If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, hearty dish that brings together rich flavors and a touch of nostalgia, this Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. The savory ground beef melds beautifully with sweet and tangy baked beans, all baked to bubbly perfection, creating a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple. It’s the kind of homemade casserole that warms your soul and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every element in this casserole plays an essential role in building its signature taste, texture, and vibrant color. From the hearty ground beef to the sweet brown sugar and tangy ketchup, each ingredient works harmoniously to create a show-stopping dish.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides the rich, savory foundation and a satisfying meaty texture.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down gently.
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced: Offers a fresh crunch and vibrant color contrast.
- 1 cup ketchup: Brings a tangy sweetness that ties the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness to balance the sweetness.
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed: Contributes warm, molasses notes that enhance the baked beans beautifully.
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Introduces a savory umami kick for depth.
- 2 (15 oz) cans vegetarian baked beans: The star of the dish, soft and flavorful, soaking up all the delicious seasonings.
- Salt & black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing everything together.
- 1 tablespoon butter: For greasing the baking dish, ensuring a perfect bake without sticking.
How to Make Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Use the butter to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, which will give your casserole a lovely golden edge and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a deep skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. This step locks in that savory beef flavor that’s essential to the casserole’s heartiness.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, stirring occasionally. This softens the veggies and releases their natural sweetness, which balances the casserole’s flavors. Drain off any excess grease to keep the dish neat and not greasy.
Step 4: Add the Sauces and Seasonings
Stir in the ketchup first, blending it evenly into the beef and veggies. Then add the teaspoon of mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and packed brown sugar. These ingredients bring sweet, tangy, and umami layers to the dish. Give it a taste and add salt and black pepper as you like—it’s your flavor palette, so don’t be shy!
Step 5: Mix in the Baked Beans
Pour the canned baked beans, juice and all, into the skillet and gently fold them into the mixture so every bite will be deliciously coated. This is the step where the casserole really starts to come together.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover with foil to lock in moisture, then bake for 45 minutes until bubbly and heated through. The aroma will make your kitchen smell like pure comfort.
Step 7: Let It Rest and Serve
Once baked, take the casserole out and let it cool just slightly so it sets a bit, making it easier to serve. This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe shines when it’s a little warm but not piping hot out of the oven.
How to Serve Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top right before serving to add a fresh, pop of brightness and a lovely color contrast to the rich casserole.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad or some steamed vegetables provide a great balance to the hearty casserole, keeping the meal light and refreshing. Alternatively, serve it alongside simple cornbread for a classic, cozy meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful approach, serve individual portions in ramekins and top each with a cheddar cheese crust under the broiler for a few minutes. You can also layer the mixture over mashed potatoes for a comforting twist on shepherd’s pie.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well. Just cool completely, cover tightly with foil or freezer-safe wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out and enjoy a meal that tastes just like fresh.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and will still absorb all the wonderful flavors of the sauce, though the texture may be slightly different—still delicious!
What if I want a spicier Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe?
Try swapping half of the green bell pepper for jalapeños or adding a few dashes of hot sauce when mixing the sauce ingredients to give it a pleasant kick.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and consider adding extra beans or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture, then follow the rest of the recipe as is.
Is it important to drain the excess grease?
Yes, draining excess grease after browning the beef ensures the casserole isn’t oily and helps the flavors come through cleanly and richly.
What can I serve this casserole with?
It pairs wonderfully with fresh green salads, steamed vegetables, or even over rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food magic. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes!
Print
Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for family dinners. Combining savory ground beef, sweet and tangy baked beans, and a blend of spices and vegetables, this casserole is baked to perfection for a warm and comforting meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 (15 oz) cans vegetarian baked beans (or regular baked beans without meat)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with 1 tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking.
- Brown the Beef: In a deep skillet over medium heat, cook the 1 lb of ground beef until it is fully browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks for even browning.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the vegetables soften, then drain any excess grease from the skillet to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in 1 cup ketchup first, combining it evenly with the beef and vegetables. Then add 1 teaspoon mustard, 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce, and ½ cup packed brown sugar. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Season: Taste the mixture and season with salt and black pepper as desired to balance the flavors.
- Incorporate Baked Beans: Stir in the two cans (15 oz each) of vegetarian baked beans, including their juice, mixing everything well to create a cohesive filling.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the combined beef and baked beans mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly for uniform cooking.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving. This step enhances the flavors and makes serving easier. Enjoy your comforting casserole!
Notes
- For added heat, substitute half of the green bell pepper with jalapeño or poblano peppers.
- You can use regular baked beans if vegetarian ones are not available; just ensure they do not already contain meat.
- Adjust seasoning at the end before baking to suit your taste preference.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
