Southern Beef and Beans Casserole

Southern Beef and Beans Casserole Recipe - Made with Ground Beef, Baked Beans, and Cheddar

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Southern Beef and Beans Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines ground beef, baked beans, and a cornbread topping. This casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy night in.

History

This recipe has its roots in Southern cuisine, where casseroles are a popular and traditional dish. The combination of beef, beans, and cornbread is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed by families for generations.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) ground beef
1 can (28 oz or 794 g) Bush's baked beans
0.5 cup (120 ml) chopped green peppers
0.5 cup (120 ml) chopped onion
1 can (6 oz or 170 g) tomato paste
1 package (8.5 oz or 241 g) Jiffy corn muffin mix
0.5 cup (120 ml) shredded cheddar cheese

How to prepare

In a skillet, sauté ground beef, onion, and green peppers until the meat is browned.
Drain excess grease.
Combine the meat mixture, Bush's Baked Beans, and tomato paste.
Spoon the mixture into a lightly greased 8-inch square baking dish.
Prepare the muffin mix according to the package directions.
Spread the muffin mix evenly over the bean mixture.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes, sprinkle with cheese, and continue baking for 5 minutes more, or until the cheese melts.
Enjoy.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or sausage to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
Use different varieties of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, for a twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain excess grease from the ground beef to prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy.

- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite seasonings or vegetables to the meat mixture.

- For a crispy cornbread topping, bake the casserole uncovered for the last 5 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the ground beef, onion, and peppers until the meat is browned to develop flavor.

- Bake the casserole at 350°F (177°C) to ensure that the cornbread topping is cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter version of this casserole.

- Use your favorite brand of baked beans or make your own from scratch.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This casserole pairs well with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 400 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 18 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 25 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of iron, vitamin C, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy and wheat allergens.

Summary

This recipe is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Southern Beef and Beans Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With a hearty meat and bean mixture topped with a crispy cornbread topping, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the countryside of the South. My mama had invited over some of her friends for a potluck dinner, and I remember watching in awe as they all shared their favorite dishes.

One dish in particular caught my eye - a hearty and flavorful Southern Beef and Beans Casserole. I had never tasted anything quite like it before, and I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make it myself.

I approached one of the ladies who had brought the casserole and asked her for the recipe. She smiled kindly and told me that it was a family recipe passed down through generations, but she was more than happy to share it with me.

I eagerly scribbled down the ingredients and instructions on a scrap of paper, and as soon as I got home, I set to work in the kitchen. I carefully followed each step, adding in the ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices, and letting it all simmer together in a casserole dish.

The aroma that filled the kitchen as it baked in the oven was simply divine. When it was finally ready, I took a bite and was transported back to that potluck dinner, surrounded by good friends and delicious food.

From that day on, Southern Beef and Beans Casserole became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for a cozy weeknight dinner at home. Each time I made it, it brought back memories of that first taste and the kindness of the woman who shared the recipe with me.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks and additions to the original recipe, adding in a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat, or topping it with a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor. But at its core, it remains a comforting and satisfying dish that never fails to bring a smile to my face.

As I sit here now, preparing to make Southern Beef and Beans Casserole for my grandchildren, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary journey that led me to this recipe. It is a reminder of the joy that can be found in sharing food with others, and the power of a good meal to bring people together.

I hope that as my grandchildren take their first bites of this casserole, they too will be transported back to this moment, surrounded by love, laughter, and the delicious flavors of the South. And who knows, maybe one day they will pass this recipe down to their own children, carrying on the tradition for generations to come.