A hearty and flavorful casserole combining beans, beef, and a tangy sauce, perfect for a comforting meal.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
Ensure the dish is well-greased to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef evenly for consistent cooking.
Add the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper to the saucepan and sauté until softened.
Cook the vegetables until they are tender but not overly soft for the best texture.
Stir in the barbecue sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
Smooth the top of the mixture for even cooking.
Sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces over the top of the casserole.
Ensure the bacon is evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Covering the dish helps retain moisture during baking.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to crisp up the top.
This step gives the casserole a nice, golden finish.
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Resting helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.