Tasty Baked Beans with Ground Beef Recipe
The smell of beans and ground beef cooking brings back happy memories. It reminds me of family times and BBQs. This baked beans with ground beef recipe is more than a side dish. It’s a tradition, a taste of home, and a treat for the senses.
This baked beans with ground beef recipe is perfect for any occasion. It’s great for a potluck, a family dinner, or a summer BBQ. The mix of savory ground beef, tangy beans, and sweet sauce is irresistible. It’s sure to satisfy your cravings and make everyone happy.
Table of Contents
What are Southern Baked Beans?
Southern baked beans are a beloved dish in the American South. They are made with navy beans cooked in a sweet, tangy sauce. The recipe often includes brown sugar, molasses, mustard, and sometimes bacon or ground beef.
A classic Southern dish made with navy beans, savory flavors, and meat
The secret to Southern baked beans is the navy beans. Their creamy texture and mild flavor are perfect for bold seasonings. The beans simmer for hours, blending flavors and thickening the sauce.
Southern baked beans are known for their sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Brown sugar, molasses, or maple syrup add sweetness. Mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and spice add depth. Meat like bacon or ground beef makes it hearty.
These beans are a comfort food that brings warmth and hospitality. They are a classic recipe that delights the senses and takes you to the South.
Ingredients for Tasty Baked Beans with Ground Beef
To make the perfect baked beans with ground beef, you’ll need a few key ingredients. The recipe calls for 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef, making 8 servings. You’ll also need two 16-ounce cans of pork and beans, along with a flavorful blend of spices and sauces.
Start with 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce, 1/2 cup of ketchup, and 2 tablespoons each of spicy brown mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Add 4 tablespoons of brown sugar for sweetness. Don’t forget the 6 to 8 slices of bacon, which add a savory, smoky flavor.
To round out the flavors, you’ll need 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, along with diced green bell pepper and yellow onion. The baked beans with ground beef recipe can be cooked in a 9×13 baking dish. Bake at 350°F for about 55 minutes, with the first 40-45 minutes covered in foil and the final 10 minutes uncovered.
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings, such as Creole mustard, Soul Food Seasoning, or BBQ seasoning, to customize the flavor. And if you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey can be substituted for the ground beef.
With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying baked beans with ground beef dish. Your family and friends will love it. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions
How to make delicious baked beans with beef
Making tasty baked beans with ground beef is simple. Just follow these easy steps to create a dish that everyone will love.
- Begin by cooking chopped bacon in a big pot or Dutch oven until it’s crispy. Then, drain the extra bacon fat and save it for later.
- Next, sauté the onion and bell pepper in the bacon fat until they’re soft, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Now, add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take 5-8 minutes.
- Then, mix in the brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
- Finally, add the canned baked beans and let it all simmer for 30-45 minutes. Stir it every now and then until the sauce thickens and the flavors mix well.
The secret to great baked beans with ground beef is letting the flavors mix well. The long simmering time lets the sweet, savory, and smoky tastes blend together perfectly.
With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can make a delicious baked beans with beef dish. It’s sure to be a hit with your family. Enjoy!
Baked Beans with Ground Beef Recipe
Add savory ground beef to your baked beans for a hearty meal. This baked beans with ground beef recipe is great for gatherings or as a side. It’s easy to make at home with simple steps.
This recipe makes 16 cups of beans, enough for 18 people as a side. It uses 1 pound of lean ground beef, 3 cans of navy beans, and a mix of seasonings. The flavors are sweet, savory, and slightly spicy.
- Start by cooking 7 slices of bacon until crisp, then crumble and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté 1 pound of lean ground beef until browned and cooked through.
- Add diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the pan, and sauté until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the crumbled bacon, 3 cans of navy beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, taco seasoning, and hot sauce.
- Simmer the mixture for 1 hour and 40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
The baked beans with ground beef recipe is a mix of textures and flavors. The ground beef adds protein, while the beans are fiber-rich. The sweet, tangy, and spicy sauce brings it all together for a comforting dish.
Serve this recipe for baked beans with beef as a main dish or side. Pair it with cornbread, coleslaw, or other barbecue sides. Enjoy the rich flavors of this homemade baked beans with ground beef.
Adjusting Flavors to Your Taste
Preparing tasty baked beans with ground beef is all about adjusting the flavors to your personal preference. Different canned baked beans have different sweetness and tomato tastes. It’s key to tweak the recipe to match your taste.
First, taste the baked bean mix after the initial cooking. If it’s too sweet, cut down the brown sugar. For a stronger tomato taste, add more ketchup. Feel free to personalize the baked beans with ground beef to your taste.
To customize the baked beans with ground beef, play with the seasoning. Add more salt and black pepper for a bolder taste. This small change can greatly improve the dish’s flavor.
| Ingredient | Adjustment | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Brown Sugar | Increase or decrease | Adjust sweetness |
| Ketchup | Increase or decrease | Adjust tomato flavor |
| Salt and Pepper | Increase | Enhance seasoning |
By adjusting the baked beans with beef recipe to your liking, you make a dish that meets your cravings. It’s okay to try different flavors until you find the perfect mix. This way, you’ll create a dish that everyone will love.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
Making the perfect baked beans with ground beef needs some insider tips. To save time, cook the ground beef ahead and add it to the beans. You can also use pre-cooked bacon to skip a step. For the right consistency, simmer the beans uncovered to thicken the sauce.
Shortcuts and Useful Advice
For a quick fix, make this recipe in the slow cooker. Just mix all the ingredients and let it cook on low for 4-6 hours. This keeps the beans warm for parties or potlucks. Using canned pork and beans also saves prep time.
Season the ground beef well with salt and pepper for extra flavor. This flavor complements the sweet and tangy beans. Adjust the sweetness or acidity to your liking by changing the brown sugar and mustard amounts.
| Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Cook ground beef separately | Saves time |
| Use pre-cooked bacon | Skips a step |
| Simmer uncovered at the end | Thickens the sauce |
| Make in the slow cooker | Keeps beans warm for serving |
| Use canned pork and beans | Cuts down on prep time |
| Season ground beef well | Enhances overall flavor |
| Adjust sweetness and acidity | Customizes to your taste |
By using these tips for making baked beans with ground beef, tricks for baked beans with beef, and advice for perfect baked beans with ground beef, you’ll make a dish everyone will love. It’s full of homemade flavor.
Scaling the Recipe Up or Down
This tasty baked beans with ground beef recipe makes a big batch, great for big groups. It’s easy to scale the recipe up or down to fit your needs.
For a bigger crowd, you can up the beans to 84 ounces. Just adjust the other ingredients to keep the flavors right. Or, halve the recipe for a smaller group.
| Ingredient | Original Recipe (Serves 8-10) | Scaled Up (Serves 12-15) | Scaled Down (Serves 4-6) |
|---|---|---|---|
| White Beans | 2 (15 oz) cans | 3 (15 oz) cans | 1 (15 oz) can |
| Ground Beef | 1 lb | 1.5 lbs | 0.5 lb |
| Onion | 1 medium | 1 large | 1 small |
| Peppers | 1 each: poblano, red bell | 2 each: poblano, red bell | 1 small: poblano, red bell |
| Ketchup | 1 cup | 1.5 cups | 0.5 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 1/4 cup | 1/3 cup | 2 tbsp |
With this scaling guide, you can easily adjust the baked beans with ground beef. This way, you can enjoy it with any group size.
Serving Suggestions
These hearty baked beans with ground beef are perfect for main dishes or sides at any event. They go great with grilled meats, hot dogs, cornbread, coleslaw, and more. You can also find links to dishes like grilled chicken, BLT salad, and cherry crisp to round out your meal.
Delicious Pairings for Your Baked Beans Dish
Here are some tasty options to serve with your baked beans:
- Grilled hot dogs or burgers
- Barbecued chicken or ribs
- Cornbread or cornbread muffins
- Creamy coleslaw
- Roasted or grilled vegetables
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Crisp green salad or BLT salad
- Fruit cobbler or cherry crisp for dessert
The baked beans’ savory and slightly sweet flavors pair well with many summer dishes. They’re a hit at any cookout or backyard party.
| Dish | Serving Size | Calories | Carbs | Protein | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baked Beans with Ground Beef | 1 cup (236 g) | 236 kcal | 24 g | 12 g | 12 g |
| Grilled Chicken Breast | 4 oz (113 g) | 165 kcal | 0 g | 31 g | 3 g |
| Cornbread Muffin | 1 muffin (57 g) | 163 kcal | 25 g | 4 g | 6 g |
| Coleslaw | 1/2 cup (77 g) | 68 kcal | 8 g | 1 g | 4 g |
This table shows the nutritional info for the baked beans and some sides. It helps plan a balanced and filling meal.
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
Planning ahead is key for make ahead baked beans with ground beef. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Just assemble the ingredients, bake, and store for later.
To prepare ahead, follow the instructions for baked beans with ground beef. Let it cool completely after baking. Then, put the beans in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
When you’re ready to serve, reheat the leftover baked beans with beef in the oven or on the stovetop. This way, you have a homemade meal ready at any time.
For longer storage, freeze the baked beans with ground beef for up to 3 months. Cool it completely, then put it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Thaw the frozen baked beans with ground beef in the fridge overnight before reheating.
With these options, you can always have baked beans with ground beef ready. Enjoy the convenience of preparing this tasty recipe in advance. Then, reheat and serve whenever you want.
Tasty Variations and Add-Ins
The classic baked beans with ground beef recipe is a hit. But, you can make it even better by adding your own twist. Try new ingredients or swap out some parts to match your taste.
Customize Your Baked Beans with Beef
Think about adding some tasty extras to your baked beans. Crumbled bacon gives a smoky flavor, while diced bell peppers add color and sweetness. For a spicy touch, add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a healthier choice.
Don’t be afraid to play with different sauces and spices. Try using barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or soy sauce for a new flavor. Adjust the sweetness with brown sugar or maple syrup to your liking.
| Variations | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Bacon and Bell Pepper | 1/2 pound diced bacon, 1 diced bell pepper |
| Smoky and Spicy | 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper |
| Turkey or Chicken | 1 pound ground turkey or chicken |
| Barbecue Twist | 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce |
There are countless ways to make your baked beans with ground beef unique. Don’t be shy to try new ingredients and flavors. Make it your own and enjoy every bite.
The History of Baked Beans
Baked beans have a rich history, starting with Native American tribes. They became a favorite in New England and the American South. This dish is slow-cooked beans in a sweet and savory sauce.
In the Colonial era, Boston baked beans became famous. They used molasses and salt pork for flavor. Maine baked beans, found in logging camps, used yellow-eye beans.
As baked beans grew in popularity, different regions added their own twist. In Canada, Quebec used maple syrup and pork, while Newfoundland added toutons. North Carolina’s version is sweet and meaty, with navy beans and vinegar-based barbecue sauce.
| Regional Baked Bean Variations | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Kansas City Baked Beans | Sweet and thick sauce with molasses, ketchup, and brown sugar, often paired with brisket or bacon |
| Memphis Baked Beans | Smoky flavors and diverse recipes, some featuring pulled pork or jalapeños, others with secret recipes |
| New Orleans Baked Beans | Savory and pork-forward, using up to three types of pork and a flavorful sauce with spices like cayenne pepper and garlic |
| Tex-Mex Baked Beans | Bold and savory, using pinto beans and spices like chili powder, cumin, and chipotle pepper |
The story of baked beans shows their lasting appeal and adaptability. From Native American beginnings to today, this dish has brought joy to many. It’s a comfort food that continues to delight Americans across generations.
Health Benefits of Baked Beans
Baked beans, especially with ground beef, are very healthy. They are full of protein, fiber, and minerals. This makes them a great choice for meals and gatherings.
Nutritional Advantages of Baked Beans
Baked beans are full of good stuff. They have about 19 grams of protein per serving. The beans also have 17 grams of fiber per cup, which is good for your digestion and keeps you full.
They also have iron and potassium, which are important for your body. Iron helps carry oxygen, and potassium helps your blood pressure. Adding ground beef makes the dish even healthier, giving you a balanced meal.
| Nutrient | 1 Cup of Baked Beans | 1 Cup of Cooked Black Beans |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 536 | 227 |
| Carbohydrates | 98g | 41g |
| Dietary Fiber | 17g | 15g |
| Protein | 19g | 15g |
| Total Fat | 9g | 0.9g |
| Sodium | 331mg | 2mg |
| Potassium | 739mg | 611mg |
| Iron | 4.6mg | 3.6mg |
While canned baked beans are easy to find, they can have a lot of sodium. To avoid too much sodium, try making your own baked beans with lower-sodium ingredients.
Leftover Baked Bean Recipes
Don’t throw away leftover baked beans with ground beef! There are many tasty ways to use them. You can top hot dogs or burgers, mix them into soups, or add them to chili. These beans can turn into many delicious dishes.
Mix leftover baked beans with ground beef into macaroni and cheese for a protein boost. They also make a great filling for baked potatoes or a topping for nachos. These ideas make for a comforting meal.
For something different, add leftover baked beans with beef to a breakfast scramble or frittata. They go well with eggs, cheese, and veggies. You can even mix them into pancake or waffle batter for a savory twist.
Using leftover baked beans with ground beef in different ways can lead to a tasty meal. Try new flavor combinations to find your favorite dish.
| Recipe | Ingredients | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Baked Bean and Beef Stuffed Potatoes | Leftover baked beans with ground beef, baked potatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream | 30 minutes |
| Baked Bean and Beef Chili | Leftover baked beans with ground beef, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, chili powder, cumin | 45 minutes |
| Baked Bean and Beef Empanadas | Leftover baked beans with ground beef, pre-made pie crust or empanada dough, egg wash | 1 hour |
There are endless ways to use leftover baked beans with ground beef. Get creative and enjoy these tasty recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions
There are many questions about the tasty baked beans with ground beef recipe. Let’s answer some of the most common ones. This will help you make this delicious dish perfectly.
Can I use a different type of bean instead of navy beans?
Yes, you can try different beans in this recipe. Pinto, kidney, or a mix of beans work well. Just remember, cooking time might change based on the bean type.
How do I make this in the slow cooker?
To make it in a slow cooker, brown the ground beef and onions first. Then, put everything in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Wait until the beans are tender and the flavors blend.
Can I omit the bacon or use a different meat?
Yes, you can skip the bacon or use another meat. Try diced ham, ground turkey, or crumbled sausage. Adjust the seasonings to match your new meat choice.
How spicy will this dish be?
You can adjust the spice level to your liking. For a milder taste, use less or no chili powder. For more heat, add cayenne pepper or use spicier ground beef.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make it vegetarian. Omit the ground beef and bacon. Use sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or tofu instead. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
What sides pair well with baked beans and ground beef?
Baked beans with ground beef go great with many sides. Try cornbread, coleslaw, grilled veggies, or a green salad. The savory flavors of the beans complement a variety of dishes.
Conclusion
This baked beans with ground beef recipe is a tasty and filling dish great for big groups. It combines savory beef, sweet and tangy sauce, and tender beans. This mix makes a satisfying side or main course that everyone will love.
It’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or family dinners. The recipe is easy to follow, and you can make it your own by adding your favorite flavors. Plus, you can prepare it ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for any occasion.
If you’re craving a classic Southern-style baked bean dish or something heartier with ground beef, this recipe is for you. It’s easy to make and lets you customize the flavors to your liking. You can also store it for later, making it a great option for any time you want to enjoy it.
So, if you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress, try this baked beans with ground beef recipe. Its delicious mix of flavors will make it a new favorite in your household, one you’ll keep coming back to.