Cheesy Beef and Bean Casserole

Cheesy Beef and Bean Casserole is the kind of comforting, hearty dinner that brings together simple ingredients in one satisfying dish. It combines seasoned ground beef, tender beans, a rich tomato-based sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. Everything is baked together until bubbling and golden, creating a cozy meal that works just as well for a busy weeknight as it does for a casual family dinner.

The beauty of this casserole is how easy it is to customize. You can make it mild or spicy, add extra vegetables, switch up the cheese, or serve it with your favorite toppings. It is filling on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with rice, salad, cornbread, or warm tortillas.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (14–15 ounces) diced tomatoes

• 1 cup tomato sauce

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese

• 1 tablespoon olive oil, if needed

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, optional

Optional Toppings

• Sour cream

• Sliced green onions

• Diced tomatoes

• Jalapeños

• Avocado

• Fresh cilantro

• Crushed tortilla chips

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before starting, drain and rinse the beans thoroughly. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic.

Measure the spices and have the tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste ready beside the stove. Preparing everything ahead makes the cooking process smoother and prevents the beef mixture from sitting too long while you search for ingredients.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for approximately 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks.

Continue cooking until the beef is browned throughout and no longer pink.

If there is a large amount of excess fat in the skillet, carefully drain it. Leave a small amount behind for flavor, if desired.

Step 3: Add the Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion to the browned beef and continue cooking for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

The onion should become soft and slightly translucent.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.

Step 4: Season the Beef

Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.

Stir thoroughly so the spices coat the beef and onions. Cook for about 30 seconds to a minute. Heating the spices briefly helps release their aroma and gives the casserole a deeper flavor.

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