Trisha Yearwood’s baked bean casserole is always a dependable option when I want something hearty and homey.
The sweetness of the brown sugar paired with the smoky bacon is one of the things I’ll rave about (yep, this is me raving now!).
Make sure to use thick-cut bacon if you can—it adds incredible texture and a more robust flavor.
The beans simmer in a savory sauce that balances sweetness with just enough tang to keep things interesting.
This dish is a favorite for gatherings or a no-fuss dinner, and it’s a recipe I’ve gone back to many times!
How to Make Trisha Yearwood Baked Bean Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs Ground Beef
- 1 small Onion (finely chopped)
- 1 Bell Pepper (cored, seeded, chopped)
- 2 cans Pork and Beans (16 oz. each)
- 4 slices Bacon
- 1/2 cup Ketchup
- 1/3 cup Brown Sugar
- 1 tbsp Yellow Mustard
- 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large skillet, fry the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
Once done, remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
Step 2:
In the same skillet, using the remaining bacon drippings, cook the chopped onion and bell pepper until softened.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
Drain any excess fat.
Step 3:
In a large mixing bowl, combine pork and beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Mix everything well.
Step 4:
Crumble the cooked bacon and add it to your mixture along with the cooked beef, onion, and bell pepper.
Stir until all ingredients are well integrated.
Step 5:
Transfer your mixture to a baking dish.
Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes.
The top should be crisp and bubbly when ready.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Add a Cheesy Twist
Consider sprinkling shredded cheese on top of your casserole before baking for some added delicious creaminess!
Make It Spicy
If you love a touch of heat, throw in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while mixing the ingredients.
Go Vegetarian
Omit the ground beef and bacon, and increase the quantity of vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option.
Prepare in Advance
You can assemble this dish a day ahead and store it in the fridge, baking it right before it’s time to serve.
Pair with a Side
Serve this casserole with a crisp green salad or cornbread for a balanced meal that everyone will love.
What to Serve with Trisha Yearwood Baked Bean Casserole
Classic Cornbread
You can’t go wrong with serving cornbread alongside Trisha Yearwood’s Baked Bean Casserole.
The sweetness of the cornbread perfectly balances the savory flavors in the casserole.
Warm, buttery cornbread straight from the oven can complement the hearty, fulfilling qualities of the dish.
Creamy Coleslaw
Adding a side of creamy coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch and lightness to the meal.
It contrasts nicely with the warmth and depth of the casserole’s baked bean flavor.
Coleslaw can also add a pop of color to your plate, making the meal more visually appealing.
Roasted Vegetables
For something a little different, consider serving roasted vegetables.
Lightly seasoned carrots, squash, and bell peppers can add a nutritious touch while harmonizing with the casserole’s flavor profile.
You might find the roasted veggies add a layer of complexity to your dinner that’s both unexpected and enjoyable.
Caesar Salad
Caesar salad offers a crisp and refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the baked bean casserole.
A well-balanced salad with crunchy croutons, fresh romaine, and that signature creamy dressing adds texture and taste.
This combo keeps your meal from being too heavy while keeping things interesting.
Grilled Pineapple
A slightly unconventional choice could be grilled pineapple.
The sweetness of the pineapple and its caramelized edges can add a awesome contrast to the casserole.
Pineapple’s vibrant flavor and juicy texture could surprise and enchant your taste experience.
Variations and Substitutions
Make it Cheesy!
If you’re craving something indulgent, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese over the casserole before baking.
The gooey cheese adds a wonderful twist to the dish!
Spice Things Up
For those who love a spicy kick in their meals, try adding 1-2 chopped jalapeños.
A dash of hot sauce can also do the trick to bring some heat!
Vegetarian Twist
Swap the ground beef with your favorite plant-based meat substitute to make it vegetarian-friendly.
You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor.
Gluten-Free Option
Ensure your recipe is gluten-free by checking that your ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and any other condiments are certified gluten-free.
This allows everyone to enjoy the meal without worry!
Sweet and Smoky Flair
Mix in a tablespoon of liquid smoke with a dash of honey or brown sugar.
These additions result in a sweet and smoky dimension that’s a little different but very tasty.
How to Store Leftover Baked Bean Casserole
Use Airtight Containers
You should always store leftover baked bean casserole in airtight containers to keep it fresh in the fridge.
This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps any funky odors from mingling with the casserole’s flavors.
Refrigeration
If you’re planning to enjoy your leftovers soon, it’s best to keep them in the refrigerator.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days before you need to consider freezing.
Freezing for Later
For longer storage, place the casserole in freezer-safe containers.
This way, you can freeze it for up to three months, and it’s still good when you thaw it to enjoy another time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid Underseasoning
You might think the pork and beans provide all the flavor, but they really don’t.
Feel free to add extra spices like garlic powder, paprika, or chili flakes for a richer taste.
Incorrect Ingredient Ratios
It’s easy to throw in more meat or beans, but this dish relies on balance.
Stick to the quantities in the recipe to maintain its hearty, satisfying texture.
If using substitutions, check their flavor profile to make sure it’s complementary.
Skipping Pre-Cooking Steps
Don’t forget to thoroughly brown your ground beef, onions, and bell peppers before combining.
This essential step helps build flavor and improves the overall outcome of your casserole.
Failing to do so can result in a mushy texture which affects the layers of flavor in the dish.
Trisha Yearwood Baked Bean Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs Ground Beef
- 1 small Onion finely chopped
- 1 Bell Pepper cored, seeded, chopped
- 2 cans Pork and Beans 16 oz. each
- 4 slices Bacon
- 1/2 cup Ketchup
- 1/3 cup Brown Sugar
- 1 tbsp Yellow Mustard
- 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a large skillet, fry the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Once done, remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- In the same skillet, using the remaining bacon drippings, cook the chopped onion and bell pepper until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Drain any excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pork and beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything well.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and add it to your mixture along with the cooked beef, onion, and bell pepper.
- Stir until all ingredients are well integrated.
- Transfer your mixture to a baking dish.
- Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes.
- The top should be crisp and bubbly when ready.