Saturday Night Special
Saturday Night Special is a hearty, comforting casserole with savory ground beef, sweet baked beans, and a smoky bacon topping. The layers of flavors and simple ingredients make it perfect for casual gatherings or a satisfying weeknight dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a hot skillet and drain the excess fat.
- Add the drained pork and beans, canned tomatoes, and salt to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Pour half of the mixture into a baking dish.
- Add a layer of thinly sliced onion over the mixture.
- Cover with the remaining beef and bean mixture.
- Top with strips of bacon and sprinkle with brown sugar.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour until bubbly and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture. If you don’t have bacon on hand, crumbled turkey bacon or diced ham can work well as a substitute. To amp up the dish, you could also mix in some bell peppers or corn. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover canned goods from your pantry.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. If you're looking for a fun twist, consider topping it with shredded cheese during the last few minutes of baking to create a cheesy crust.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saturday Night Special contains roughly 815 calories, with 8g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2069mg per serving (90% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, especially if using leaner meats.
What can I serve with this dish?
This casserole is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. You could serve it with cornbread for a comforting meal or a fresh coleslaw for a crunchy contrast. Additionally, it goes great with baked potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to cook 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).