Potluck Bean Casserole
A hearty, flavorful bean casserole infused with smoky bacon, savory hamburger, and sweet and tangy seasonings. Perfect for potlucks or family dinners, it combines creamy beans with a rich meat sauce topped with bacon slices for added texture and flavor, making it a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown bacon slices in a skillet until crispy, then set aside.
- Brown the hamburger and chopped onion in some of the bacon fat.
- Partially drain the Great Northern beans and mix them with the pork and beans in a large casserole dish.
- Add the cooked hamburger and onion mixture to the beans.
- Season with brown sugar, vinegar, dry mustard, catsup, salt, and pepper.
- Bake the casserole at 350°F for 1 hour.
- During the last 15 minutes of baking, place the bacon slices across the top of the casserole.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon and hamburger with mushrooms and lentils. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar based on your taste. This dish can also benefit from a pinch of cayenne pepper for a slight kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole warm, topped with the crispy bacon, alongside a fresh green salad or cornbread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Hot And Sweet Pickles for a tangy contrast. This dish is perfect for potlucks, as it can be made ahead and easily transported, ensuring everyone enjoys a hearty serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Potluck Bean Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potluck Bean Casserole contains roughly 407 calories, with 11g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 843mg per serving (37% 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 it without baking and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of Great Northern beans?
If you can't find Great Northern beans, you can substitute them with white kidney beans or navy beans. Both options will maintain the creamy texture of the dish while providing a similar flavor profile.
Can I freeze the leftover casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the Potluck Bean Casserole. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake at 350°F until heated through.
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).