Looking for a hearty, comforting, and flavorful dish? This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, packed with savory ground beef, smoky bacon, and sweet baked beans. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, making it a go-to dish for family dinners, potlucks, or BBQ nights.
With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this casserole comes together in no time. Serve it as a standalone meal or as a side with cornbread, mashed potatoes, or grilled meats. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Packed with bold, smoky flavors
✔ Super easy to make with pantry staples
✔ Perfect for family dinners or gatherings
✔ Great for meal prepping and leftovers
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (28 oz) baked beans
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
How to Make Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef & Onion
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Add the Flavor
- Stir in the baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Assemble & Bake
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 baking dish.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the top.
- (Optional) Top with shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist.
Step 5: Bake & Serve
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and slightly caramelized on top.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
🥖 Pair with: Cornbread, garlic bread, or dinner rolls
🥗 Serve alongside: Coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a green salad
🍽 Topping ideas: Extra cheese, chopped green onions, or crushed crackers for crunch
Tips for the Best Casserole
✔ Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
✔ For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
✔ Make it ahead! This casserole tastes even better the next day.
✔ Swap the beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole is a delicious, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s comfort food at its finest, packed with bold flavors and a satisfying texture. Whether you serve it for dinner or bring it to a gathering, it’s sure to be a hit!
Will you be trying this recipe? Let us know in the comments! 🍽️🔥
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