Baked Beans Ground Beef

This baked beans and ground beef casserole brings together tender beef, sweet and tangy pork and beans, and classic southern flavors into one super-comforting meal. It is perfect for feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or making sure everyone at your potluck goes home happy. Everything cooks up in a single baking dish, saving time and cleanup while delivering big flavor.

I tried this casserole during a chilly game day and it did not last until halftime. Now it is the relaxed weekend family favorite that everyone requests when they want something cozy and filling.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: gives rich flavor and hearty protein for a satisfying casserole. Look for beef with a bright red color and fresh aroma
• Yellow onion: brings gentle sweetness and depth. Choose onions that feel heavy with a tight papery skin
• Green bell pepper: adds fresh crunch and bright bite. Pick ones that are glossy with no soft or sunken spots
• Ketchup: adds tangy sweetness and helps bind all the filling. A thick tomato packed variety works best
• Brown sugar: brings balanced sweetness that melts and coats the meat. Use packed light brown sugar for the smoothest melt
• Mustard: lifts all the flavors and cuts the richness. Classic yellow adds just enough tang
• Worcestershire sauce: provides umami depth and ties together the sweet and savory flavors. Only a dash is needed for an extra layer
• Pork and beans: supply body and classic smoky undertones. Do not drain the cans so you keep all the sauciness
• Butter: is used for greasing the dish and adds a little richness. Unsalted lets you control the saltiness
• Salt and black pepper: for seasoning. Always taste as you mix so you are happy with the flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with butter making sure to get the corners well. This gives a subtle golden crust and helps with easy cleanup

Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large deep skillet heat ground beef over medium. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it is browned with no pink left then drain excess grease to keep the casserole from being oily

Sauté Onion and Pepper:

Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook over medium until the onion turns soft and translucent and the pepper is just tender about five to eight minutes. This is where the base flavor develops

Mix in Sauces and Sweetener:

Stir in ketchup first then add mustard Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar. Mix very well. Taste now before seasoning and add salt and black pepper to your liking

Add Pork and Beans:

The heat should be off. Gently stir in the pork and beans with all their sauce. Fold carefully so as not to mash the beans. You want whole beans for the best texture

Fill and Cover the Dish:

Pour the mixture into your prepared dish and smooth it to an even layer. Cover tightly with aluminum foil to keep it moist while baking

Bake to Perfection:

Bake in a preheated oven at three hundred fifty degrees for forty five minutes until the beans bubble and everything is joined together with classic casserole flavor. Serve it up hot for the best taste and texture

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One of my favorite parts about this casserole is how the onions and sauce perfume the kitchen while it bakes. Walking in to that comforting smell always reminds me of cozy winter nights and family banter around the dinner table.

Storage Tips

Cool the casserole completely then transfer to airtight containers for up to four days in the fridge. For longer keeping freeze in individual portions and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Cover with foil when reheating to prevent the beans from drying out in the oven.

Ingredient Substitutions

No green pepper on hand? You can swap in red bell pepper for extra sweetness or try poblano for a gentle heat. Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take that still tastes rich. If a smokier flavor is your preference a little smoked paprika or topped bacon does the trick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole as the hearty star alongside cornbread a leafy green salad or potato chips. I like to sprinkle on shredded cheddar in the last ten minutes of baking or cover with sliced scallions right before serving for a little zip. It is always a hit at potlucks or when you want to treat everyone to comforting home cooking.

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Cultural Context

Baked beans paired with ground meat has been a staple in American kitchens especially throughout the South and Midwest. These casseroles started as a way to stretch pantry staples and fill up hungry families and now remain a symbol of classic comfort food with flavors that never go out of style.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute other beans for baked beans?

Yes, navy or pinto beans work well for a similar texture and flavor profile in this dish.

→ How can I add a spicy kick?

Incorporate diced jalapeno or poblano peppers along with the green bell pepper for extra heat.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble it ahead, store refrigerated, and bake when needed. Adjust baking times as necessary if chilled.

→ What side dishes complement this casserole?

Serve alongside cornbread, a crisp green salad, or classic coleslaw for a balanced, satisfying meal.

→ Can ground turkey replace ground beef?

Ground turkey is a great substitute, providing a lighter taste while maintaining heartiness.