Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that’ll satisfy your hunger and warm your soul, then look no further than this Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole. It’s the kind of dish that brings all the best flavors together in one pan—tender ground beef, sweet and savory baked beans, and just the right mix of seasonings, all baked to perfection. The beauty of this casserole is that it’s simple to make, but it feels like you’re indulging in something extra special. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly weeknight dinner, a dish to take to a potluck, or just something cozy to enjoy on a lazy weekend, this casserole will not disappoint. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole

• Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein and rich flavors, this casserole is perfect for a satisfying meal.
• Budget-Friendly: With simple, affordable ingredients, this dish won’t break the bank, but it still delivers on taste.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal effort, easy cleanup—everything bakes together in one casserole dish!
• Crowd-Pleasing: It’s always a hit at family dinners, parties, and potlucks. Who doesn’t love a hearty casserole?
• Versatile: You can customize the flavor by adding extra ingredients like onions, bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of cheese on top!

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base of the dish that gives it that savory, meaty flavor.
• 2 cans (15 oz each) baked beans: The star of the show, bringing that perfect balance of sweetness and flavor.
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce: Adds a smoky, tangy kick to the casserole.
• 1/2 cup ketchup: A little sweetness to balance out the savory flavors.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Gives an umami richness that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: For a subtle but essential savory touch.
• 1 tsp onion powder: Adds depth to the flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To season and bring all the ingredients together.

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top and adds a creamy finish.
• 1/4 cup crispy fried onions (optional): For a crunchy topping that adds a bit of texture and extra flavor.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and return the beef to the pan.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the baked beans, barbecue sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the beef and bean mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly to make sure it bakes uniformly.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 minutes to heat everything through and let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

After 20 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Optional Crunch

If you’re adding crispy fried onions, sprinkle them on top of the casserole during the last 2 minutes of baking to get them nice and crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is golden and bubbly, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This dish is perfect on its own, or you can serve it with a simple side salad or cornbread.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 900mg
Total Carbohydrate: 21g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 13g
Protein: 18g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole

• With Cornbread: This casserole is a match made in heaven with warm, buttery cornbread. It adds a sweet, fluffy contrast to the savory beans and beef.
• Side Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the rich and hearty casserole.
• With Garlic Bread: For an extra bit of indulgence, serve this casserole with some garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
• Pickles or Jalapeños: If you want a little zing, serve the casserole with pickles or jalapeños on the side.

Additional Tips

• Customize the Beans: If you want a twist, try using different varieties of beans, like black beans or kidney beans.
• Add Vegetables: You can toss in some bell peppers, onions, or even mushrooms to make the casserole even heartier and veggie-packed.
• Cheese Variety: Try using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor profile or to make the casserole extra cheesy.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to pop it in the oven.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this casserole without ground beef?
A1: Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian version.

Q2: Can I use homemade baked beans instead of canned?
A2: Absolutely! Homemade baked beans will work just as well. Just be sure to have about 30 oz of beans to match the two cans in the recipe.

Q3: Can I freeze this casserole?
A3: Yes! After baking, let the casserole cool completely, then cover and freeze. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes.

Q4: How can I make this casserole spicier?
A4: Add a teaspoon of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the bean mixture for a spicy kick.

Q5: Can I add bacon to this recipe?
A5: Yes! Crumbled bacon would be a great addition for an extra smoky flavor. You can either cook it and stir it in with the beef or sprinkle it on top before serving.

Q6: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A6: Of course! You can use mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend for a different cheesy experience.

Q7: Can I make this casserole in a smaller dish?
A7: If you’re making a smaller batch, just use a smaller casserole dish and adjust the cooking time accordingly. It will cook faster, so keep an eye on it.

Q8: How long does the casserole last in the fridge?
A8: This casserole will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.

Q9: Can I skip the cheese?
A9: You can absolutely skip the cheese if you prefer, or try a dairy-free cheese substitute if you’re looking for a non-dairy option.

Q10: Can I use a different sauce in place of the barbecue sauce?
A10: Yes! If you don’t have barbecue sauce, you can use a combination of tomato sauce, a bit of brown sugar, and a splash of vinegar for a similar tangy-sweet flavor.

Conclusion

This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is a crowd-pleasing, comfort food classic that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying to eat. It combines the rich, savory flavors of ground beef with the sweetness of baked beans, topped with melty cheese and crispy onions. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or taking it to a gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a cozy, delicious meal everyone will love!

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