Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brown Ground Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using).
Add Beans and Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the ground beef and vegetables. Stir in the baked beans and kidney beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Add Topping (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the casserole with crumbled cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, or crispy fried onions.
Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. If using cheese, bake until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations:
Bean Variations: Feel free to use different types of beans, such as pinto beans, navy beans, or great northern beans.
Spice Level: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
Smoked Flavor: Add a tablespoon of liquid smoke to the sauce for an even smokier flavor.
Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your liking, depending on your preference for sweetness.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Baked Beans & Ground Beef Casserole! It’s great served with cornbread, coleslaw, or a simple salad.
