Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole
Description:
This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, sweet and savory baked beans, and a melty cheddar cheese topping. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck, this casserole is quick to prepare and packs a punch with its delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s an easy-to-make meal that will satisfy even the hungriest of appetites!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can (28 oz) baked beans
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is tender (about 7-10 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish (9×13-inch works well) and spread it out evenly.
- Top the casserole with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty, delicious meal!
Variations:
- Spicy Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix for a spicy kick.
- BBQ Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole: Swap the ketchup for BBQ sauce to give the casserole a smoky flavor.
- Cheesy Veggie Casserole: Add vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or peas for extra nutrition and color.
- Bacon-Topped Casserole: Crumble crispy bacon over the top before baking for added crunch and flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based ground meat to make it vegetarian-friendly.
- Sweet and Savory Twist: Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for a subtle sweetness alongside the savory flavors.
Serving Tips:
- Serve with cornbread: This casserole pairs wonderfully with cornbread for a true comfort-food experience.
- Top with sour cream: Add a dollop of sour cream to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Serve with a green salad: A simple side salad with fresh greens will provide a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Pair with pickles: Serve with a side of dill pickles or pickled vegetables for an added crunch and tang.
20 FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):
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Can I use turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
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Can I use vegetarian baked beans? Absolutely! You can use vegetarian or vegan baked beans for a plant-based version.
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Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
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Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.
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What kind of beans should I use? Use standard baked beans in tomato sauce for the best flavor. You can also use other canned beans if you prefer.
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Can I use fresh onion instead of chopped onion? Yes, fresh chopped onions work perfectly in this recipe. You could also use onion powder if you don’t have fresh onions.
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How do I know when the casserole is done? The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
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Can I use a different cheese? Yes, you can use any cheese you like. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack will also work well.
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Can I add more sugar to make it sweeter? Yes, if you prefer a sweeter casserole, you can add a bit more brown sugar to taste.
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Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Yes, you can make this casserole in a slow cooker. Cook the beef and onion on the stovetop, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours.
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Can I add garlic to the recipe? Yes, you can add minced garlic to the beef and onion mixture for extra flavor.
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Can I use ground pork instead of beef? Yes, ground pork will work as a substitute for beef, giving the dish a slightly different flavor.
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Can I make this casserole spicier? Yes, you can add chili powder, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to spice up the dish.
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Can I serve this casserole with rice? Yes, this casserole would pair nicely with a side of rice for a fuller meal.
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Can I add other vegetables to the casserole? Yes, you can add diced bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
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How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Can I use a smaller casserole dish? Yes, you can use a smaller dish, but you may need to adjust the cooking time based on the depth of the casserole.
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Can I use a different type of mustard? Yes, you can use Dijon, yellow, or spicy brown mustard depending on your flavor preference.
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Is this casserole gluten-free? Yes, the recipe is gluten-free, as long as you make sure the baked beans and ketchup you use are gluten-free.
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Can I make this casserole in individual portions? Yes, you can make individual portions in small ramekins and bake them for 20-25 minutes.
20 Best Tips to Make the Best Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole:
- Brown the beef well for maximum flavor before adding the onions.
- Drain excess fat from the beef to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Use quality baked beans—they’re the base of the flavor, so pick a good brand or make your own!
- Add a bit of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone.
- Adjust sweetness to your taste by adding more or less brown sugar.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow it to set.
- Layer the cheese: Add some cheese during cooking and a little more at the end for extra cheesy goodness.
- Mix up the mustard: Try a combination of yellow and Dijon mustard for depth of flavor.
- Add more vegetables: Bell peppers, corn, and carrots can be added for extra texture.
- Season well with salt and pepper—taste as you go to ensure perfect seasoning.
- Use a non-stick casserole dish to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
- Try a crispy topping: Add crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture.
- Sprinkle on some fresh herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme can add a burst of color and freshness.
- Make it a meal: Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or cornbread to round out the dish.
- Use a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
- Cover with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking to keep the casserole moist, then uncover to allow the cheese to melt.
- Add a dash of hot sauce if you want a bit of extra heat.
- Consider a slow-cooked version by making the casserole in a slow cooker for tender beef and beans.
- Top with crispy fried onions for added crunch and flavor.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon to brighten up the flavors before serving.
Enjoy your delicious, comforting Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole! It’s the perfect dish for family dinners or casual gatherings.
