Beef Bean Cowboy Casserole

This hearty beef and bean cowboy casserole is the perfect campfire meal that brings together the smoky flavors of bacon, the richness of ground beef, and the gooey goodness of melted cheese. It’s a satisfying dish that works beautifully for feeding a crowd while capturing the spirit of outdoor cooking. Whether grilled or baked in the oven, this casserole brings a comforting mix of textures and tastes that always hits the spot.

I discovered this recipe during a weekend camping trip, and it quickly became a go-to for us. Now, it’s a regular request when friends come over for barbecue nights.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: two pounds, opt for 80/20 lean to keep it juicy without too much fat
• Small onion, diced: adds subtle sweetness and texture to the beef mixture
• Salt, pepper, and garlic powder: about a teaspoon of each. Essential for seasoning and boosting overall flavor
• Maple or brown sugar bacon: one pound. Delivers smoky sweetness that complements the beans and beef beautifully
• Two cans 28 ounces each of BUSH’S Maple Cured Bacon Baked Beans: these add a sweet yet savory layer and reduce prep time since the beans are already flavored
• Four cups shredded mozzarella cheese: melts smoothly to bind the layers and adds creamy richness
• Sliced green onions, optional: fresh garnish that adds a hint of sharpness and color contrast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion:

Cook ground beef in a large frying pan over medium heat until fully browned. Add diced onion and continue cooking until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Season with salt pepper and garlic powder. Drain excess grease carefully so the casserole doesn’t become too oily. Set aside.

Partially Cook the Bacon:

Using the same pan, lay the bacon strips and cook on each side for about five minutes. The goal is to have it halfway done so it finishes cooking in the casserole without drying out. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Transfer to paper towels to drain extra grease.

Build the Layers:

Take a 9 by 13-inch aluminum baking pan and layer half the cooked ground beef evenly across the bottom. Add one can of the maple cured bacon baked beans on top spreading them evenly. Sprinkle two cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the beans. Arrange half the partially cooked bacon slices evenly on the cheese layer.

Repeat the Sequence:

Add the remaining ground beef, followed by the second can of baked beans. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top and finish with the remaining bacon slices.

Cook the Casserole:

Cover the entire dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place on a preheated grill at 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for about thirty minutes. Alternatively, bake in a conventional oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for the same time. The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and the dish is bubbly all around.

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The maple cured bacon baked beans carry a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory ground beef and cheese layers. I love how the cheese melts into the beans creating a creamy, smoky bite in every spoonful—always reminds me of family camping trips when everyone gathers around the fire to dig in.

Storage Tips

Cool the casserole completely before storing it in an airtight container to keep freshness. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes well in portions for future meals. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and heat before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have maple cured bacon baked beans you can use classic baked beans or even chili beans for a spicier twist. Ground turkey or chicken can substitute the beef if you want a leaner option, though the flavor will be a bit milder. Try cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese if mozzarella is not on hand for a different but still melty cheese experience.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or coleslaw to add freshness and crunch. Cornbread or warm crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up the cheesy bean juices. A side of grilled vegetables complements the smoky notes of the casserole well, making the meal balanced and hearty.

Cultural Context

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Cowboy casseroles reflect the spirit of American frontier cooking where simplicity and hearty ingredients were key. This recipe in particular echoes the communal meals shared around campfires by ranch hands and travelers who needed filling, flavorful food prepared with minimal fuss. Combining beans meat and cheese is a timeless approach that brings people together through shared comfort food.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I cook this dish in an oven instead of the grill?

Yes, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the assembled casserole covered with foil for about 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

→ What type of bacon works best for this casserole?

Maple or brown sugar cured bacon adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory beef and beans perfectly.

→ Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese?

Sure, mild cheddar or Monterey Jack also work well and melt smoothly for a creamy texture.

→ Should the ground beef be drained before layering?

Yes, after browning and seasoning the ground beef with onion and spices, drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy.

→ Are the baked beans seasoned further in this dish?

The canned baked beans bring built-in sweetness and seasoning, so no additional spices are necessary when layering.