Hillbilly Casserole
A hearty, savory casserole featuring ground beef, bacon, and beans in a sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger, chopped bacon, and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Mix the catsup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar in a bowl.
- Bake the meat mixture at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Add all the beans to the casserole.
- Bake for an additional 1.5 to 2 hours until heated through and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger to lighten the dish. If you prefer different beans, try black beans or pinto beans instead of the kidney beans. Adjust the sweetness by using less brown sugar if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Hillbilly Casserole is hearty enough to serve on its own, but pairs beautifully with a fresh Spinach Cottage Cheese Salad (A Green And White Treat For A Crowd) or cornbread for a complete meal. A side of steamed vegetables or a simple coleslaw can also complement the dish well.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hillbilly Casserole contains roughly 1229 calories, with 26g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 725mg per serving (32% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through properly.
What can I use instead of lima beans?
If you're not a fan of lima beans, you can easily substitute them with green beans or chickpeas. Both alternatives will add texture and flavor to the casserole while maintaining its hearty appeal.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
To increase the vegetable content, consider adding diced bell peppers, corn, or even zucchini to the meat mixture. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also add a burst of color and flavor to the casserole.
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).