Baked Beans and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is the perfect easy weeknight dinner that comes together in minutes. Hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor, it’s a family favorite that requires minimal prep. For another simple ground beef meal, try the Ground Beef and Rice Casserole | Easy Dinner Idea Recipe. This one-dish wonder is sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation.

Ingredients

This hearty Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole combines savory beef, sweet baked beans, and a tangy sauce for a comforting, family-friendly meal.

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 can (28 ounces) baked beans
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	45 minutes
Total Time	1 hour

Context: This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is ready in about 20% less time than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Preheat Oven & Prepare Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients: ground beef, canned baked beans, onion, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and shredded cheese. This ensures a smooth cooking process without interruptions.

Step 2 — Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned and no pink remains, about 7–10 minutes. Break it into crumbles as it cooks for even texture. Drain excess fat to keep your Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole from becoming greasy.

Step 3 — Sauté Aromatics

Add finely chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for 3–5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This step builds a flavorful base for your casserole.

Step 4 — Combine Sauce Ingredients

In a medium bowl, mix ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of brown sugar if desired. Stir until well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning—this sauce will bind and flavor the entire dish.

Step 5 — Mix Casserole Filling

Transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Stir in the baked beans and prepared sauce until everything is evenly coated. Spread the mixture into a uniform layer for consistent baking.

Step 6 — Top with Cheese

Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar or your favorite melting cheese evenly over the casserole. For extra browning, use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar.

Step 7 — Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly browned. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F for food safety.

Step 8 — Rest Before Serving

Remove the Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Step 9 — Serve and Enjoy

Scoop generous portions onto plates and serve warm. This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with cornbread, a simple green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fat	15g
Fiber	9g
Sodium	780mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Ground Turkey — Lighter protein with a mild flavor that absorbs the savory sauce well.
• Lentils — Plant-based protein alternative that adds earthy flavor and fiber.
• Low-Sodium Baked Beans — Reduces salt content while maintaining the classic sweet and tangy taste.
• Cauliflower Rice — Lower-carb base that soaks up flavors without overpowering the dish.
• Dairy-Free Cheese — Melts beautifully for those avoiding dairy while adding creamy texture.
• Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs — Provides the same crispy topping without gluten-containing ingredients.
• Black Beans — Higher fiber bean option with robust flavor that pairs well with ground beef.
• Zucchini Noodles — Fresh, low-carb vegetable alternative that adds lightness to the casserole.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal.
• Serve alongside cornbread or crusty garlic bread to soak up the savory sauce.
• Top individual servings with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, or sliced green onions for extra flavor.
• Bring this hearty Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole to potlucks or family gatherings—it travels well and feeds a crowd.
• For a comforting weeknight dinner, plate it straight from the oven in shallow bowls.
• Add a side of coleslaw or pickles to cut through the richness of the casserole.

This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is versatile enough for casual dinners, game day spreads, or outdoor barbecues. Its robust flavors and easy preparation make it a year-round favorite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using lean ground beef which can dry out during baking. Fix: Opt for 80/20 ground beef to maintain moisture and flavor in your Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole.
• Mistake: Not draining excess grease after browning the beef. Fix: Always drain the beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy, unappetizing final dish.
• Mistake: Adding raw onions directly to the casserole. Fix: Sauté onions with the ground beef to soften them and develop a sweeter, deeper flavor.
• Mistake: Using canned baked beans without enhancing their flavor. Fix: Boost the sauce with a tablespoon of ketchup, mustard, or Worcestershire sauce for a more complex taste.
• Mistake: Overbaking the casserole, causing the beans to become mushy. Fix: Bake just until bubbly and heated through, typically 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
• Mistake: Skipping the step of seasoning the ground beef while cooking. Fix: Generously season the beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder during browning for a flavorful base.
• Mistake: Forgetting a crispy topping, resulting in a one-note texture. Fix: Add a layer of shredded cheese or buttery breadcrumbs in the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Mistake: Using a baking dish that is too shallow, leading to spillovers in the oven. Fix: Choose a deep 9×13 inch or 3-quart casserole dish to contain all ingredients safely.
• Mistake: Not letting the Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole rest before serving. Fix: Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking so the flavors meld and it sets for easier serving.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, label with date, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Thaw in fridge if frozen, then reheat in oven at 350°F until internal temperature reaches 165°F, or microwave until steaming hot.

Always ensure your Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F when reheating to prevent foodborne illness.

Conclusion

This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. If you enjoyed this recipe, try our Mexican White Trash Casserole Recipe or Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe for more easy comfort food. Leave a comment with your results and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

Print

FAQs

Can I make this Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed. This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is great for meal prep.

What can I use instead of ground beef in this recipe?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground alternative. The cooking method remains the same. The flavor of your Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole will vary slightly but will still be delicious.

How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven until hot. This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole reheats well.