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Easy Cheesy Baked Bean Casserole

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A quick and comforting casserole featuring baked beans and sharp cheddar cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) baked beans (preferably Bush’s original)
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) tomato sauce or ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs (optional, can substitute with crushed crackers)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent and lightly golden. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the two cans of baked beans (undrained), sautéed onion and garlic, tomato sauce, yellow mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine.
  4. Fold in 1 ½ cups (150 g) of shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture.
  5. Pour the bean and cheese mixture into a greased 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) casserole dish and spread evenly.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup (50 g) of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. If using, add breadcrumbs now for a crunchy crust.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Tent loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
  8. Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use baked beans that are not overly saucy to avoid a runny casserole. Sauté onions and garlic slowly to develop sweetness without burning. Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for best flavor and melt. For vegan adaptation, use plant-based cheese, vegan butter, and vegan baked beans. Breadcrumbs can be omitted or replaced with gluten-free crumbs for gluten-free diets. The casserole can be frozen before baking; add 10-15 minutes to baking time when baking from frozen.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked bean casserole, cheesy casserole, comfort food, easy casserole, weeknight dinner, baked beans, cheddar cheese

Find it online: https://tessierecipes.com/easy-cheesy-baked-bean-casserole-recipe-for-perfect-comfort-meals/