Picnic Bean Casserole
A hearty, sweet and savory bean casserole with bacon, ground beef, and a rich tomato-brown sugar sauce, perfect for family dinners and outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the bacon in a skillet, then cut into small pieces.
- Add the ground beef to the bacon and cook until browned.
- Combine the cooked bacon and beef with chopped onion, catsup, brown sugar, vinegar, and drained beans in a baking dish.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Keep covered for the last 30 minutes of baking time.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika or using maple bacon. If you don't have brown sugar, honey or agave syrup can work as substitutes. Feel free to add other beans like black beans or pinto beans for variety. Be cautious with the salt since bacon and canned beans can be salty. Adjust to taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Picnic Bean Casserole pairs beautifully with cornbread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a hearty side, consider serving it with coleslaw or potato salad. It’s perfect for potlucks or picnics, and the flavors deepen if allowed to sit for a bit before serving, making it a great make-ahead dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picnic Bean Casserole contains roughly 1088 calories, with 17g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 80g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 943mg per serving (41% 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?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a bacon substitute, consider using turkey bacon for a leaner option or diced smoked sausage for a similar flavor. For a vegetarian version, you can use mushrooms to add umami and a bit of liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor of bacon.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, add about 15-30 minutes to the baking time, checking for doneness before serving.
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).