Savory Baked Beans Beef Casserole Recipe

Looking for the perfect hearty and comforting meal for those busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings? Look no further than the beloved Baked Beans Ground Beef Casserole. This classic southern-inspired dish is a true crowd-pleaser, combining the savory goodness of ground beef with the smoky sweetness of pork and beans, all brought together with a touch of brown sugar and tangy ketchup.

I first discovered this Baked Beans Ground Beef Casserole for a game day get-together, and it was an instant hit! The blend of flavors and the hearty aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes make it a dish that brings everyone together around the table. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or simply craving some comfort food, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Feel free to customize this casserole to suit your taste preferences – swap the ground beef for turkey, add a hint of smokiness with some paprika, or top it with crispy bacon for an extra indulgent touch. Serve it warm with a side of cornbread, a fresh salad, or just as is for a satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for more. Baked Beans Ground Beef Casserole is a timeless recipe that captures the essence of home-cooked goodness in every bite.

Quick Benefits

• Ultimate comfort food: Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, this casserole offers a hearty and satisfying meal that brings a classic southern flavor to the table.
• Versatile ingredients: Easily customizable with substitutions like ground turkey or different bell peppers, making it adaptable to personal preferences and pantry staples.
• Convenient leftovers: Stores well in the fridge for up to four days or freezer for longer, making it a great option for meal prep or quick leftovers.
• Make-ahead option: Assembly ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake, allowing for easy meal planning and preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Baked Beans Beef Casserole Recipe Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: This casserole is the perfect choice for busy weeknights or potlucks, offering the ultimate comfort with its hearty and flavorful ingredients.
• Classic Southern Flavor: The smoky hint of pork and beans combined with the sweet tang of brown sugar and ketchup brings a classic southern flavor that will leave you wanting more.
• Family Favorite: A go-to recipe for relaxed family weekends, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table.
• Aromatic Kitchen: The aroma of onions and Worcestershire sauce filling the kitchen will transport you to cozy winter nights spent with loved ones around the dinner table.
• Convenient Leftovers: Store leftovers easily for up to four days in the fridge or freeze individual portions for longer storage, making it a great make-ahead meal option.
• Customizable: Easily customize the recipe by substituting ingredients like bell peppers or meat choice to suit your taste preferences.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve this casserole with cornbread, a green salad, or even potato chips for a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Classic Comfort Food: This casserole brings together classic pantry staples into a nourishing and satisfying meal that will become a staple at your table.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready, making it a convenient option for busy days or entertaining guests.
• Lighter Alternative: Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter casserole without compromising on the hearty and delicious results.

Ingredients for Savory Baked Beans Beef Casserole Recipe

Main

• 450 grams ground beef
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 110 grams brown sugar, packed
• 2 cans (425 grams each) pork and beans, undrained
• 240 millilitres ketchup
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
• Salt, to taste

For greasing

• 15 grams butter

Pro Tips for Savory Baked Beans Beef Casserole Recipe

Pro tip 1: Enhance the flavor profile by adding a touch of smoked paprika or diced bacon for an extra smoky taste before baking the casserole. This will complement the southern flavors and add depth to the dish.

Pro tip 2: For a spicier kick, include chopped jalapenos or poblanos along with the bell pepper when cooking. This will give the casserole an extra level of heat that can elevate the overall taste and appeal to those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.

Pro tip 3: Make meal prep easier by assembling the casserole ahead of time, refrigerating it, and baking it when ready. Just remember to adjust the baking time if the dish has been chilled. This way, you can enjoy a delicious and hearty meal without the last-minute rush.

How to Make Savory Baked Beans Beef Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat oven to 175°C and grease a 23 x 33 centimetre baking dish with butter.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Cook ground beef in a deep skillet over medium heat until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are softened, then drain and discard any excess fat.

Step 4: Develop Sauce

Combine ketchup with mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Mix well and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 5: Combine Beans

Add pork and beans with their liquid to the skillet. Gently stir to combine without smashing the beans.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spread evenly, and cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.

Storage Tips

Once you have enjoyed the delicious Baked Beans Ground Beef Casserole, make sure to store any leftovers properly to maintain their freshness. After the casserole has cooled, transfer the remaining portion to airtight containers. Store these containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to store the casserole for a longer period, consider freezing individual portions. When ready to enjoy the frozen portions, remember to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results. Ensure to cover the dish tightly while reheating to prevent the beans from drying out in the oven.

The Baked Beans Ground Beef Casserole is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. If you are missing green bell peppers, feel free to substitute with diced red bell peppers for a touch of sweetness or poblano peppers for a mild kick. For a lighter version of this casserole, you can swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. To enhance the smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika to the dish or topping it with diced bacon before baking. This comforting casserole is perfect as a main dish served with cornbread, a crisp green salad, or even some potato chips. Sprinkle some shredded cheddar during the last ten minutes of baking or garnish with chopped scallions for a fresh finish. Whether enjoyed at a family dinner or shared at potlucks, this casserole is sure to satisfy with its hearty and wholesome flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have green bell peppers on hand, feel free to use red bell peppers for a slightly sweeter taste or poblano peppers for a milder kick in your casserole. These alternatives can add a different flavor profile to the dish while still maintaining its heartiness.

For a lighter version of this casserole, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. This swap can reduce the overall fat content while still providing a satisfying and flavorful meal. You can also enhance the smoky flavor by incorporating smoked paprika into the dish or sprinkling diced bacon on top before baking.

To make this casserole ahead of time, assemble it, refrigerate, and bake when you’re ready to serve. Just remember to adjust the baking time if the dish has been chilled. This make-ahead option can be especially convenient for busy weeknights or when preparing for a gathering.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try topping individual servings of the Baked Beans Ground Beef Casserole with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro. The cool creaminess of the sour cream balances out the rich flavors of the casserole, while the cilantro adds a pop of freshness.

Another fun idea is to serve the casserole in individual mini cast iron skillets or ramekins for a charming presentation. This not only makes for a visually appealing dish but also allows each person to have their portion without the need for scooping from a larger casserole dish. Guests will love having their mini casseroles personalized just for them!

FAQs for Savory Baked Beans Beef Casserole Recipe

Can I substitute pork and beans with other types of beans?

Yes, you can substitute pork and beans with other canned beans like navy or pinto for a similar texture and taste.

How can I add extra heat to the casserole?

Add chopped jalapeno or poblano along with the bell pepper to give the casserole an extra kick of heat.

Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready. Increase baking time if chilled.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs well with cornbread, a green salad, or classic coleslaw for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Baked Beans Ground Beef Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of tradition and togetherness on a plate. The blend of flavors and simplicity of this dish make it a winner for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply craving some hearty comfort food, this casserole is sure to hit the spot.

So, next time you’re looking for a meal that’s easy to make, satisfying, and loved by all, remember the timeless appeal of Baked Beans Ground Beef Casserole. Let its savory aroma fill your kitchen and its rich flavors warm your heart. Enjoy the process of creating this dish, and savor every bite of nostalgia and deliciousness it brings to your table.