Can I use different types of beans in this casserole?

Absolutely! Black beans, pinto beans, or navy beans make excellent substitutions. Just maintain the same total quantity of beans and remember to drain and rinse any beans that aren't specifically pork and beans.

How can I make this casserole healthier?

Use turkey bacon and lean ground turkey instead of regular bacon and beef. You can also reduce the brown sugar by half and add a diced bell pepper for extra vegetables. Serve with a large side salad to balance the meal.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook the bacon and beef mixture as directed, then combine everything in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The texture will be slightly saucier than the oven version.

My family doesn't like things too sweet - how can I adjust this recipe?

Simply reduce the brown sugar to 2-3 tablespoons and increase the Worcestershire sauce to 2 teaspoons to maintain flavor depth while reducing sweetness. You can also add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar for tanginess.

Three Bean Casserole Recipe

Description

This Three Bean Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining smoky bacon, savory ground beef, and three types of beans in a sweet and tangy sauce. Baked until bubbling and topped with crisp bacon, it’s a hearty and flavorful main course perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Meat

1/2 pound bacon, chopped
1 pound ground beef

Vegetables & Aromatics

1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Beans

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

Sauces & Seasonings

1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tsp dry mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) so it’s ready for baking as you prepare the casserole ingredients.
Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Carefully remove all but 2 tablespoons of bacon fat from the skillet for added flavor.
Cook Beef and Onions: Add the ground beef and chopped onions to the same skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking the beef up as it cooks, until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are softened. Drain off any excess fat.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the pork and beans, kidney beans, butter beans, ketchup, brown sugar, dry mustard, Worcestershire sauce, the cooked beef mixture, and about two-thirds of the bacon. Stir everything well to ensure even distribution of ingredients and flavors.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the bean and meat mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining bacon evenly across the top for extra crunch and smoky flavor.
Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Bake for 45 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the bacon on top is crisp.
Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes for easier serving.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter version.
Add a pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.
This casserole can be made ahead and reheated; it tastes even better the next day.
Great for potlucks as it serves a crowd and keeps warm nicely.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
Calories: 430
Sugar: 19g
Sodium: 950mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 49g
Fiber: 9g
Protein: 21g
Cholesterol: 50mg