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Loaded Ranch Baked Bean Casserole

loaded ranch baked bean casserole - featured image

A quick and comforting casserole that transforms humble baked beans with ranch seasoning, smoky bacon, and melted cheddar cheese into a satisfying dinner perfect for busy nights or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (28-ounce) can baked beans
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (or turkey bacon as substitute)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup diced green bell pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • Optional toppings: sliced green onions or fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
  3. In the same skillet, remove most bacon fat leaving about 1 tablespoon. Sauté onion, garlic, and green bell pepper until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
  4. In a medium bowl, combine baked beans (with liquid), ranch seasoning mix, and melted butter. Stir well.
  5. Add sautéed vegetables and crumbled bacon to the bean mixture and stir to combine.
  6. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
  7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
  9. Remove from oven and let sit 5 minutes before serving.
  10. Garnish with sliced green onions or fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

If cheese browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil. Assemble ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking, adding extra bake time if baking cold. For vegetarian version, omit bacon and add smoked paprika or sautéed mushrooms. Use gluten-free ranch seasoning and beans for gluten-free diet. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheat best in oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked bean casserole, ranch seasoning, comfort food, easy dinner, bacon casserole, cheesy casserole, potluck recipe