If you are searching for a hearty, comforting dish that brings everyone around the table with smiles, look no further than this Reunion Pea Casserole Recipe. Bursting with layers of flavorful ground beef, tender black-eyed peas, creamy cannellini beans, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all wrapped in a warm, flaky crescent roll crust, this casserole creates a perfect family-friendly meal. Each bite offers a cozy blend of spices and cheeses that makes it an absolute crowd-pleaser, ideal for any reunion, celebration, or simple weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients that work together beautifully to create amazing textures and flavors. From savory beef to fresh squash and mellow cheeses, each component adds something special to the overall dish.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a rich, meaty base for the casserole’s hearty flavor.
- 1 (16 oz) can black-eyed peas, drained: Adds a tender, earthy element with a touch of creaminess.
- 1 (16 oz) can cannellini beans, drained: Enhances texture and keeps the casserole moist.
- 1 (4 oz) can chopped green chiles, drained: Brings a subtle kick of heat and brightness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a savory depth that perfectly complements the other spices.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a mild earthiness to round out the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano: Gives a hint of herbaceous complexity.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and sharpness without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the ingredients and balances the dish.
- 2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent rolls: Forms a buttery, flaky crust that holds everything together.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used for sautéing vegetables to add richness.
- 1 large zucchini, sliced: Contributes tender freshness and vibrant color.
- 1 large yellow squash, sliced: Offers mild sweetness and a pleasant texture.
- 1 yellow onion, chopped: Provides aromatic sharpness and sweetness after cooking.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Binds the casserole filling to give it structure.
- 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese: Adds creamy heat and melty texture.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Brings sharpness and golden topping to the casserole.
How to Make Reunion Pea Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Prep Oven
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it’s cooked through and nicely browned. This step develops deep, savory flavors that form the backbone of the casserole. While the beef cooks, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) so it’s ready to go as you assemble the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Combine the Meat with Beans and Spices
After the beef is browned, remove it from the skillet and drain any excess grease to avoid greasiness in the casserole. Transfer the meat to a large bowl, then stir in the black-eyed peas, cannellini beans, chopped green chiles, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, black pepper, and salt. This blend of beans and spices creates a robust, comforting filling that feels like a big warm hug on a plate.
Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Roll Crust
Take the crescent rolls and carefully unroll each can into a rectangle shape. Press both rectangles firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9×13 inch baking dish, creating a uniform crust layer. Bake this crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to get it partially cooked and firm enough to hold the filling without losing its delicious flakiness.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
While the crust is baking, melt the unsalted butter in the skillet and sauté the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, and chopped onion until they become tender and fragrant. This step softens the vegetables, bringing out their natural sweetness and adding lovely layers of texture to the casserole.
Step 5: Assemble the Filling and Fill the Crust
In the large bowl with the meat and bean mixture, incorporate the sautéed vegetables and beaten eggs, stirring gently to evenly combine. Next, fold in the shredded pepper jack cheese and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Pour this flavorful and colorful filling into the prepared crescent roll crust, spreading it out evenly. Finally, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top for a golden, bubbly finish.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Return the assembled casserole to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. During this time, the crust will turn a beautiful golden brown while the cheese bubbles and melts into a gooey, irresistible topping. This is when the Reunion Pea Casserole Recipe really comes alive, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma you won’t be able to resist.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes. This resting period helps the pieces hold their shape when cut, making it easier to serve up perfect squares. Your Reunion Pea Casserole is now ready for everyone to enjoy!
How to Serve Reunion Pea Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add a burst of fresh flavor, consider garnishing your casserole with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for vibrant color. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of avocado on the side can also provide a creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the spicy cheeses and savory filling.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a simple tomato salsa to cut through the richness. For a complete meal, serve alongside warm cornbread or garlic bread, which perfectly complement the Southern-inspired flavors found in this Reunion Pea Casserole Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions, or layer the filling and crust in a trifle-style glass baking dish to showcase the colorful layers. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts or crispy fried onions on top for extra crunch and a delightful surprise with each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Reunion Pea Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This makes it simple to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week, whether for a quick lunch or a comforting second dinner.
Freezing
If you want to prepare the casserole ahead of time, you can freeze it either before baking or after it has cooled. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months, making it an ideal make-ahead option for busy days or unexpected guests.
Reheating
When reheating, thaw frozen casserole overnight in the fridge if frozen. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through and bubbly. For refrigerated leftovers, warming in the oven or microwave works well—just be sure to cover the dish to maintain moisture and avoid drying out the crust.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this Reunion Pea Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and will work just as well, delivering a lighter flavor while still soaking up the spices and blending nicely with the vegetables.
What can I do if I don’t have crescent rolls for the crust?
You can use refrigerated biscuit dough, pie crust, or even puff pastry as an alternative. Each will provide a slightly different texture but still make a delicious base for this casserole.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add extra beans or plant-based meat substitutes. Adding additional vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers can also boost flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this casserole gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, swap the crescent rolls for a gluten-free dough option or a cornbread crust. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, like canned beans and spices, do not contain hidden gluten.
How spicy is the Reunion Pea Casserole Recipe?
This casserole has a mild to moderate kick from the green chiles and pepper jack cheese, but it is very adaptable. You can adjust the heat level by using mild chiles or adding extra spices according to your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Reunion Pea Casserole Recipe is a timeless classic that brings comfort, flavor, and nostalgia to your table. Its inviting blend of savory meat, wholesome beans, fresh vegetables, and cheesy goodness is exactly what makes family and friends gather again and again. I truly encourage you to try this recipe for your next get-together—it’s sure to become one of your favorite crowd-pleasers!
Print
Reunion Pea Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 56 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 16 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
Reunion Pea Casserole is a hearty Southern-inspired dish combining seasoned ground beef, black-eyed peas, cannellini beans, and green chiles with sautéed zucchini, yellow squash, and onions, all layered over a buttery crescent roll crust and topped with a blend of pepper jack and cheddar cheeses. This flavorful casserole is baked to a golden brown, making it perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients
Meat and Beans
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (16 oz) can black-eyed peas, drained
- 1 (16 oz) can cannellini beans, drained
- 1 (4 oz) can chopped green chiles, drained
Spices
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Crust
- 2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent rolls
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Vegetables
- 1 large zucchini, sliced
- 1 large yellow squash, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
Other
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) while the beef is cooking.
- Prepare the beef mixture: Remove the cooked beef from the skillet and drain any excess grease. In a large bowl, combine the beef with the drained black-eyed peas, cannellini beans, chopped green chiles, garlic powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.
- Make the crescent roll crust: Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it into a 9×13 inch baking dish, forming a crust that covers the bottom and sides evenly. Bake this crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to set.
- Sauté the vegetables: While the crust bakes, melt the unsalted butter in the same skillet. Add the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, and chopped onion, cooking until vegetables become tender and slightly caramelized.
- Combine filling and cheese: In a large bowl, mix the beef and bean mixture with the sautéed vegetables, beaten eggs, shredded pepper jack cheese, and 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until thoroughly combined.
- Assemble and bake the casserole: Pour the combined filling into the prebaked crescent roll crust, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake the casserole in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a lighter version.
- Drain the canned beans and chiles well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving helps it set and makes cutting easier.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting compared to pre-shredded options.
- For added spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
