If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug, then this Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together savory ground beef and sweet, tangy baked beans, all topped with gooey melted cheddar. Perfectly simple yet deeply satisfying, this casserole is ideal for weeknight dinners or anytime you need something that tastes like home. Let me walk you through every delicious detail of this crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is simple and familiar, yet each plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color. From the juicy ground beef to the richness of melted cheddar, every component has its moment to shine.
- Ground beef (1 lb): The hearty base that delivers savory richness and satisfying texture.
- Small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed just right.
- Baked beans (2 cans or 3 cups homemade): The star ingredient providing a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into creamy, golden goodness on top of the casserole.
- Ketchup (1 cup): Brings tangy tomato flavor that ties everything together.
- Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Adds a mellow sweetness that complements the beans beautifully.
- Mustard (1 teaspoon, optional): For a subtle tang that brightens the dish.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon): Infuses a rich, savory complexity.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Garlic powder (2 teaspoons, optional): Adds a gentle garlicky warmth without overpowering.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to cook the beef and onions, adding a subtle fruity richness.
How to Make Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until fully browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. This step forms the rich and savory foundation of your casserole.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Next, toss in the diced onion to the skillet with the cooked beef. Sauté together for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion softens and becomes fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if you’d like that touch of extra flavor. The softened onion adds a gentle sweetness and mellow texture that complements the beef perfectly.
Step 3: Mix in the Beans and Sauce
Now comes the magic moment where everything starts coming together. Stir in the baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard (if you are using it), and Worcestershire sauce. Combine all ingredients thoroughly and let the mix heat through for about 3 to 5 minutes. This step lets those natural juices mingle, creating a flavorful, thickened filling ready to be baked.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer your savory beef and bean mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out into an even layer to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top—it will melt and form a perfect golden crust during baking.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned at the edges. This baking melds all the flavors and textures beautifully into one irresistible dish.
Step 6: Serve Your Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes — this helps everything settle and stay together when you scoop it out. Serve it warm to enjoy that hearty, comforting blend of baked beans, melted cheese, and savory beef in every bite.
How to Serve Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a simple garnish can elevate your casserole to something special. Try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. A dollop of sour cream on the side brings cool creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the richness.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands as a complete meal but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a slice of fresh crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. For a hearty feast, consider serving it alongside corn on the cob or steamed broccoli for a vibrant dinner plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or bring fun to a family dinner? Serve the casserole in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of extra cheddar or crispy fried onions. You can also layer the filling in a deep-dish pie crust for a twist that feels like a meat and bean pie with all the classic flavors you love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent it from drying out. Leftovers often taste even better once the flavors have had more time to meld together overnight.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole leftover as well. Cool it completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole casserole tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will stay delicious for up to 2 months when frozen, making it a perfect make-ahead meal option.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and bubbly again. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works fine but reheating gradually in the oven helps maintain that wonderful cheesy crust.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of ground beef in this casserole?
Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this recipe. Just be mindful to cook it fully and drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery casserole.
What kind of baked beans should I use?
Traditional canned baked beans work perfectly for convenience, but if you prefer, homemade baked beans or even vegetarian versions can be used. Choose varieties with flavors you enjoy, as it will influence the final taste.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you double-check the baked beans and Worcestershire sauce labels to avoid any hidden gluten ingredients.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, corn, or even finely chopped spinach can be mixed into the beef and bean mixture before baking for extra nutrition and flavor variety.
How spicy is this casserole, and can I make it spicier?
This casserole is mild and kid-friendly as written. To add a little kick, consider stirring in some chili powder, cayenne, or hot sauce to the sauce mixture before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm, comforting celebration of simple ingredients done right. It’s perfect for feeding a family or impressing friends with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to comfort food staple!
Print
Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole that combines savory ground beef, sweet and tangy baked beans, and melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners and packed with rich flavors from a combination of ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce, baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Beans and Sauce
- 2 cans (15 oz each) baked beans (or 3 cups homemade baked beans)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard (optional, for extra tang)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder (optional)
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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 out 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 the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve hot, and enjoy your hearty Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole!
Notes
- For a tangier flavor, do not skip the mustard as it adds a nice subtle sharpness to the dish.
- You can substitute baked beans with homemade beans for a fresher taste.
- Feel free to add chopped bell peppers or jalapenos for added texture and spice.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
