three bean casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best three bean casserole recipe

I’ve been making three bean casserole for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish is a staple in many American households, and I’m not sure where it originated, but I do know that it’s a great way to get some fiber and protein into our meals. The combination of beans, ground beef, and tomatoes is a classic one that never goes out of style.

I like to use canned beans to make the dish quicker, but you can also cook dried beans from scratch if you prefer. One of the key techniques to this recipe is browning the ground beef before adding it to the casserole. This gives the dish a rich flavor that’s hard to beat.

The casserole is easy to make and can be served as a main course or as a side dish. It’s also a great way to use up leftover vegetables and bread crumbs. My kids love helping me mix everything together in a big bowl before pouring it into a 9×13 inch baking dish.

We always have fun making this recipe together. The end result is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. I’ve made this recipe for potlucks, family gatherings, and even just for a quick weeknight dinner.

It’s always a crowd-pleaser. The best part is that it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and spices. My family loves when I add some diced bell peppers or chopped fresh parsley on top of the casserole before baking it in the oven.

Hearty Three Bean Casserole

4.7 from 1655 votes

A comforting and protein-packed casserole featuring a trio of beans in a savory tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
3Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
4Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5Add the drained kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans to the skillet.
6Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and the tomato sauce.
7Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
8Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
9Transfer the bean mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
10Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
11Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly browned.
12Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 16g

📝Notes

For a smoky flavor, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced, along with the spices. This casserole can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated, then baked when ready.

Watch Video Of How Hearty Three Bean Casserole Works

This three bean casserole recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a quick weeknight dinner.

It’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and spices, and it’s perfect for using up leftover vegetables and bread crumbs.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Three Bean Casserole

Q: What type of beans are best for this recipe?

Canned kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans work well in this recipe. You can also use a combination of all three for added texture and flavor.

Q: Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can cook dried beans from scratch and use them in this recipe. Simply soak them overnight and then cook them until they’re tender.

Q: How long does it take to make this recipe?

This recipe is quick and easy to make, and it takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, but it’s best served fresh from the oven.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains ground beef, so it’s not suitable for vegetarians. However, you can easily substitute the ground beef with vegetarian alternatives like tofu or tempeh.

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