Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Meal
Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is the perfect comfort meal that blends the smoky sweetness of baked beans with perfectly seasoned, juicy ground beef. Melted cheese tops off this savory dish, giving it a creamy, gooey texture that makes it irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or a casual potluck, this one-dish wonder brings the warmth of home-cooked goodness straight to your table.
This casserole not only boasts rich flavors but is also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few pantry staples and a little effort, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that satisfies even the heartiest appetites. The combination of beans, beef, and melted cheese creates a filling meal packed with protein and fiber. Serve it alongside cornbread or a fresh side salad for a complete dining experience.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: A balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors with a mild tang from the baked beans.
- Texture: Tender, hearty ground beef combined with soft yet slightly firm baked beans, topped with melted cheese for a creamy finish.
- Aroma: Rich, smoky essence with hints of seasoned beef and sweet barbecue notes.
- Visual Appeal: Warm golden cheese topping over deep brown beans and beef, creating an inviting, rustic presentation.
- Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly with basic cooking techniques like sautéing, seasoning, and baking.
- Special Equipment: A reliable skillet for browning meat and a casserole dish for baking.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Perfect for beginner and intermediate cooks. Most steps involve simple sautéing and baking, making this dish a stress-free dinner option.
- Category: Casserole, one-dish meals, and comfort food.
- Cuisine: American home-style cooking with Southern and Midwestern influences.
- Cost: Budget-friendly, as it uses affordable and common pantry ingredients.
- Season: Ideal for fall and winter but delicious year-round.
- Occasion: Great for family dinners, potlucks, and meal preps.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole offers a deep, rich taste with every bite. The flavors develop during baking, giving you a deliciously well-rounded dish with the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory notes.
With minimal prep time required, this casserole is one of the easiest meals to put together. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights, offering a wholesome, filling meal with very little effort.
Packed with protein from the beef and fiber-rich baked beans, this meal provides sustained energy and keeps you full longer. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a hearty dish that nourishes.
This recipe is always a hit at gatherings and potlucks. It’s a crowd-pleaser, loved by both kids and adults alike, making it a go-to for social occasions.
Affordable and made with everyday staples, this is a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It makes great leftovers, further adding to its value.
The Recipe
Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
- Mixing spoon
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (28 oz) baked beans
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, stirring well to distribute flavors.
- Drain any excess grease, then mix in the barbecue sauce and baked beans. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy warm, paired with cornbread or a side salad.
Recipe Notes
- For extra flavor, add crumbled cooked bacon on top before baking.
- Use a combination of cheeses like Monterey Jack for an even richer taste.
- This casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.