Easy Beans and Weens Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 package of hot dogs, chopped
- 1 large can (28 oz) of BBQ baked beans (or your preferred side dish beans)
- 1 box of cornbread mix (plus required ingredients according to package directions)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños for some heat
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a 9×13 casserole dish, combine the chopped hot dogs and the entire can of BBQ baked beans. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can customize the beans with your own mixture.
- If desired, add in any optional ingredients like shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños. Mix everything well in the casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to the package instructions. Typically, you’ll need to combine the mix with water, milk, or eggs. Adjust the quantities as directed.
- Pour the prepared cornbread batter evenly over the hot dog and bean mixture in the casserole dish. Spread it out to cover the surface.
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Feel free to add extra toppings like sour cream, green onions, or more cheese based on your preferences.
- Serve hot, and enjoy your budget-friendly, quick, and tasty Beans and Weens Casserole!
This versatile dish allows you to get creative with the ingredients you have on hand, making it a go-to option for a simple and satisfying meal.
Here are some tips to make the Easy Beans and Weens Casserole even more delicious:
- Choose Quality Ingredients:
- Opt for good quality hot dogs and BBQ baked beans to enhance the overall flavor of the casserole.
- Customize Your Bean Mixture:
- Experiment with different types of beans or create your own bean mixture with a combination of kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans. You can also add a touch of molasses or brown sugar for sweetness.
- Add Extra Vegetables:
- Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding diced onions, bell peppers, or any other favorite veggies to the hot dog and bean mixture.
- Spice it Up:
- If you enjoy some heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the bean mixture.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight:
- For a cheesy twist, mix in shredded cheddar or your favorite cheese into the casserole, or sprinkle it on top before baking.
- Cornbread Variations:
- Experiment with different cornbread mixes or add corn kernels to the batter for added texture and sweetness.
- Preheat the Casserole Dish:
- To ensure even cooking, preheat the casserole dish before adding the hot dog and bean mixture. This helps in achieving a nice sear on the bottom.
- Check Cornbread Doneness:
- Use a toothpick or knife to check the doneness of the cornbread. It should come out clean when inserted into the center.
- Serve with Toppings:
- Customize each serving with toppings like sour cream, sliced green onions, or fresh cilantro for added freshness and flavor.
- Make it a Meal:
- Consider serving the casserole with a side salad, coleslaw, or a dollop of guacamole to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
- Leftover Creativity:
- If you have leftovers, consider reheating the casserole in the oven or microwave. You can also use it as a filling for tacos or burritos.
- Double the Batch:
- Make a larger batch and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient future meals.
Remember, the beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility, so feel free to tailor it to your taste preferences and ingredient availability
