Bean Hamburger Casserole - A Recipe

This recipe originally called for cooked soybeans, but I have substituted northern or navy beans - even kidney beans.  Use what you have on hand.  The reason it is called Bean Hamburger casserole is due to the fact that it contains more beans than meat. 

Bean Hamburger Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.  Saute in a large skillet:

2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
1/4 cup chopped green pepper, chopped (optional)
1/4 to 1/2 lb. hamburger

When the meat is brown, stir in:

1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
2 1/2 cups cooked beans (original recipe called for cooked soybeans)
1 1/4 cups tomato soup, tomato sauce or stewed tomatoes
1 beef bouillon cube, dissolved in 1 cup hot water
2 cups cooked rice

Heat and simmer a few minutes.  Place in a greased casserole and bake 45 minutes.  Remove from oven and top with 1/2 cup grated or sliced cheese.  Return to the oven just til cheese melts.

I have printed this as it appeared in the book "More with Less Cookbook," minus the soy beans.  As to the salt in this recipe, adjust it to your own needs.  However, opt for the seasoned salt as it adds flavor.  I also have added a little bit of chili powder to add a little more flavor.  You could add some chopped carrot or even a handful of frozen corn.  This is a delicious, cheap casserole you can turn to when money is tight.