Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

Few things bring back cozy memories like sharing a hearty, bubbling Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole around the dinner table. This dish is the epitome of comfort food—savory, saucy, and loaded with flavors that dance together in every scoop. It’s that trusty recipe you turn to for busy weeknights or potluck parties, perfect for feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to some leftovers the next day. With every cheesy, smoky bite, you’ll understand why this casserole always disappears first!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking up a fabulous Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole couldn’t be much easier—or more rewarding. The charm of this casserole is all in the simple, no-fuss ingredients that build big flavors and irresistible textures. A handful of pantry staples work their magic here, each playing a special role in making the final dish so satisfying.

• Ground beef (1 lb): Gives the casserole its hearty, meaty foundation—use lean beef to keep things lighter, or opt for something a little richer for extra flavor.
• Medium onion, diced: Brings subtle sweetness and a welcome savory flavor that permeates the casserole.
• Pork and beans, 1 can (16 oz): The star ingredient that makes everything so wonderfully saucy and tender; choose a brand you love.
• Barbecue sauce (1/2 cup): Adds that smoky, tangy punch and a touch of boldness—use your favorite variety!
• Ketchup (1/4 cup): A little sweetness and tang balances the flavors out beautifully.
• Yellow mustard (1 tbsp): Pops up the flavor and gives the dish a classic, down-home casserole twang.
• Brown sugar (1 tbsp): Just a spoonful for depth and a gorgeous caramelized sweetness.
• Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Boosts the savory notes and ties all the ingredients together.
• Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Brings gentle warmth without overpowering the dish.
• Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances every bite, but adjust to taste if you’re watching your sodium.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into a bubbly, golden blanket—sharp cheddar works best for a rich flavor.

How to Make Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Before you do anything else, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and gets that golden, bubbly cheese on top. While the oven heats, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, so there’s no sticking and cleanup is a breeze when the meal’s done.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion

Grab your largest skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion together, letting them cook until the beef is nicely browned and the onions have softened. This is where the base flavors start building, and your kitchen will start to smell amazing! Make sure to drain off any excess fat to keep the final casserole from turning greasy.

Step 3: Mix in the Beans and Sauces

Now it’s time for the magic—stir in your can of pork and beans, barbecue sauce, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together until you have a thick, homogenous mixture. The sauces mingle and coat every bit of beef and bean, promising huge flavor in every forkful.

Step 4: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Pour that glorious mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. This ensures every serving is packed with all that saucy goodness, with no dry spots to be found.

Step 5: Cheese It Up

Take your shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle it generously over the top. Don’t be shy! The cheese will melt into a gooey, golden layer that crisps up at the edges in the oven—absolutely irresistible.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

Slide the dish, uncovered, into your preheated oven. Bake for about 35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling away at the sides and the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden. Once out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This tiny pause makes serving so much easier (and prevents burned tongues!).

How to Serve Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole

Garnishes

A simple garnish can elevate your Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole from humble to unforgettable. Think about a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions for color and pop. A few pickled jalapeños or even a dollop of sour cream can add a fun twist and contrast beautifully with the rich, savory casserole.

Side Dishes

Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole pairs well with just about anything! Warm cornbread or crusty rolls soak up every drop of sauce, while a crisp green salad or steamed vegetable medley keeps things fresh and colorful. For something extra filling, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, scoop your casserole into individual ramekins or small mason jars for a fun, picnic-style feel. You can also make it portable by spooning leftovers into tortillas for a super-tasty wrap, or pile it over baked potatoes for a hearty twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover any leftover Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole tightly with foil or transfer to a sealed food container. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining its rich sauciness and melty cheese beautifully.

Freezing

To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or freezer-safe wrap. Label with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat your Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning. Heat until warmed through (usually about 20 minutes), or simply microwave individual portions for quick and easy lunches!

FAQs

Can I substitute another type of bean for the pork and beans?

Absolutely! While the classic flavor comes from pork and beans, you can easily swap in baked beans, navy beans, or even black beans if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the sauce content—if your substitute beans are less saucy, add a splash more barbecue sauce or ketchup.

Is there a way to make this casserole a little spicier?

Definitely! Stir in diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce with the other ingredients. The beauty of the Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is how easily it welcomes personal twists.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Of course! Ground turkey or chicken are fantastic lean alternatives. They’ll soak up the saucy flavors just as well, making for a lighter but equally delicious version of the original.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers for lunch?

For quick lunches, individual portions microwave beautifully—just cover to keep the cheese from drying out and heat in 1-minute bursts until steaming hot. If you’re reheating a larger portion, the oven method is best to preserve texture.

Can I prepare Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole the night before?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole (without the cheese) the evening before, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, add the cheese on top and pop it straight in the oven! This makes dinner the next day practically effortless.

Final Thoughts

Who knew something as simple as a Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole could bring so much comfort and flavor to the table? Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s an instant family favorite. Get your ingredients ready, gather everyone around, and dig in—the only thing you’ll regret is not making a double batch!

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