Hearty Baked Bean Casserole
A hearty baked bean casserole combining savory sausages, ground beef, tender onions, and sweet brown sugar, perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the small pork sausage links in a skillet.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, stirring until lightly browned.
- Drain off excess fat from the meat mixture.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and the brown gravy mix.
- In a 2 1/2 or 3-quart casserole dish, combine the meat mixture with the pork and beans.
- Peel the onions and cut into thick slices.
- Pierce each onion slice with 3 or 4 cloves.
- Arrange the onion slices on top of the casserole and sprinkle with brown sugar.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using spicy pork sausage instead of mild. You can substitute turkey sausage or ground turkey for a leaner option. If you like a bit of sweetness, try adding a tablespoon of molasses to the mixture. If fresh onions are unavailable, onion powder can work in a pinch. For a twist, mix in some chopped bell peppers or jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad. For a comforting meal, serve it alongside a creamy coleslaw or baked potatoes. You could also consider preparing a batch of Hors D'Oeuvre Cocktail Meatballs To Freeze for an easy appetizer to serve with this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in a covered casserole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Baked Bean Casserole contains roughly 745 calories, with 24g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (44% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1036mg per serving (45% 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 canned beans instead of pork and beans?
Yes, you can substitute canned beans of your choice, such as kidney beans or black beans, for pork and beans. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning since pork and beans have a slightly sweet flavor. You may wish to add a bit more brown sugar or spices to taste.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef and sausage with plant-based alternatives, such as lentils or veggie crumbles. Use a vegetable broth instead of brown gravy mix to maintain flavor. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to enhance the dish.
Can this casserole be frozen?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Prepare it up to the point of baking, then cover tightly with foil and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. It may need a little extra time in the oven if baked from frozen.
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).