Baked Bean And Bacon Casserole
A hearty baked bean and bacon casserole combining smoky bacon, sweet and tangy sauce, and three types of beans for a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp.
- Drain the bacon but reserve 2 tablespoons of fat.
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in the reserved bacon fat.
- Drain the beef and onion mixture.
- Set aside half the cooked bacon for topping.
- Combine all ingredients, including the drained beans, in a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Mix well to combine.
- Top the mixture with the reserved bacon pieces.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F (163°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you're short on time, you can use canned beans that are already seasoned. Adjust the sweetness by using less brown sugar or swapping it for maple syrup. For extra zest, add a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with Speedy Beef Goulash.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty and can be served as a main dish. Pair it with a fresh green salad or cornbread for a complete meal. It's also great alongside coleslaw or pickles for a tangy contrast. Consider serving it with a side of baked potatoes for a comforting dinner. For more comforting meals, explore other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Bean And Bacon Casserole contains roughly 961 calories, with 15g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just assemble it without baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you prefer a healthier option or need to avoid pork, you can use turkey bacon or omit it entirely. You might also consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to replicate some of the bacon flavor in the casserole.
Can I freeze the baked bean and bacon casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).