Description
Warm, sticky, and a little bit sweet, Trisha Yearwood’s baked bean casserole is a one-dish crowd-pleaser perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey/pork/plant-based substitute)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28 oz) cans baked beans (or 4 cups total)
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1/3–1/2 cup packed brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard (or Dijon for a sharper note)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus a little extra for topping, optional)
- 1 1/2 cups crushed buttery crackers (Ritz) or panko/cornflakes
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: 4 strips cooked bacon, chopped; 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper; splash of hot sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon.
- Cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Reduce heat to medium. Stir in the baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix until combined and warmed through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning — add more brown sugar for sweetness or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
- Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the top.
- Combine crushed crackers with the melted butter in a small bowl. Stir until moistened.
- Scatter the crumb mixture over the cheese layer. If using bacon, sprinkle it over before or after the crumbs.
- Bake uncovered for 25–35 minutes, until bubbling and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For vegetarian, omit meat and add sautéed mushrooms or lentils for texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American