Pork And Beans And Ground Meat Casserole
A hearty casserole combining savory ground meat, sweet pork and beans, and melted American cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat with chopped onion.
- In a greased casserole dish, combine pork and beans, mustard, brown sugar, and catsup.
- Mix the bean mixture well.
- Add the cooked meat and onion to the casserole and mix.
- Top with sliced American cheese.
- Bake, covered, at 450°F for 20 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding bell peppers or garlic while browning the meat. If you want a little heat, a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños can enhance the dish. You can substitute the ground meat with turkey or chicken for a lighter version, and swap the American cheese for cheddar for a sharper taste. This recipe is a great way to use up pantry staples, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot, with a side of fresh fried potatoes for a comforting meal. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables can add a refreshing touch to balance the richness of the dish. For a complete family dinner, consider pairing it with Wayne's Meatballs or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Leftovers make excellent lunches too!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave or oven until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to retain moisture. This dish can also be frozen for up to three months; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork And Beans And Ground Meat Casserole contains roughly 883 calories, with 21g protein, 163g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 794mg per serving (35% 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. Just assemble it, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This helps it cook evenly and ensures that it's heated through.
What can I use instead of American cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, cheddar works wonderfully in this recipe. You can also try mozzarella for a milder flavor or even a combination of cheeses for a more complex taste. Just be sure to adjust the amount based on the melting properties of the cheese you choose.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, corn, or even spinach can be added to the bean mixture for extra nutrition and flavor. Just ensure the vegetables are cooked slightly before adding them to the casserole to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the final texture.
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).