Cheesy Ground Beef and Bean Casserole

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Bean Casserole is a hearty, comforting dinner made with seasoned ground beef, tender beans, a rich savory sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. It comes together with simple ingredients and bakes in one dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

The ground beef adds plenty of savory flavor, while the beans make the casserole extra filling. A layer of melted cheddar and Monterey Jack on top brings everything together into an easy, satisfying meal that is simple to portion and reheat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy one-dish family dinner
• Loaded with ground beef and beans
• Plenty of melted cheese
• Simple pantry-friendly ingredients
• Great for busy weeknights
• Perfect for leftovers and meal prep
• Easy to customize

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans pinto beans, 15 ounces each, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes, 14.5 ounces, drained
• 1 can tomato sauce, 8 ounces
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or green onions, optional

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Bean Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or a small amount of butter.

Step 2: Cook the Onion

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the diced onion and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet.

Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon or spatula.

Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains.

Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 4: Add the Garlic and Seasonings

Add the minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

Step 5: Add the Sauce Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.

Mix until the ground beef is evenly coated.

Step 6: Add the Beans

Fold in the drained and rinsed pinto beans.

Simmer the mixture over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes so the flavors can combine.

Step 7: Transfer to the Baking Dish

Spoon the beef and bean mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Spread it into an even layer.

Step 8: Add the Cheese

Combine the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.

Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the entire casserole.

Step 9: Bake

Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 10: Broil for Extra Color

If desired, switch the oven to broil for the final 1 to 2 minutes to lightly brown the cheese.

Watch closely so the cheese does not burn.

Step 11: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes.

Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions if desired, then serve warm.

Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Bean Casserole

• Drain excess beef grease: Too much grease can make the casserole heavy.
• Rinse the beans: This removes excess sodium and keeps the sauce cleaner.
• Simmer before baking: A short simmer helps the seasonings blend into the beef and beans.
• Use freshly shredded cheese: It usually melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
• Do not overbake: The filling is already cooked, so bake only until hot and bubbly.
• Let it rest before serving: This helps the casserole set slightly and makes serving easier.

Easy Variations

Mexican-Style Beef and Bean Casserole

Add 1 cup corn, diced green chiles, and taco seasoning. Serve with sour cream, salsa, and chopped cilantro.

Spicy Version

Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or Pepper Jack cheese.

Black Bean Version

Replace the pinto beans with black beans or use one can of each.

Extra Cheesy Version

Add another cup of shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese.

Rice and Beef Casserole

Fold in 2 cups cooked rice before transferring the mixture to the baking dish.

Vegetable Beef and Bean Casserole

Add diced bell peppers, corn, zucchini, or mushrooms to the beef mixture.

What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef and Bean Casserole

• Green salad
• Cornbread
• Steamed rice
• Roasted vegetables
• Garlic bread
• Coleslaw
• Avocado slices
• Fresh tomato salad

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can assemble this casserole up to 24 hours ahead.

Prepare the beef and bean mixture, transfer it to the baking dish, let it cool, then cover tightly and refrigerate.

Add the shredded cheese before baking or immediately before refrigerating.

If baking directly from the refrigerator, add about 5 to 10 extra minutes to the baking time.

Storage

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Cool the casserole completely, then transfer portions to freezer-safe containers.

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot throughout.

For larger portions, cover and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Rest Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: About 55 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: American
• Calories: Approximately 470 calories per serving

Frequently Asked Questions

What beans work best in this casserole?

Pinto beans work very well because they are creamy and mild, but black beans, kidney beans, or cannellini beans can also be used.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes. Ground turkey or ground chicken can replace the beef. Cook it fully before assembling the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble it up to one day ahead, cover, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Can I add rice?

Yes. Cooked rice can be mixed into the beef and bean filling to make the casserole even more filling.

What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack provide a good combination of flavor and melt. Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or mozzarella can also be used.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes. Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or Pepper Jack cheese.

Why is my casserole watery?

Make sure the diced tomatoes are well drained and allow the beef mixture to simmer briefly before baking. Excess liquid can make the casserole loose.

How do I know when it is done?

The casserole is ready when the filling is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Bean Casserole is an easy, filling meal made with seasoned beef, creamy beans, savory sauce, and a generous layer of melted cheese.

It is simple enough for busy weeknights, hearty enough for family dinners, and easy to prepare ahead for potlucks or meal prep. Serve it warm with cornbread, rice, salad, or vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner.