What ingredients do I need for a baked beans ground beef casserole?

You will need ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option), dried minced onion flakes or fresh onions, canned baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar or honey/maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, precooked bacon or turkey bacon, and optional green pepper and spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika.

Can I substitute ground beef with another type of meat in the casserole?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative. These meats are leaner and cook faster. Adjust seasoning and cooking time to preserve texture and flavor balance.

What types of beans work best for this casserole?

Traditionally, baked beans with navy beans are used. However, black beans or kidney beans can be substituted for varying texture and taste. Keep in mind that different beans may slightly affect cooking times and overall flavor.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. When baking from the fridge, add several minutes to cooking time. The casserole also freezes well, making it convenient for meal prep.

Baked Beans Ground Beef Casserole: Southern Comfort Recipe

Name: Hearty Ground Beef and Beans Casserole: A Simple Southern Comfort Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: PT-485927H30M33S
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option); ¼ cup dried minced onion flakes (or fresh onion, cooked with beef); 2 (15-ounce) cans of baked beans; 6 tablespoons ketchup; ¼ cup brown sugar (can substitute with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1¼ teaspoons salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 5 slices precooked bacon (can substitute with turkey bacon); Optional: chopped green pepper; Optional spices: garlic powder, chili powder, or smoked paprika

Description

🍲 Dive into the heartwarming flavors of our Hearty Ground Beef and Beans Casserole, a comforting Southern classic.
🌟 Quick to prepare and packed with protein, this dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef (can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option)
¼ cup dried minced onion flakes (or fresh onion, cooked with beef)
2 (15-ounce) cans of baked beans
6 tablespoons ketchup
¼ cup brown sugar (can substitute with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1¼ teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
5 slices precooked bacon (can substitute with turkey bacon)
Optional: chopped green pepper
Optional spices: garlic powder, chili powder, or smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and coat a 2-quart casserole dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef with the onion (and optional green pepper) over medium heat until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with the baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, salt, pepper, and optional spices. Mix well.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and arrange bacon slices on top.
5. Cover with lid or foil and bake for 45 minutes. For a thicker consistency and to allow for liquid evaporation, cook uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes until thick and bubbly.

Notes

🕒 The casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated. If baking from the fridge, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
🥄 Avoid over-stirring to prevent the beans from becoming mushy, maintaining a hearty texture.
🍽️ Pair the casserole with grilled chicken, pork, or BBQ dishes for a complete meal, enhancing the Southern comfort experience.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Baking uncovered: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
Calories: 410
Sugar: 12 grams
Sodium: 920 mg
Fat: 20 grams
Saturated Fat: 7 grams
Unsaturated Fat: 13 grams
Trans Fat: 0 grams
Carbohydrates: 30 grams
Fiber: 6 grams
Protein: 24 grams
Cholesterol: 60 mg