Description
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 can (28 oz) baked beans
1/2 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the baked beans, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, followed by crumbled bacon if using.
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal per serving
Servings: 6
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook one pound of ground beef with one diced small onion until the beef is fully browned and the onion is translucent, which should take about 7-10 minutes. Ensure you drain all excess fat thoroughly to prevent a greasy final dish. Next, reduce the heat to low and add one 28-ounce can of baked beans, 1/2 cup ketchup, one tablespoon each of yellow mustard and Worcestershire sauce, one teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper. Stir well and let the mixture simmer gently for a full 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. For a classic cookout plate, serve it alongside a crisp green salad, buttery cornbread, or tangy coleslaw. It also makes an excellent filling for baked potatoes or a topping for hot dog buns for a creative twist. For a lighter option, serve with steamed green beans or roasted vegetables.
How-to Summary
Brown beef and onion, drain fat. Mix in beans, sauces, and seasonings, then simmer. Transfer to a dish, top with cheese and optional bacon. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative work well. For a vegetarian version, use an extra can of beans or lentils.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I freeze this baked bean casserole? It freezes best before baking. Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
My casserole is too watery. How can I fix this? Ensure you drain the beef thoroughly and let the bean mixture simmer for the full 5 minutes to reduce liquid. You can also drain a little liquid from the baked bean can before adding.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not draining the cooked ground beef adequately, resulting in a greasy final product.
- Skipping the 5-minute simmering step, which is crucial for flavor development and thickening the sauce.
- Overbaking, which can cause the cheese to become tough and oily instead of melted and creamy.
- Using a baking dish that is too small, leading to overflow in the oven.
Conclusion
This easy baked bean casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or backyard barbecues. With its simple ingredients, customizable toppings, and straightforward process, it’s a reliable recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
