a dinner that brings everyone to the table? Ready to dive into a dish that makes weeknight cooking a joy?

Why is this casserole so irresistible?

Comforting, heartwarming dish: This Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines familiar flavors everyone loves. Quick and easy: Perfect for those busy weeknights, it requires minimal prep and cooking time, making dinner a breeze. Versatile swaps: Feeling creative? You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have, like using ground turkey or adding different vegetables. One-dish wonder: No need to worry about cooking multiple sides; this casserole has it all, from protein to veggies. Crowd-pleaser: With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table, satisfying even the pickiest eaters. Don’t forget to check out our Ground Beef Enchiladas for another quick, family-friendly option!

Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole
• Ground Beef – Opt for 80/20 for juicy flavor; leaner beef may be drier.
• Medium Potatoes – Provide a hearty base; boil until just fork-tender to maintain texture.
• Green Beans – Use canned for ease; fresh or frozen add a crisp, vibrant touch.
• Cheddar Cheese – A creamy must-have; swap with Monterey Jack for a tasty twist.
• Sour Cream – Adds tanginess; Greek yogurt works as a lower-calorie substitute.
• Mayonnaise – Creates a rich, creamy texture; extra sour cream or Greek yogurt can replace it.
• Dried Minced Onion – Enhances flavor; fresh onions need sautéing first for best results.
• Salt, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Black Pepper – Essential spices that elevate flavor blends.

This Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole comes together with these simple yet satisfying ingredients, promising a delicious dinner the whole family will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole

Step 1: Boil and Prepare Potatoes
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add medium potatoes and cook them for 10–15 minutes until they are just fork-tender. Be careful not to overcook them! Once cooked, drain the potatoes, let them cool slightly, then peel and cube them into bite-sized pieces. This step will lay a hearty foundation for your Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, melt a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, seasoning it with salt and pepper, and cook for about 7–10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and cooked through. Make sure to drain any excess grease. This flavorful beef will bring richness to your casserole.

Step 3: Prepare the Green Beans
If using fresh green beans, steam or boil them for about 5–7 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. If using canned green beans, simply drain them. Incorporating green beans adds a delightful pop of color and nutrition to your Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole, making it a well-rounded dish.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, dried minced onion, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well blended. This creamy mixture will envelop all the ingredients in your casserole, adding the zest and richness that everyone loves.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Gently fold in the cooked ground beef, cubed potatoes, and prepared green beans into the creamy mixture. Be careful not to overmix as you want to maintain the texture of the potatoes and beans. This step creates a cohesive filling for your Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor and comfort.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spoon the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling. This slow baking allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Golden Finish
Remove the foil from the pan during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the top to turn golden and slightly crispy. Keep an eye on it to achieve the perfect color. This step adds an appetizing finish to your Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole, making it visually appealing for your dinner table.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This brief resting period helps the casserole set, making it easier to serve. Gather everyone around, and enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to make any weeknight feel special!

Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole Variations

Feel free to make this comforting dish your own with a few creative twists and swaps!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream for a creamy texture without dairy. Pair it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor!
If you’re looking for a plant-based option, this swap will keep your casserole rich and satisfying.
Vegetable Boost: Add in frozen peas or corn for a splash of color and extra nutrition.
Mix veggies right into your casserole for a heartier experience that not only tastes good but feels good.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a warming touch.
This simple addition can transform your dish from comfort to bold, making it a cozy yet exciting meal.
Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take on this classic.
Not only will the flavor change, but the texture will also remain hearty and delicious, keeping your meal nutritious.
Crunchy Topping: Top with crushed crackers, potato chips, or breadcrumbs before the last baking phase.
This finishing touch will add delightful crunch and contrast against the creamy casserole underneath.
Herbed Flavor: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
These fragrant additions can elevate your dish, bringing a fresh garden taste right to your table.
Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for a smoky gouda or pepper jack for extra flavor.
Mixing it up with different cheeses can create an entirely new flavor profile that surprises your family.
Savory Alternatives: Swap gold potatoes for sweet potatoes for a nutty, sweet flavor.
Sweet potatoes not only change the taste but also add fiber and nutrients, making your dish even healthier.

Want to explore more delicious ground beef recipes? Don’t miss trying our Cheesy Ground Beef or the satisfying Eggplant Casserole Savory. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole options are simple and perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps up to mixing all the ingredients. Once mixed, spoon the mixture into your 9×13 inch baking pan, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. To maintain the quality and prevent moisture loss, also line the pan with parchment paper before adding the filling. When ready to bake, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 50-55 minutes (adding an extra 5-10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge) until bubbly and golden. With this make-ahead method, you’ll enjoy a cozy meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Easy Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole

A cozy dinner isn’t complete without the perfect sidekick to your hearty casserole.

Warm Dinner Rolls: These fluffy rolls are ideal for soaking up the delicious creamy sauce of the casserole, adding a delightful carb element to your meal.
Simple Side Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole, bringing a vibrant crunch to the table.
Cornbread Muffins: Their slightly sweet flavor and light texture offer a comforting contrast to the savory casserole, making them a delightful companion.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crispy and aromatic, these breadsticks provide an irresistible dipping option, letting you savor every last bit of that creamy goodness.
Roasted Vegetables: Flavorful roasted carrots and broccoli add a touch of sweetness and extra nutrients, making your meal more wholesome and colorful.
Apple Crisp for Dessert: Finish on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp; its cinnamon and sugar will be a perfect contrast to the savory casserole, leaving everyone delighted.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing beverages like iced tea or a zesty lemonade can cut through the richness of the dish and enhance the overall dining experience.

Expert Tips for Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole

Drain the Beef Well: Ensure you drain the ground beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy casserole that can overshadow those lovely flavors.
Perfect Potato Texture: Avoid overcooking potatoes; they should be just fork-tender. This guarantees a firm texture that holds up in the casserole.
Season While Cooking: Always season the ground beef while it cooks for optimal flavor. Toss in some salt and pepper right at the beginning for a tasty base.
Gentle Mixing Needed: When combining ingredients, be gentle to maintain the textures of the potatoes and beans. Overmixing can lead to a mushy casserole.
Moisture Check: If the mixture appears dry, add a splash of milk or broth. This helps maintain a creamy consistency in your Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole.

Storage Tips for Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps your delicious Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole fresh and ready to enjoy!

Freezer: Freeze the casserole for up to 3 months, either before baking or after it’s been cooked. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat from the fridge, warm at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, covered with foil. From frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake until heated through.

Serving Freshness: For the best texture, enjoy the casserole within a few days of making, but freezing is a great option for meal prep!

Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef should I use for this casserole?
Select ground beef with a fat content between 80/20 to 85/15 for optimal flavor and juiciness. If you opt for leaner beef, around 90/10, be aware that the texture may become drier. I often recommend using grass-fed beef for an even richer taste!

How should I store leftover Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure the casserole has cooled to room temperature before sealing it up. This way, you can savor any remaining portions throughout the week without losing quality!

Can I freeze Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. For best results, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it either before baking or after it’s cooked; just remember to label with the date!

What should I do if my casserole turns out too dry?
If your casserole seems dry after baking, there are a couple of fixes. First, when mixing, ensure you’re incorporating enough creamy ingredients—like sour cream and mayonnaise. You can also add a splash of broth or milk to the mixture if it looks parched before baking. If it’s already baked and still dry, try serving it with a drizzle of gravy or warm broth on top to enhance moisture.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian or accommodate specific dietary needs?
Certainly! For a vegetarian version, swap out the ground beef for a plant-based alternative like lentils or crumbled tofu. Just remember to season well to retain flavor. If you’re concerned about allergies, be sure to check labels for dairy-free products if needed. Also, using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream is a great way to reduce calories while maintaining a tasty profile.

How do I know when the casserole is cooked properly?
You’ll know your Ground Beef Green Bean Casserole is done when it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown. Baking it covered helps it stay moist, while the last 10 minutes uncovered gives it that perfect crispy finish. A quick tip: use a knife to check if the center is heated through; if it comes out hot to the touch, you’re all set!