Barbecue Casserole
A hearty and savory barbecue casserole featuring ground meats, beans, and flavorful spices. Its rich, smoky taste makes it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a comforting mix of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes that satisfy any craving for classic American comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat and sausage; drain well.
- Saute the diced onion, diced green pepper, and chopped celery.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the meat mixture.
- In a separate bowl, mix the pork and beans, tomato sauce, brown sugar, and chili powder.
- Add salt, pepper, and minced garlic or garlic powder to taste.
- Combine the bean mixture with the meat mixture.
- Pour the combined mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Bake, covered, at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Continue baking, uncovered, for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the bean mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for the beef or sausage. You can also use canned kidney beans or black beans instead of pork and beans for a different texture. Adjust the chili powder according to your spice preference.
Serving Suggestions
This barbecue casserole is great served with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad. For some crunch, consider adding a simple coleslaw on the side. It pairs beautifully with Ann'S Hearty Bean Soup for a comforting meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top can add a nice finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Casserole contains roughly 1547 calories, with 31g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (177% of the Daily Value), iron (80% of the Daily Value), and protein (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1311mg per serving (57% 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 a different type of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground meat with any type of ground meat you prefer, such as turkey or pork. Each will provide a slightly different flavor, but they all work well in this dish. Just ensure that the meat is cooked through before combining it with the other ingredients.
How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, replace the ground meat and sausage with a plant-based meat substitute or extra beans and vegetables. You can also use lentils for added protein. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as plant-based products may require less time to cook.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole a day ahead. Assemble it completely and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate it overnight, and when ready to bake, remove it from the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
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).