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Hearty Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole with bacon and onions

Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole

A cozy, filling casserole that combines sweet, smoky flavors with ground beef and beans for a hearty meal that's easy to make and great for leftovers.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Ground beef (80/20 preferred) Use leaner only if additional seasoning is added.
  • 2 cans Canned baked beans Choose a brand that suits your flavor preference (sweet or smoky).
  • 1 medium Onion, diced Provides the flavor base.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Add at the end of cooking onions.
  • 1/4 cup Ketchup Basic flavor enhancer.
  • 1 tbsp Mustard Basic flavor enhancer.
  • 1 tbsp Brown sugar Optional; add if beans are too tangy.
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce For added savory flavor.
  • 1 tsp Salt To taste.
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper To taste.
  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika Enhances flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks until fully browned.
  3. Drain excess grease but do not rinse the beef.
  4. Add diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  5. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with baked beans, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
  7. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  8. Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
Baking
  1. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
  2. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.

Notes

For variations, try adding BBQ sauce, cheese, corn, or tater tots on top. Serve with cornbread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.