Elevate Your Casserole Game: Trisha Yearwood’s Baked Bean Casserole
If you’re on the hunt for a hearty and flavorful dish that will please a crowd, look no further than Trisha Yearwood’s Baked Bean Casserole. This mouthwatering recipe combines savory ground beef, tender beans, and a medley of bold spices and sauces, all baked to perfection for a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving some comfort food, this casserole is guaranteed to hit the spot. Join us as we delve into the step-by-step process of creating this delicious dish that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, cored, seeded, and finely chopped
- 2 (16 oz each) cans pork and beans
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons brown sugar
- 6 to 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Brown Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess grease.
3. Mix Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork and beans, barbecue sauce, ketchup, spicy brown mustard, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir until well combined.
4. Add Beef Mixture:
- Add the cooked ground beef mixture to the bean mixture and stir until evenly incorporated.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
6. Top with Bacon:
- Sprinkle the chopped cooked bacon evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and heated through.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions, if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and bacon for a vegetarian-friendly option. Increase the quantity of vegetables or add cooked lentils or black beans for extra protein.
- Spicy Kick: For an extra kick of heat, add chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the bean mixture.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Absolutely! Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe without sacrificing flavor.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with this casserole? A: This baked bean casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as coleslaw, cornbread, baked potatoes, or a crisp green salad.
Q: Can I adjust the sweetness of the dish? A: Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste preferences. You can also experiment with different types of barbecue sauce to find the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make the following substitutions:
- Cauliflower Rice: Replace the pork and beans with cooked cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Sugar-Free Sauce: Choose sugar-free barbecue sauce and ketchup to reduce the carb content of the dish.
- Turkey Bacon: Substitute turkey bacon for the regular bacon to lower the fat content.
In conclusion, Trisha Yearwood’s Baked Bean Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its savory blend of ground beef, flavorful beans, and zesty sauces, this casserole is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re serving it up at a family gathering or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. So gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of this classic comfort food.