This baked three bean casserole is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans. It’s perfect for a family meal or as a side dish for gatherings.
The recipe is simple and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for busy days. You can easily customize it with your favorite spices or additional vegetables.
Hearty Ingredients for a Comforting Meal
The baked three bean casserole is a delightful combination of kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans, creating a nutritious base for this dish. Each type of bean brings its unique flavor and texture, contributing to a satisfying meal.
Alongside the beans, the addition of corn and diced tomatoes enhances the dish’s color and taste. The sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the savory notes from the tomatoes, making every bite a treat.
Preparation Made Simple
This casserole is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil, which adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
Once the aromatics are ready, combine them with the beans, corn, and tomatoes in a large bowl. Mixing these ingredients ensures that every spoonful is packed with flavor.
Layering for Flavor
Transferring the mixture to a greased casserole dish is the next step. Spreading it evenly allows for even cooking and ensures that every part of the casserole is equally delicious.
Don’t forget to top it off with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. This not only adds richness but also creates a beautifully bubbly and golden crust as it bakes.
Baking to Perfection
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake it in a preheated oven. This initial covered baking helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
After 30 minutes, removing the foil allows the cheese to brown and bubble, creating a tempting topping that is hard to resist. The total baking time is about 45 minutes, resulting in a warm and inviting dish.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This brief resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.
Pair the casserole with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, providing a hearty option that everyone will enjoy.
Nutrition and Comfort
This baked three bean casserole not only satisfies the taste buds but also offers a nutritious profile. With a good balance of protein and fiber from the beans, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
Each serving contains around 250 calories, making it a filling yet manageable option for those mindful of their intake. Enjoying this dish is a great way to indulge in comfort food without compromising on nutrition.
Easy Baked Three Bean Casserole Recipe
This casserole features a blend of three types of beans baked in a savory tomato sauce, topped with cheese for added richness. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, corn, sautéed onion and garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the bean mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread it evenly.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy hot!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g