Savory Baked Beans with Ground Beef
If you grew up in a home where the kitchen carried the aroma of slow-simmered meals, chances are you’ve come across some version of a baked bean and ground beef casserole. It’s more than a simple recipe—it’s a dish that has a way of gathering everyone together. The smoky aroma, the bubbling sauce, the warmth that fills the house—it isn’t just dinner; it’s the kind of comfort that becomes a memory.
I first made this casserole on a crisp fall night, looking for something substantial and soothing. One serving was enough to convince me it would become a regular in our meal rotation. Since then, it has earned a permanent place on our table—reliable, cozy, and always welcomed.
📝 Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb / 450 g
- Medium onion, chopped – 1
- Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
- Baked beans in tomato sauce – 1 can (28 oz / 800 g)
- Kidney beans, drained and rinsed – 1 can (15 oz / 425 g)
- Pinto beans, drained and rinsed – 1 can (15 oz / 425 g)
- Barbecue sauce – 1 cup / 250 ml
- Brown sugar – 2 tbsp
- Worcestershire sauce – 1 tbsp
- Mustard (yellow or Dijon) – 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika (optional) – ½ tsp
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping) – 1 cup / 100 g
👩🍳 Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion. Pour off any excess grease.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute, just until fragrant.
- Build the mixture: Add the baked beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer to the dish: Spoon the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) casserole pan.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and hot throughout.
- Optional topping: During the last 10 minutes, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top for a melted, golden finish.
- Serve warm—it pairs wonderfully with cornbread, biscuits, or even ladled over rice.
