Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole

 Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

If you’re craving a hearty, satisfying dish packed with flavor, this Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is the perfect recipe. Combining savory ground beef, tender beans, and a sweet, tangy sauce, this casserole is a guaranteed family favorite. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a potluck dish, this recipe offers simplicity without sacrificing taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: Simple steps with pantry-friendly ingredients.

Flavor-Packed: A perfect blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors.

Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, BBQs, and family dinners.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for easy reheating.

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Ingredients & Their Roles

Gather these easy-to-find ingredients to create a dish bursting with flavor:

1 lb ground beef: Adds hearty, meaty richness and protein.

1 medium yellow onion (diced): Provides aromatic sweetness and depth of flavor.

1 medium green bell pepper (diced): Adds a fresh, crisp texture and subtle bitterness to balance the sweetness.

1 cup ketchup: The base of the sauce, offering tangy sweetness.

1 tsp mustard: Provides a sharp, zesty kick to cut through the sweetness.

1/2 cup brown sugar (packed): Adds deep molasses-like sweetness and helps caramelize the flavors.

2 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Brings a savory, umami flavor with a hint of smokiness.

2 (15 oz) cans pork and beans (undrained): The heart of the casserole, providing creamy, tender beans and a rich, seasoned sauce.

Salt & black pepper (to taste): Enhances and balances all the flavors.

1 TBS butter: Used for greasing the dish, preventing sticking and adding richness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear steps for the perfect casserole every time:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.

2. Brown the Beef and Vegetables

In a deep skillet over medium heat, brown 1 lb of ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes).

Add diced onion and green bell pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables soften.

Drain excess grease to prevent a greasy casserole.

Pro Tip: For a spicy twist, replace half the green bell pepper with diced jalapeño or poblano peppers.

3. Mix the Sauce

Stir in 1 cup ketchup, ensuring the beef is fully coated.

Add 1 tsp mustard, 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 cup brown sugar. Mix thoroughly.

Taste and season with salt and black pepper to your preference.

4. Combine with Beans

Gently stir in two cans of pork and beans (with juice). Carefully fold to avoid mashing the beans.

5. Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into the prepared 9x13-inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Cover the dish tightly with foil to retain moisture.

Bake for 45 minutes until bubbly and heated through.

Pro Tip: Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes for a slightly caramelized top.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this hearty casserole with complementary sides to create a memorable meal:

Cornbread: A sweet, crumbly side to soak up the sauce.

Coleslaw: Adds a cool, crunchy contrast to the warm, rich casserole.

Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up every delicious bite.

Green Beans: A light, buttery veggie side balances the dish.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Casserole

✅ Use Fresh Vegetables: Freshly diced onions and peppers enhance flavor better than frozen.

✅ Don’t Drain the Beans: The liquid from the pork and beans is key to creating the perfect sauce.

✅ Sweeten to Taste: Adjust the brown sugar for a more or less sweet profile.

✅ Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce if you like heat.

✅ Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate. Simply bake when ready to serve.

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Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors with minimal effort. It’s budget-friendly, filling, and easy to customize to your family’s taste preferences. Whether you’re feeding a large crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to become a regular on your table.

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Final Thoughts

With its simple ingredients, easy instructions, and unforgettable flavor, this casserole deserves a spot in your recipe collection. It’s a classic comfort food that warms the soul and satisfies every appetite. Make it today

, and watch it become a family favorite!

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