Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the rich flavor of baked beans with the savory depth of seasoned ground beef. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or gatherings, this one-dish wonder is easy to prepare and full of classic, crowd-pleasing flavor. The sweet and smoky sauce, paired with the satisfying texture of beef and beans, makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefbaked beans (canned or homemade)onionketchupmustardbrown sugarWorcestershire saucegarlic powderblack peppercheddar cheese (optional)topping options like crushed potato chips or bacon bits

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a casserole dish.

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease.

Stir in garlic powder, pepper, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.

Add the baked beans and mix until combined.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish.

Top with shredded cheddar cheese and any optional toppings you like.

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.

Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and spice.

Use barbecue sauce in place of ketchup for a smokier taste.

Top with cornbread batter before baking for a one-dish twist.

Try ground turkey or sausage as a variation to ground beef.

Include kidney beans or pinto beans for added variety.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warmed.For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it up to the baking step, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Can I use homemade baked beans?

Absolutely, just be sure they’re fully cooked and seasoned to taste.

Is this casserole very sweet?

The sweetness can be adjusted by varying the amount of brown sugar or using less-sweet baked beans.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, corn, peppers, or mushrooms make great additions.

What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with cornbread, coleslaw, or a green salad.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger casserole dish or two and extend baking time slightly.

Is it gluten-free?

Ensure your baked beans and condiments are gluten-free to make the dish safe for gluten sensitivities.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack are great choices too.

Can I skip the cheese?

Yes, the dish is flavorful even without cheese.

Is this kid-friendly?

Very! The sweet and savory flavors are usually a hit with children.

Conclusion

Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is a flavorful, satisfying meal that brings together pantry staples in a warm and hearty way. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a dish for a get-together, this casserole delivers comfort and taste in every bite. It’s sure to become a regular favorite on your dinner table.