Classic Hamburger Casserole
A comforting layered casserole combining seasoned ground beef, green beans, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted cheese—perfect for family dinners and satisfying cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium skillet, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
- Stir in green beans, condensed tomato soup, water, seasoned salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine mashed potatoes and half of the Durkee onions.
- Spoon the mashed potato mixture in mounds around the edge of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 25 minutes or until heated through.
- Top the potatoes with shredded Cheddar cheese and remaining Durkee onions.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, try using ground turkey or a mix of ground beef and sausage. You can substitute the frozen green beans with other vegetables like corn or peas if desired. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a dollop of sour cream to the mashed potatoes. This dish is similar to classic American recipes like Judy'S Applesauce Meatballs, making it a comforting family favorite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with Bar-B-Que sauce on the side for those who enjoy a tangy kick. You can also top it with sliced jalapeños or serve alongside roasted vegetables for added nutrition and color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave until warm, or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out. This ensures the flavors meld together beautifully upon reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Classic Hamburger Casserole contains roughly 529 calories, with 25g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value), protein (49% of the Daily Value), and calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1708mg per serving (74% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking as directed for best results.
What can I use instead of condensed tomato soup?
If you don't have condensed tomato soup, you can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts tomato sauce and water, adding a pinch of sugar and spices like oregano or basil to mimic the flavor. This will maintain the dish's characteristic taste while using available ingredients.
Can I freeze the hamburger casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).