Hamburger 4 Bean Casserole
A hearty baked casserole combining savory hamburger with sweet beans and molasses, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking rich, flavorful dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet.
- Add drained beans to the browned hamburger.
- Mix all other ingredients (molasses, brown sugar, vinegar, mustard, catsup, salt, onion soup mix) together in a bowl.
- Stir the mixture to blend thoroughly.
- Combine the mixture with the hamburger and beans.
- Transfer everything to a covered casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding diced bell peppers or onions to the mixture. You can substitute the hamburger with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you're looking to reduce sugar, try using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of brown sugar. For a smoky flavor, add a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread, such as Annette'S Super Cornbread, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving alongside steamed vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely to prevent drying out, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger 4 Bean Casserole contains roughly 229 calories, with 3g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% of the Daily Value) and potassium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1223mg per serving (53% 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 in this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite beans. While kidney, garbanzo, and green beans are great choices, you can also use black beans or pinto beans depending on your preference. Just ensure you drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply complete the assembly, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through properly.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like corn, diced tomatoes, or bell peppers can enhance both flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them briefly before mixing them in to ensure they're cooked properly and blend well with the other ingredients.
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).