Sure! Here’s a full write-up for your Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole recipe, organized just as you asked:
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty casserole to bring comfort to the table, and this baked beans and ground beef casserole delivers just that.
Packed with protein, flavor, and just the right touch of sweetness, it’s the kind of dish that satisfies cravings and fills the kitchen with delicious aromas.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 medium green bell pepper, diced
1 cup ketchup
1 tsp mustard
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
2 (15 oz) cans pork and beans (do not drain)
salt & black pepper, to taste
1 TBS butter
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven warms up, place a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. This creates a flavorful base for sautéing your vegetables.
Add the diced yellow onion and green bell pepper to the melted butter and cook until softened and fragrant. This should take about five minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent browning.
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook until the beef is browned evenly.
breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully cooked, carefully drain off any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.
Stir in the ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until everything is well combined and the beef is coated with the sauce. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to blend the flavors.
Pour in the pork and beans directly from the cans, liquid and all. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients without breaking down the beans too much.
Taste the mixture and season with salt and black pepper as desired. Spoon the entire mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the top is slightly caramelized. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
How to Make
Start with a good base: melting butter and sautéing onions and bell peppers brings out a rich flavor that sets the tone for the dish. This first step is essential for layering taste.
Cooking the ground beef thoroughly is important not just for safety, but also to build that savory, meaty base. Make sure it’s fully browned before moving on.
The sauce made with ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire is where the magic happens. It delivers that perfect balance between tangy and sweet that baked beans are known for.
Pork and beans are the soul of this casserole. Using them straight from the can keeps the dish easy while still rich and satisfying. The natural juices help bind everything together.
Mixing everything gently is key. You don’t want to mash the beans or over-stir the beef. Just enough to distribute everything evenly before transferring to the baking dish.
Baking the casserole lets the flavors meld and intensify. It also gives that slightly sticky, caramelized finish on top that’s so comforting and delicious.
Letting the casserole rest a few minutes before serving gives it time to firm up slightly and makes it easier to dish out in satisfying spoonfuls.
Variations
You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option. It still delivers plenty of flavor with a lighter feel.
Add some shredded cheese to the top during the last ten minutes of baking for a melty, golden topping that adds richness and texture.
Spice things up with a dash of hot sauce, chili powder, or diced jalapeños for a version with a kick. The sweet beans pair wonderfully with a bit of heat.
For a smoky twist, stir in a bit of liquid smoke or use smoked paprika in the seasoning mix. It complements the Worcestershire sauce beautifully.
Mix in cooked bacon bits or sausage with the beef to deepen the meaty flavor and add a fun variation to the texture.
If you like a crunchy topping, consider adding a layer of crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or even crispy fried onions before baking.
To make it a one-dish meal, stir in cooked rice or small pasta before baking. It stretches the recipe and makes it even more filling.
Tips
Use lean ground beef if you want to avoid excess grease, but still drain it after browning for the best texture and taste.
Dice the vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate and blend smoothly into the casserole.
Taste and adjust the seasoning before baking. Since canned beans are already seasoned, you may not need much salt.
Let the casserole rest before serving. It helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes it easier to portion.
Make it ahead of time by preparing the entire mixture, covering it, and refrigerating. Just bake when ready to serve.
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for a few days and reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven.
Freeze portions for quick future meals. Just let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and store for up to three months.
Conclusion
Baked beans and ground beef casserole is one of those humble, homey dishes that never goes out of style. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and packed with flavor that feels like a hug in every bite. Whether you serve it on a busy weeknight or share it with friends at a gathering, it’s bound to be a favorite.
Simple ingredients and minimal effort come together in a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and comforting. It’s a go-to recipe when you want something familiar, filling, and deliciously nostalgic.
Let me know if you want this turned into a printable recipe card or if you’d like a version with metric measurements!