Savor the Comfort of This Hearty Three-Bean Casserole Recipe with Bacon & Beef

There's something incredibly satisfying about a hearty casserole, and this Three-Bean Casserole is no exception. Packed with flavorful bacon, beef, and a medley of beans, it offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes. The savory richness of the bacon perfectly complements the tangy ketchup and brown sugar, creating a dish that’s both comforting and irresistible. I found this amazing recipe from Insanely Good Recipes and couldn’t wait to share it with you!

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

Growing up, casseroles were always a staple at family gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. This one, in particular, stands out with its unique combination of sweet and smoky flavors. The trio of beans adds not just heartiness but also a delightful contrast in texture. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, this casserole is sure to please the crowd.

A Fun Fact: Did you know casseroles date back to the early 18th century? The name “casserole” refers to the large deep dish used in cooking it. While today’s casseroles are diverse and creative, this Three-Bean Casserole has all the hallmarks of classic American comfort food.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound bacon, chopped
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can pork and beans
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can butter beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp dry mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Cook the beef: In the same skillet, add the ground beef and chopped onions. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking up the beef, until the meat is browned and the onions are tender. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pork and beans, kidney beans, butter beans, ketchup, brown sugar, dry mustard, Worcestershire sauce, the cooked beef mixture, and 2/3 of the cooked bacon. Stir until everything is well combined.
5. Assemble the casserole: Pour the bean and meat mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining crispy bacon.
6. Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
7. Let it rest: Allow the casserole to stand for about 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Tips:

• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the bacon and beef with plant-based options for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Lower the Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar to 1/4 cup.
• Add Heat: For a little spice, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño with the beef.

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or cornbread on the side. It's perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or even meal prep as it reheats wonderfully. The combination of beans, beef, and bacon makes for a deeply satisfying, filling meal.

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