Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole

When life gets hectic, sometimes all you need is a dish that feels like a warm hug. Enter: Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole. It’s hearty, it’s flavorful, and it’s one of those old-school meals that brings people together—especially when comfort is on the menu.

Let’s dive into the cozy world of this timeless casserole and see what makes it a dinner table staple for generations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You don’t need to be a culinary wizard to whip this up. This casserole is:

• Super easy to throw together
• Packed with flavorful, pantry-staple ingredients
• The kind of dish that’ll make the whole house smell incredible

How to Make Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole

This version of Baked Beans with Ground Beef is rich, flavorful, and super easy to make. You’re basically combining hearty ingredients, letting them marry their flavors in the oven, and then digging into comfort food heaven.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 1 (28 oz) can of baked beans (like Bush’s Original or your favorite brand)
• ½ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark, your choice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef and break it up with a spatula. Toss in the chopped onion and cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are tender—about 6–8 minutes. Drain off the excess grease so the casserole doesn’t get greasy.

Step 2: Mix Everything Together

In the same skillet (or in a large bowl if your skillet’s too small), stir in the baked beans, ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar. Give it a good mix so all the ingredients are nicely combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like it a bit sweeter, you can add an extra spoon of brown sugar. Prefer it tangier? A splash more mustard or ketchup will do.

Step 3: Pour into Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 casserole dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Optional: Top with shredded cheddar cheese or a few slices of cooked bacon for an extra flavor punch.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbling around the edges and smells amazing.

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Optional Add-Ons & Variations

• Add green bell pepper with the onion for an extra layer of flavor.
• Top with crispy fried onions or crushed Ritz crackers before baking for added crunch.
• Swap beef with ground turkey or sausage to mix things up.

Quick Tips for the Best Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole

• Drain the beef well after cooking to avoid excess grease.
• Use quality baked beans – it makes a big difference in flavor.
• Add toppings like shredded cheese or crumbled bacon before baking for extra richness.
• Taste and adjust – a little extra mustard or brown sugar can balance the flavor perfectly.
• Let it rest 5–10 minutes after baking so it thickens up nicely.

Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Options: Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, sausage, or even plant-based meat for a twist.
• Bean Swap: Use kidney beans, pinto beans, or a mix for more texture and variety.
• Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Stir in a pinch of chili powder, smoked paprika, or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Topping Ideas: Add shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or crushed crackers for a flavorful topping.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes or bake in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes until heated through. Add a splash of water if it seems too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole

1. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated through.

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2. What type of beans should I use?
The classic choice is canned pork and beans, but feel free to use other varieties like baked beans or kidney beans. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as different beans may have varying levels of sweetness and flavor.

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3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or wrap portions in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

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4. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or additional vegetables like mushrooms and lentils to create a hearty vegetarian version of the casserole.

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5. How can I make the casserole spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate ingredients like diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the mixture before baking. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.

Final Thoughts

Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—simple, hearty, and full of bold, sweet-and-savory flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping for a potluck, or just craving something satisfying, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s easy to customize, budget-friendly, and even better the next day. Give it a try—you might just find yourself adding it to your weekly dinner rotation!

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