Savory Baked Beans with Ground Beef

Ingredients

Protein & Aromatics

1 lb (450 g) ground beef

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

Beans

1 can (28 oz / 800 g) baked beans in tomato sauce

1 can (15 oz / 425 g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz / 425 g) pinto beans, drained and rinsed

Sauce & Seasonings

1 cup (250 ml) barbecue sauce

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)

½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, adds depth and smokiness)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Topping

1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese — for a melted, cheesy finish

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready once the casserole is assembled.

2. Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are soft.

Drain off any excess grease to prevent the dish from becoming oily.

3. Add the Aromatics

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant and lightly toasted.

4. Build the Bean Mixture

Add the following directly into the skillet:

Mix well and let everything simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Transfer to a Baking Dish

Pour the bean and beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

6. Bake Until Bubbly

Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until hot, thickened, and bubbling around the edges.

7. Optional Cheesy Topping

If you’d like a cheesy finish, sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking to let it melt into a gooey, golden layer.

8. Serve

Serve warm on its own or pair it with cornbread, biscuits, or a scoop of rice for a hearty, comforting meal.