Savory Baked Beans with Ground Beef

If comfort food brings back memories of cozy kitchens, this baked beans and ground beef casserole will hit the spot. Hearty, smoky, and full of flavor, it’s the kind of dish that makes everyone gather around the table.

Ingredients:

• Ground beef – 1 lb (450 g)
• Onion, chopped – 1 medium
• Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
• Baked beans in tomato sauce – 1 can (28 oz / 800 g)
• Kidney beans, drained and rinsed – 1 can (15 oz / 425 g)
• Pinto beans, drained and rinsed – 1 can (15 oz / 425 g)
• Barbecue sauce – 1 cup (250 ml)
• Brown sugar – 2 tbsp
• Worcestershire sauce – 1 tbsp
• Mustard (yellow or Dijon) – 1 tsp
• Smoked paprika (optional) – ½ tsp
• Salt & black pepper – to taste
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional) – 1 cup (100 g)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven
   • Set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Beef
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion. Drain any excess fat.
   • Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.
3. Make the Sauce
   • Stir in baked beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
   • Simmer for 5 minutes to let flavors meld.
4. Assemble the Casserole
   • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
5. Bake
   • Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until hot and bubbling.
   • Optional: During the last 10 minutes, sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top for a melty, golden finish.
6. Serve
   • Enjoy warm with cornbread, biscuits, or over rice.