Savory Baked Beans with Ground Beef
If your childhood kitchen smelled like slow-cooked comfort food, there’s a good chance you’ve tasted a version of baked beans and ground beef casserole. This is more than just a dish—it’s a way to bring the family together. The smoky scent, the bubbling sauce, the cozy warmth filling the home—it’s not just dinner; it’s a memory waiting to happen.
I first tried making this casserole on a chilly autumn evening, wanting something hearty that would nourish both body and soul. One bite and I knew it would become a favorite. Since then, it has become a staple in our home—dependable, comforting, and always a welcome sight at the table.
📝 Ingredients
- Ground beef – 1 lb / 450 g
- Onion, chopped – 1 medium
- Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
- Baked beans in tomato sauce – 1 can (28 oz / 800 g)
- Kidney beans, drained & rinsed – 1 can (15 oz / 425 g)
- Pinto beans, drained & 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 & black pepper – to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping) – 1 cup / 100 g
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the baked beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Assemble: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Optional: During the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded cheddar on top for a golden, melty finish.
- Serve warm with cornbread, biscuits, or over rice.
