Pinto Hamburger Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, pinto beans, and tomatoes, topped with cornbread. Perfect for comforting family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large frypan, brown hamburger; drain grease.
- Add chopped onion to the hamburger and simmer until softened.
- Mix pinto beans, tomatoes, salt, and pepper into the hamburger and onion mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a loaf pan.
- Prepare cornbread batter and spread over the casserole.
- Bake until the cornbread is golden brown at 400°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the hamburger mixture. If you're out of pinto beans, black beans or kidney beans can be great substitutes. To save time, you could use pre-cooked hamburger meat or canned beans. Ensure the cornbread is prepared according to package instructions for best results.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a family gathering, consider serving it alongside dishes like Quick Hamburger Salisbury or Tastes-Better-Than-It-Looks Casserole. Top with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
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 for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the cornbread may lose its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pinto Hamburger Casserole contains roughly 162 calories, with 4g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% 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 assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent alternatives if you're looking for a lighter option. You can also use plant-based meat substitutes for a vegetarian version, though cooking times may vary. Just ensure any meat substitutes are fully cooked before mixing with the other ingredients.
How long should I bake the casserole?
Bake the casserole at 400°F until the cornbread topping is golden brown, usually around 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-browning. If the edges start to darken too quickly, you can cover them with foil.
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).