A Comforting, Flavorful Dish for Any Occasion
Looking for a satisfying, easy-to-make meal that’s packed with flavor? This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is the perfect choice! Combining tender ground beef, sweet and tangy baked beans, and a blend of savory seasonings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s great for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple & Quick – Uses basic ingredients and comes together in under an hour.
Feeds a Crowd – Ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (or substitute ground turkey/chicken)
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 (28 oz) can baked beans (or substitute kidney/black beans)
¼ cup ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar (adjust to taste)
Salt & pepper to taste
(Optional add-ins: bell peppers, jalapeños, hot sauce, cheese, or bacon!)
Instructions:
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep & Brown the Beef
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add onion & garlic, cooking until soft (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Mix in Remaining Ingredients
Stir in baked beans, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
(Optional: Add extras like bell peppers, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce for heat.)
4. Bake to Perfection
Transfer mixture to a greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and lightly browned on top.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
Let cool slightly before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Expert Tips for the Best Casserole
For a Lighter Option: Use lean ground beef or swap in ground turkey/chicken.
Extra Flavor Boost: Add crispy bacon, smoked paprika, or a splash of BBQ sauce.
Make It Spicy: Stir in diced jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add extra beans, mushrooms, or lentils.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Pairings: Cornbread, garlic bread, or buttery biscuits.
Lighter Sides: A crisp green salad or steamed veggies.
Breakfast Twist: Top with a fried egg for a hearty morning meal.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate overnight—just add 5-10 extra minutes when baking.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I use plain canned beansYes, but add extra seasoning (like BBQ sauce or smoked paprika) for more flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting, fuss-free meal that’s perfect for busy days or casual get-togethers. Simple, hearty, and endlessly adaptable, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
