Why Make This Recipe

Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is an easy and tasty meal that brings comfort to the dinner table. This dish combines hearty ingredients like ground beef and beans, making it perfect for families. It’s filling, simple to prepare, and is sure to please everyone. You can also enjoy it as leftovers, which makes it practical for busy weeknights.

How to Make Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 can (16 oz) pork and beans
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Be sure to drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the pork and beans, barbecue sauce, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything well.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Bake without covering in the preheated oven until bubbly and the cheese is melted. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole

Serve the casserole hot right out of the oven. It pairs great with a side of cornbread, a fresh garden salad, or some steamed vegetables. This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but feel free to add your favorite side dishes to create a larger meal.

How to Store Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole

1. For an extra kick, add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.
2. You can use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter version.
3. Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist on flavor.

Variation

Feel free to substitute the pork and beans with other types of beans, such as navy beans or black beans, if you prefer. You can also add chopped bell peppers or carrots for some extra veggies!

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Bake it just before you’re ready to serve.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe is not gluten-free due to the barbecue sauce and ketchup. Check for gluten-free brands if needed.

3. Can I use canned beans instead of pork and beans?
Definitely! Just make sure to season them a bit more, as canned beans without extra flavor might be bland.