If you’re craving a comforting meal that brings together bold flavors and a luscious creamy texture, you’re going to fall in love with this Creamy Ground Beef and Green Bean Casserole with Cheddar and Mozzarella Recipe. It’s packed with savory browned ground beef, tender green beans, and a heavenly blend of cheeses that melt perfectly on top, creating a casserole that’s warm, satisfying, and downright irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or cozy night in, this dish celebrates simple ingredients elevated into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze with this recipe. Each one plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, from the hearty ground beef to the creamy cheeses that give this casserole its dreamy texture and gorgeous golden topping.
- 2 lbs ground beef: The rich, savory base that brings the dish heartiness and depth.
- 6 oz cream cheese: Adds a velvety creaminess that binds all the flavors together beautifully.
- 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the meaty flavor while keeping the casserole perfectly moist.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Gives that indulgent, creamy texture that makes this casserole so comforting.
- 4 tsp Bragg’s Aminos (or soy sauce): A punch of umami that balances the richness with a subtle savory twist.
- 2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses warm, aromatic notes without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Adds mild sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
- 4 cans green beans, drained: A fresh, tender crunch that lightens up the richness and adds color.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharpness and a vibrant golden crust when baked.
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts gooey and stretchy for the ultimate cheese pull experience.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the delicious flavors harmoniously.
- 1 tsp pepper: Adds a subtle kick of spice to round out the taste.
How to Make Creamy Ground Beef and Green Bean Casserole with Cheddar and Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef to Perfection
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink and has a lovely caramelized color. This step is essential because it builds the deep meaty flavor that’s the heart of this casserole. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the final dish from becoming too greasy.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce
Next, add the cream cheese, beef broth, heavy whipping cream, Bragg’s Aminos, garlic powder, and onion powder to the skillet with your beef. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is when the magic happens— the cream cheese melts into the broth and cream, creating a silky, flavorful sauce that coats every bite. Let the sauce cook until smooth and slightly thickened, approximately a few minutes.
Step 3: Mix in the Green Beans
Once your sauce is beautifully creamy, stir in the drained green beans. These add a wonderful contrast with their fresh, slightly crisp texture and vibrant green color, balancing the richness of the beef and cheese. Mix everything well to evenly distribute those comforting flavors throughout the casserole.
Step 4: Assemble Your Casserole
Grease your casserole dish lightly to prevent sticking and pour in the beef and green bean mixture. Spread it out evenly for consistent cooking. Then top the entire dish with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, which will melt and brown into a gorgeous, bubbly crust once baked. This cheese topping isn’t just for looks — it adds a luscious, savory finish that makes the dish absolutely crave-worthy.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Place your casserole in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re aiming for a bubbly, golden cheese topper with hints of crispy edges. When it’s done, it will smell incredible and look invitingly perfect for serving. Don’t rush this part—baking melds the flavors and textures, elevating the dish from good to unforgettable.
How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef and Green Bean Casserole with Cheddar and Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a pop of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives on top not only adds beautiful color but also a bright fresh flavor contrast to the rich casserole. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give it a gentle heat boost if you love things a little spicy. For a touch of extra creaminess, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a side of tangy pickles.
Side Dishes
Because this casserole is rich and filling, lighter, refreshing sides like a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or steamed roasted vegetables work beautifully to balance the plate. Garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate, making every bite even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to dress it up for guests or a special occasion, try serving individual portions in ramekins topped with a fresh herb sprig. Alternatively, layering the casserole in a clear glass baking dish for serving lets everyone admire those gorgeous green beans and cheeses before digging in. You could also add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions on top for a flavor upgrade that feels gourmet but stays simple.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Ground Beef and Green Bean Casserole with Cheddar and Mozzarella Recipe is just as good the next day, if not better! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will have time to meld even more, making your next meal effortlessly delicious.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for a future feast, it freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled casserole into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge to ensure even reheating without sogginess.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until hot throughout. For best results, warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to refresh that bubbling cheese topping and crisp edges, bringing back its freshly baked charm.
FAQs
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans add a wonderful crunch and vibrant flavor. Just blanch or steam them until tender before mixing them into the casserole to ensure perfect texture.
What if I don’t have Bragg’s Aminos or soy sauce?
You can substitute with a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of salt to add a savory depth, but Bragg’s Aminos lend a unique umami note that’s worth trying if you can find it.
Can I make this casserole vegan or vegetarian?
This recipe centers on ground beef and dairy, but to adapt it, try using plant-based ground meat substitutes and vegan cream cheese with non-dairy milk alternatives, then adjust the seasonings to your taste.
Is it possible to reduce the fat content?
For a lighter version, use lean ground beef and substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream. Keep in mind this may affect the richness and creaminess that make the casserole so comforting.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time before baking?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Creamy Ground Beef and Green Bean Casserole with Cheddar and Mozzarella Recipe. It feels like a big warm hug on a plate, combining familiar ingredients into a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or treating yourself to a comforting dinner, this casserole delivers every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your new go-to comfort food classic!
Print
Creamy Ground Beef and Green Bean Casserole with Cheddar and Mozzarella Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Ground Beef Casserole combines tender ground beef with creamy cheeses, green beans, and savory seasonings for a comforting, easy-to-make baked dish perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 6 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings and Condiments
- 4 tsp Bragg’s Aminos (or soy sauce)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
Vegetables
- 4 cans green beans, drained
Instructions
- Preheat and Brown Beef: Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Make Creamy Sauce: Add the cream cheese, beef broth, heavy whipping cream, Bragg’s Aminos (or soy sauce), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the browned beef. Stir and simmer the mixture over medium heat until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and well combined.
- Add Green Beans: Stir in the drained green beans thoroughly to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the creamy beef sauce.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the beef and green bean mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading evenly. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Bake until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, indicating that the casserole is heated through and ready to serve.
Notes
- You can substitute Bragg’s Aminos with soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Drain the green beans thoroughly to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheeses, and substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just increase baking time by a few minutes if baking cold.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or microwave.
