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
Scale
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.
