If you are craving a comforting, hearty, and downright satisfying meal, the Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. This dish is the perfect cozy casserole that combines savory ground beef and sweet, smoky baked beans into one irresistible dish. The melty cheddar cheese on top adds a luscious finish that makes every bite a warm hug in food form. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck favorite, this casserole is a simple but flavor-packed meal that’s sure to bring smiles around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential for building layers of flavor, texture, and color in this casserole. Each component plays a crucial part in giving the dish its perfect balance of savory and sweet, with just the right hint of tanginess.
- 1 lb ground beef: provides a meaty, hearty base with rich protein and satisfying texture.
- 1 small onion, diced: adds a sweet and aromatic flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
- 2 cans (15 oz each) baked beans (or 3 cups homemade): bring a smoky sweetness and soft, comforting texture to the casserole.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: melts on top to create a golden, bubbly, cheesy crust.
- 1 cup ketchup: offers a sweet and tangy element that ties everything together.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: enhances the natural sweetness of the beans and ketchup with deep molasses notes.
- 1 teaspoon mustard (optional): adds a subtle tang that cuts through the richness for a well-rounded flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: deepens the savory notes with a hint of umami complexity.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: simply bring out and balance all the flavors.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder (optional): gives a gentle, aromatic punch to the overall dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking): ensures the beef and onions cook evenly without sticking.
How to Make Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the meat is thoroughly browned and no longer pink, roughly 5 to 7 minutes. When done, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy, setting a nice foundation for the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Next, toss the diced onion into your skillet with the cooked beef. Sauté them together until the onions turn soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if you’re using it. This step adds a layer of sweetness and aroma that’s essential for the casserole’s complexity.
Step 3: Mix in the Beans and Sauce
Now comes the magic moment where all the flavors start to blend. Stir in the baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard (if you like that extra tang), and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything well and let it heat through for about 3 to 5 minutes so each ingredient melds beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer this delicious mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly to create a cohesive layer. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. This cheese layer promises that perfect bubbling, golden crust once baked.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll want to watch for the cheese to melt fully and turn bubbly and lightly golden, signaling that the dish is ready to come out of the oven and onto your table.
Step 6: Serve
Once baked, let the casserole rest for a few minutes to set and cool just enough for easy serving. Then dish it out while hot to enjoy the fullest taste and comforting warmth of this brilliant Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe.
How to Serve Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top for a bright pop of color and fresh flavor that livens up the dish. A dollop of sour cream can also bring a creamy, tangy contrast that complements the casserole beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs effortlessly with simple sides like a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob are perfect companions that keep the comfort food vibes strong.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve it in individual ramekins for personalized portions that look charming on the plate. Or layer the casserole over a bed of cooked rice or fluffy quinoa to add texture and create a unique, filling meal presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making it just as delicious, if not more, when reheated.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. If you’re short on time, microwave reheating works too—just cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring as needed.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic for its meltability and flavor, feel free to swap in mozzarella for extra gooeyness or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Each option brings a unique twist to the casserole.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with your favorite plant-based ground meat alternative or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly version that still delivers on taste and texture.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely. Chopped bell peppers, corn kernels, or even diced tomatoes can be stirred into the beans and beef mixture before baking. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if adding raw vegetables to ensure they are tender.
What can I use instead of baked beans?
If canned baked beans aren’t your favorite, you can use chili beans or black beans with a splash of barbecue sauce for a similar sweet and smoky profile that keeps the casserole delicious.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe is naturally mild but packed with flavor. If you like a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce when mixing the beans will warm things up nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is a delightful combination of hearty, comforting, and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. Its rich flavors and cheesy topping invite you to dig in and savor each bite. Don’t hesitate to whip up this classic dish and experience why it becomes a beloved staple in so many homes. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again!
Print
Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for family dinners. It combines savory ground beef, flavorful baked beans, and melted cheddar cheese baked to perfection, delivering rich taste with a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) baked beans (or 3 cups homemade baked beans)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Sauce & Seasonings
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard (optional, for extra tang)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking Essentials
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Sauté the Onion: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the ground beef and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
- Mix in the Beans and Sauce: Stir in the baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard (if using), and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything until well combined and heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef and bean mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving hot.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat or extra beans and adjust seasoning accordingly.
- If using homemade baked beans, make sure they are well-seasoned to enhance flavor.
- Feel free to add a bit of chili powder or smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
