Baked Beans Ground Beef Casserole

Baked beans ground beef casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or neighborhood potlucks. The smoky hint of pork and beans brings a classic southern flavor while the sweet tang from brown sugar and ketchup ties everything together. It is an all-in-one family meal that checks every box for simplicity and heartiness.

I tried this casserole for a chilly game day, and it disappeared before half-time. It is one of those recipes everyone requests seconds of and now my go-to for relaxed family weekends.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Adds rich flavor and protein for a satisfying casserole. Look for fresh beef with bright color
• Yellow onion: Brings depth and soft sweetness. Choose firm onions with papery skin
• Green bell pepper: Adds crunch and bright bite. Pick ones with glossy skin and no soft spots
• Ketchup: Gives tangy sweetness and helps bind everything. Try to use a thick tomato-packed variety
• Brown sugar: Balances savory notes with just-right sweetness. Use packed light brown sugar for best melting
• Mustard: Lifts all the other flavors. A yellow classic is perfect here
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth. A dash goes a long way to round out flavors
• Pork and beans: Provide heartiness and a bit of smokiness. Use classic canned pork and beans do not drain
• Butter: For greasing the pan with a little richness. Unsalted lets you control the salt
• Salt and black pepper: For seasoning. Always taste and adjust as you mix

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Grease a nine by thirteen baking dish with butter making sure to cover the corners so nothing sticks. This helps with easy cleanup and gives a subtle golden crust

Cook the Ground Beef:

In a deep skillet cook the ground beef over medium heat breaking it up and stirring occasionally. Let it cook until there is no pink left then drain off any extra grease for a less oily casserole

Sauté Onion and Pepper:

Add diced onion and bell pepper right into the skillet with the beef. Cook over medium until that onion softens and grows translucent and the bell pepper is just tender about five to eight minutes. This step is where a lot of the casserole base flavor happens

Mix in Sauces and Sweetener:

Pour in ketchup first and stir to coat all the meat and vegetables. Add mustard Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar mixing well. Taste it before adding salt and pepper and adjust until it is just how you like

Add Pork and Beans:

With the heat off gently stir in both cans of pork and beans liquid included. Fold carefully to avoid mashing the beans. This gives the casserole the right texture

Fill and Cover the Dish:

Pour the entire mixture into your greased pan. Spread it out with a spatula into a smooth layer. To keep every bite extra moist cover tightly with aluminum foil so steam cannot escape

Bake to Perfection:

Transfer to your preheated oven. Bake at three fifty degrees for forty five minutes. The beans will bubble and the flavors meld into that classic casserole taste. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor

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Whenever I make this dish I always look forward to the aroma of onions and Worcestershire filling the kitchen. It always reminds me of cozy winter nights when everyone is crowding close by the dinner table and joking about who gets the last scoop.

Storage Tips

After the casserole has cooled transfer leftovers to airtight containers. Store them in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage freeze individual portions then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Cover tightly when reheating so the beans stay moist and do not dry out in the oven.

Ingredient Substitutions

No green bell pepper? Try diced red bell pepper for a little sweetness or use poblano for a mild kick. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter casserole. For an extra smoky taste stir in a touch of smoked paprika or top with diced bacon before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is wonderful as a main dish with a side of cornbread a crisp green salad or even just a handful of potato chips. I love to sprinkle on a bit of shredded cheddar during the last ten minutes of baking or top with chopped scallions for a fresh bite. It is also a popular choice at potlucks when you want to serve something filling and homey.

Cultural Context

Baked beans are a beloved staple in many American kitchens especially the South and Midwest. Pairing them with ground beef dates back generations as a way to stretch simple ingredients into hearty meals. This casserole represents classic comfort food at its best keeping families nourished and satisfied with common pantry items.

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Serve this casserole warm for the best taste. It is guaranteed to become a comfort food classic at your table.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of bean?

Yes, you can substitute pork and beans with other canned beans like navy or pinto for a similar texture and taste.

→ How can I add more spice?

Add chopped jalapeno or poblano along with the bell pepper to give the casserole an extra kick of heat.

→ Is it possible to make this ahead?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready. Increase baking time if chilled.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs well with cornbread, a green salad, or classic coleslaw for a complete meal.

→ Can ground turkey be used instead of beef?

Ground turkey is a great substitution, offering a lighter alternative with similar hearty results.