Wiener Bean Casserole
A hearty, savory casserole combining baked beans, hot dogs, and ground beef, perfect for a quick family meal with a touch of sweetness and smoky flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain the excess fat.
- In a large casserole dish, combine the baked beans, cooked ground beef, hot dog pieces, ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar.
- Mix everything well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Cover the casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Heat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the optional chopped onion with the ground beef. If you're looking to reduce fat, you can substitute turkey or chicken sausage for the hot dogs. Adjust the brown sugar based on your sweetness preference; a touch of maple syrup can also work well. This dish is a great way to use leftovers or find inspiration in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Wiener Bean Casserole with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Leon Style Ribs for a hearty feast. For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños or serving with pickles on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wiener Bean Casserole contains roughly 780 calories, with 13g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1086mg per serving (47% 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 the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well as substitutes. For a vegetarian version, you can use a plant-based meat alternative or simply increase the amount of beans and vegetables for added texture and flavor.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake 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).