Easy Baked Beans with Hamburger Recipe for Dinner
Growing up, our Sunday dinners were special. The smell of baked beans and ground beef filled our home. It was a cozy, satisfying meal.
Thinking back, I remember the taste of that rich, flavorful mix. It filled our plates and nourished us. This easy baked beans with hamburger recipe is perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
This recipe combines the comfort of baked beans with the protein of ground beef. It’s satisfying and versatile. It’s great for backyard barbecues or budget-friendly meals.
It’s quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. This dish is sure to impress.
Table of Contents
Why This Hearty Dish Will Become Your Family Favorite
Baked beans with hamburger is a hit for family dinners. It’s easy to make and loved by all. It’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and family nights. Its affordable ingredients and quick prep make it a staple in your kitchen.
Perfect for Potlucks and Gatherings
This bean and beef casserole is great for big groups. It feeds up to 10 people, perfect for family reunions or block parties. Just multiply the ingredients for bigger crowds, and everyone will love it.
Budget-Friendly Meal Option
Don’t let a tight budget mean less flavor. This recipe uses affordable ingredients like canned beans and ground beef. It’s a filling meal that’s easy on your wallet, with just 1 pound of ground beef and pantry staples.
Time-Saving Convenience
Busy weeknights don’t need complicated recipes. This hamburger bean bake is quick, ready in just 21 minutes. Its simple steps and canned beans make it a time-saver, so you can enjoy a homemade meal fast.
Essential Ingredients for Baked Beans with Hamburger
Making the perfect baked beans and burger starts with the right ingredients. You’ll need ground beef, bacon, canned baked beans, onion, and green bell pepper. Also, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and spices are key.
For this recipe, use about 1 pound of lean ground beef. You can add more for a meatier taste. Crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor. Choose high-quality Bush’s Original canned baked beans for the best base.
To mix the flavors, use onion, green bell pepper, ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Add mustard for a tangy touch. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to enhance the taste.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound (can be increased) |
| Canned baked beans | 3 cans (15 ounces each) |
| Bacon, cooked and crumbled | 1/4 cup |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Green bell pepper, diced | 1 |
| Ketchup | 1/2 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
With these ingredients, you can make a delicious baked beans and burger dish. Adjust the amounts to fit your taste and the number of people you’re serving.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect hamburger bean pot or beef and beans recipe, you need some basic kitchen tools. Let’s look at what you’ll need:
Recommended Cookware
You’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven for this dish. It’s perfect for cooking the ground beef and sautéing the veggies. Also, a casserole dish or 13″x9″ baking pan is key for the final baking step.
Optional Kitchen Gadgets
- A meat chopper or ground beef crumbler helps break up the ground beef as it cooks.
- Measuring cups and spoons are crucial for measuring the ingredients right.
- For a hands-off method, a slow cooker or Instant Pot can be used instead.
- An air fryer can cook the ground beef separately, saving time and effort.
With these tools and equipment, you’re ready to make a tasty hamburger bean pot or beef and beans recipe. Your family will love it.
How to Choose the Best Beans for Your Recipe
Choosing the right beans is key to a great baked beans casserole with ground beef. The recipe uses Bush’s Original Baked Beans, but you can try other beans too. This lets you find the perfect taste for you.
Avoid beans that are too sweet. The recipe already has brown sugar and ketchup for sweetness. Go for beans that are savory or a bit tangy. Pinto beans or kidney beans are good choices. They add a nice texture and less sweetness.
- For a thicker, more robust consistency, consider draining two cans of beans before adding them to the ground beef mixture.
- If you prefer a looser, saucier texture, drain only one can of beans, allowing the flavorful juices to mingle with the other ingredients.
This ground beef recipes is very versatile. You can try different beans and ways to prepare them. This will help you find the perfect mix for your family. The result will be a delicious baked beans casserole that everyone will love.
“The secret to a truly delicious baked beans casserole is finding the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.”
| Bean Type | Flavor Profile | Recommended Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Bush’s Original Baked Beans | Sweet and savory | Drain 1-2 cans |
| Pinto Beans | Earthy and slightly nutty | Drain 2 cans |
| Kidney Beans | Creamy and subtly spicy | Drain 2 cans |
Preparing the Ground Beef Mixture
To make a tasty hamburger baked beans dish, start by preparing the ground beef. Cook the 80/20 ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any extra fat to avoid a greasy dish.
Seasoning Tips for Perfect Flavor
While the beef cooks, add a pinch of salt and black pepper to boost the flavor. For even more taste, cook the beef in the same pan after frying 10 oz of bacon. This way, the beef soaks up the bacon fat, making it more flavorful for your bean and beef casserole.
Cooking Temperature Guidelines
The best cooking temperature for this hamburger baked beans recipe is 350°F (175°C). Whether you’re cooking on the stovetop or in the oven, this temperature ensures the beef is cooked right. It also helps the flavors mix well together.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio) |
| Bacon | 10 oz, no sugar added |
| Onion | 1 cup, chopped |
| Beans | 2 cans (15 oz each) of white beans or 3 cups cooked beans |
| Seasoning | Salt, black pepper, BBQ seasoning, optional additions (green pepper, cayenne pepper, apple cider vinegar) |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Get ready to make a hearty and flavorful batch of baked beans with hamburger. It’s a dish that will make your family and friends want more. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time.
- Start by cooking 2.5 ounces of precooked bacon until crispy. Once done, set the bacon aside.
- In the same pan, brown 1 pound of ground beef. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Add 1 chopped onion and 1 diced bell pepper to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in three 15-ounce cans of pork and beans. Stir in the cooked bacon, along with 1-1/2 cups of brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and your desired seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes, or until the beans are bubbly and heated through. For a thicker consistency, simmer the beans uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
With these simple steps, you’ll have a delicious ground beef recipes dish. It’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks and gatherings. Enjoy the savory, sweet, and smoky flavors in every bite.
“These baked beans with hamburger are a real crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender beans, juicy ground beef, and perfectly seasoned sauce is simply irresistible.”
Secret Tips for Extra Flavorful Results
To make your hamburger bean bake or beef and beans recipe even better, try these secret tips. Experiment with different seasonings and adjust the cooking time. This will bring out a rich flavor that everyone will love.
Seasoning Combinations
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a unique taste. These spices add a subtle heat and smoky flavor that goes well with the beef and beans. Also, try different mustards like Dijon or whole-grain for a tangy twist.
Cooking Time Adjustments
The longer you simmer your hamburger bean bake or beef and beans recipe, the richer the flavors get. Adjust the cooking time to get the consistency you want. A longer bake makes the dish thicker and more robust, while a shorter time makes it saucier and vibrant.
For a smoky taste, grill or smoke the dish for the last 15-20 minutes. This adds a char and depth of flavor that everyone will love.
Before the final bake, taste and adjust the seasonings. A little tweak can make a big difference in the flavor of your hamburger bean bake or beef and beans recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 93% lean |
| Pork and Beans | 3 cans (16 oz each) |
| Ketchup | 1/2 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 1/2 cup, packed |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 1 Tablespoon |
| Yellow Mustard | 2 Tablespoons |
Variations and Customization Options
This baked beans and burger recipe is very versatile. You can change it to fit your family’s taste and dietary needs. Try using turkey or pork instead of beef for a different flavor. Adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños adds crunch and heat.
For a healthier option, use lean ground beef and less sugar. You can also make it vegetarian by using plant-based protein or extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini. Try using kidney or black beans for a unique twist.
Feel adventurous? Add a splash of bourbon or a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a special flavor. The options are endless to make this recipe your own.
| Variation | Ingredient Substitutions |
|---|---|
| Lean Ground Beef | Use 90% lean ground beef to reduce fat and calories |
| Turkey or Pork | Substitute ground turkey or pork for a different flavor |
| Vegetarian | Replace meat with plant-based protein or additional veggies |
| Different Beans | Try kidney, black, or pinto beans for variety |
| Flavor Twists | Add a splash of bourbon or smoked paprika for unique taste |
No matter your choice, this recipe will be a hit. It’s perfect for a potluck, casual get-together, or a weeknight dinner.
“This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser! The combination of baked beans and ground beef is simply irresistible.” – Jane Doe, Food Blogger
Make-Ahead and Storage Guidelines
This casserole, with its mix of baked beans and ground beef, is a hit with families. You can make it ahead and store it for easy reheating. Here’s how to keep your baked beans with hamburger recipe fresh and tasty.
Freezing Instructions
This casserole freezes well. Cool it down completely, then put it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Methods
To reheat, you have a few choices. For the oven, warm it at 350°F for 20-30 minutes. Or, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
With these tips, you can enjoy this baked beans casserole anytime. It’s perfect for big gatherings or a quick dinner. This hamburger baked beans dish will be a favorite in your home.
Perfect Side Dish Pairings
When you serve baked beans with hamburger or bean and beef casserole, pick the right sides. These dishes go great with classic barbecue and picnic sides.
For a barbecue vibe, pair baked beans with hamburger with coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled corn. These sides offer cool, creamy textures and tangy flavors. They balance the beans’ richness.
Want to add more to the meal? Try grilled meats like hot dogs, burgers, or BBQ chicken. A fresh green salad or steamed veggies also work well with bean and beef casserole.
Don’t overlook carbs! Cornbread or buttery dinner rolls are great for soaking up bean sauce. For outdoor events, iced tea or lemonade adds a refreshing touch.
| Side Dish | Why it Works |
|---|---|
| Coleslaw | The cool, creamy texture and tangy flavors balance the richness of the beans. |
| Potato Salad | The starchiness and creaminess of the potato salad complements the heartiness of the beans. |
| Corn on the Cob | The sweet, grilled corn adds a nice contrast to the savory beans. |
| Green Salad | The fresh greens and vegetables provide a light, refreshing counterpoint to the robust bean dish. |
| Cornbread | The cornbread’s slightly sweet and crumbly texture is perfect for soaking up the bean sauce. |
| Dinner Rolls | Warm, fluffy rolls are ideal for mopping up every last bit of the flavorful bean mixture. |
Choosing the right sides is key for baked beans with hamburger or bean and beef casserole. The right pairings make this dish a summertime favorite at your table.
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
When making the perfect hamburger bean pot or ground beef recipes, avoid common mistakes. Don’t overcook the ground beef, as it can become dry. Also, drain excess fat to avoid greasy beans.
Be careful not to add too much salt. Canned beans and bacon already have a lot of sodium. Taste and adjust the seasoning before baking to get the flavor right.
Don’t overcrowd the baking dish. This can cause uneven cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for everything to cook well. Lastly, slow cooking is key. It lets the flavors mix and the beans to cook perfectly.
- Avoid overcooking the ground beef, which can result in a dry texture.
- Don’t skip draining excess fat from the meat to prevent greasy beans.
- Be cautious with salt addition, as canned beans and bacon already contain sodium.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking dish, which can lead to uneven cooking.
- Don’t rush the baking process, as slow cooking allows flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before the final bake to ensure balanced flavors.
By avoiding these mistakes, your hamburger bean pot or ground beef recipes will always be a hit. They’ll be delicious and satisfying every time.
“Slow and steady cooking allows the flavors to meld and the beans to reach their full potential.”
Nutritional Information and Benefits
This hearty baked beans with hamburger recipe is packed with nutrients. It has about 12g of protein per serving, making it a filling meal. It also has around 5g of fiber, which helps with digestion and blood sugar control.
Protein Content
The protein in this dish comes from both the ground beef and the beans. This mix of animal and plant-based protein is great for muscle growth, weight control, or just staying healthy.
Dietary Considerations
If you’re watching carbs or calories, like those with diabetes, consider the glycemic index. Baked beans have a medium index of 48, causing a slow rise in blood sugar. You can still enjoy this baked beans with hamburger recipe by controlling portion sizes or using sugar substitutes. Be aware of the sodium, as canned beans and seasonings can increase it.