Barbecue Bean Casserole
A hearty, smoky casserole combining ground beef, onions, and baked beans in a tangy barbecue sauce. Perfect for casual family dinners or potlucks, this dish offers bold flavors and comforting textures. Its simple preparation makes it an easy, satisfying choice for weeknight or weekend meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet; pour off excess fat.
- Add salt, black pepper, catsup, Tabasco sauce (if using), and pork and beans to the skillet.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meat substitute and use vegetarian beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with chopped green onions or shredded cheese for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or cornbread, making it a complete meal. For a hearty variation, consider serving it alongside Oven Baked Pot Roast for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Bean Casserole contains roughly 560 calories, with 12g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (103% of the Daily Value), iron (64% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1970mg per serving (86% of the Daily Value).
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 use different types of beans?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various beans such as black beans or kidney beans. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to complement the type of beans you choose, as they can have different flavor profiles.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes! If you prefer a spicier casserole, increase the amount of Tabasco sauce or add diced jalapeños to the mixture. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
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).