Easy Baked Beans with Ground Beef Recipe | Rcipes Meat
Growing up, the smell of baked beans filled my grandmother’s kitchen. It meant family was coming together. Her homemade baked beans with ground beef were a comfort that united us. Now, I’m sharing this easy recipe to bring those memories to your home.
Baked Beans with Ground Beef is a classic comfort food. It’s great for family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings. The mix of ground beef and sweet, tangy beans makes a meal that everyone loves. It’s perfect for a backyard barbecue or a cozy dinner at home.
Table of Contents
Understanding Southern-Style Baked Beans
Southern-style baked beans have a rich history in American cuisine. These beans are loved for their savory and comforting taste. They simmer in a sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce.
Onions, mustard, and meats like bacon or ground beef add to their unique flavor. This flavor is deeply rooted in Southern culinary traditions.
History of Baked Beans in Southern Cuisine
Baked beans have a long history in the South. They started with Native American cooking methods. As settlers and immigrants came, their versions merged, creating the Southern-style we love today.
Brands like Bush’s Beans have helped keep this comfort food alive. They operate a Visitor Center in Tennessee, celebrating its heritage.
What Makes These Beans Special
The slow-cooked, caramelized nature of Southern-style baked beans is key. The long simmering process makes the beans rich and flavorful. This creates a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting.
Ingredients like brown sugar or molasses add depth to the beans. This sets them apart from simpler versions.
Traditional Ingredients and Variations
The classic recipe uses navy beans, onions, mustard, and meats. Bacon is common, but ground beef or other proteins can also be used. This makes the dish heartier.
Variations include adding bell peppers, chili powder, or maple syrup. These additions give a unique twist to this comfort food.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Baked Beans with Ground Beef Recipe
To make the best baked beans with ground beef, start with the right ingredients. You’ll need ground beef, onion, canned baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. This mix is a classic for a reason.
First, grab 1 lb of lean ground beef. It’s the base of the dish, adding a rich flavor. Next, add 1 cup of chopped onion for extra aroma. For the beans, use a 16 oz can of Bush’s Original Baked Beans. Their flavor is unmatched.
For the beans, you’ll need 1 cup of ketchup, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and spices. These ingredients balance the flavors, making the dish sweet, savory, and tangy.
Want to make it even better? Add 8 slices of crispy bacon, chopped. The smoky bacon adds a salty kick. With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a comforting, flavorful dish.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb |
| Onion, chopped | 1 cup |
| Canned Baked Beans | 3 (16 oz) cans |
| Ketchup | 1 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Bacon, cooked and chopped (optional) | 8 slices |
With these ingredients, you’re set to make a delicious baked beans with ground beef dish. It’s sure to be a hit with your family.
Kitchen Equipment and Preparation Tips
To make the perfect baked beans with ground beef, you need the right tools and a little planning. Start with a large skillet or Dutch oven for cooking the meat and veggies. Then, use a well-greased casserole dish for baking the final dish.
Required Cookware
- A large skillet or Dutch oven for browning the ground beef and sautéing the onions
- A greased 9×13-inch casserole dish for baking the baked beans
Temperature and Timing Guidelines
First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures your baked beans cook evenly. Cook the ground beef and onions until the meat is browned, about 8-10 minutes. After adding the other ingredients, bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Pre-cooking Organization
Before you start cooking, prepare a bit ahead of time. Chop the onions and have all your ingredients measured. This way, you can focus on cooking without any hiccups. You’ll end up with perfectly baked beans.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
The journey to delicious baked beans with ground beef starts with browning the meat. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef (80/20 or 90/10) over medium-high heat. Break it up with a wooden spoon until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the diced onions and cook until they’re translucent, another 3-4 minutes.
Now, mix in the remaining ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the browned beef and onion mixture with two cans of white beans (or 3 cups of cooked beans), ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and your desired seasonings. Stir until the flavors blend well.
Next, put the beanty goodness in a greased 2-quart casserole dish. Bake it uncovered at 350°F for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This ensures the beans are bubbly and heated through. For a quicker version, cook the ground beef separately in an air fryer or on the stove while preparing the bacon and vegetables.
By following these steps, you’ll make a delicious and satisfying batch of Easy Baked Beans with Ground Beef. Enjoy the flavors from browning the meat, mixing the ingredients, and the baking time. Each step adds to the dish’s flavor and texture, making it a comforting treat.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancement Techniques
Getting the sweet and savory flavors just right is key to making delicious baked beans with ground beef. Brown sugar and ketchup add a gentle sweetness. Worcestershire sauce and yellow mustard bring a tangy touch. Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper are crucial for the flavor.
Balancing Sweet and Savory
The sweetness from brown sugar and the savory from Worcestershire sauce blend beautifully. You can tweak the sweetness by adding more brown sugar or ketchup. A bit of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika adds a nice heat, balancing the flavors perfectly.
Spice Combinations
Trying out different spice blends can take your baked beans to the next level. Bayou City all-purpose seasoning adds a Cajun twist. Smoked paprika brings a smoky flavor that complements the meaty taste.
Adjusting Flavors to Taste
After cooking, taste the baked beans and adjust the seasonings if needed. If it’s too sweet, add more Worcestershire sauce or apple cider vinegar. For more sweetness, a bit of extra brown sugar or ketchup works well. Tailoring the seasoning to your taste makes the dish truly satisfying.
“The secret to extraordinary baked beans lies in the perfect harmony of sweet and savory flavors, achieved through a thoughtful blend of spices and seasonings.”
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your baked beans with ground beef leftovers. Follow these simple guidelines to keep them fresh and flavorful.
For leftovers storage, put the baked beans in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for 30-45 minutes. Or, microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.
To freeze the baked beans, use a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. For extra smokiness, heat them on a grill or smoker.
“Proper storage and reheating techniques ensure you can enjoy the fantastic flavors of your baked beans with ground beef for days to come.”
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Options
Baked beans with ground beef are great for many occasions. They pair well with grilled hot dogs or burgers for a summer cookout. They also complement smoked or barbecued meats like ribs, pulled pork, or brisket.
Perfect Side Dishes
- Creamy potato salad
- Fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette
- Buttery cornbread or corn muffins
- Coleslaw with a tangy dressing
Main Course Combinations
- Grilled burgers or smashburgers
- Slow-smoked baby back ribs
- Tender pulled pork sandwiches
- Juicy smoked brisket slices
Presentation Tips
For a fun presentation, serve baked beans in ramekins or small mason jars. This makes it easy for guests to add their favorite toppings. You can also display it on a buffet with other barbecue favorites.
This baked beans recipe is a classic, needing just 11 minutes of prep. It makes about 8 servings and has been loved for over 80 years. It’s perfect for casual gatherings, backyard barbecues, and more.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Make your baked beans with ground beef even better by trying new ingredients and recipes. You can choose leaner meats, add spice, or go meatless. These changes let you make the dish your own, fitting your taste and diet.
For a healthier version, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. These options are lower in fat but still pack a lot of flavor. Want something crispy? Add diced bacon for a smoky twist.
Want to add color and texture? Mix in diced bell peppers in different colors. For a spicy kick, add minced jalapeños or a bit of chili powder.
Follow a vegetarian or vegan diet? No problem. Just skip the ground beef and use meatless crumbles or plant-based proteins. Swap brown sugar for honey or maple syrup for a healthier sweetener.
This recipe is super versatile. You can make more or less, depending on your needs. Try different ingredients and make it your own!
| Ingredient | Substitution | Dietary Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | Ground Turkey, Ground Chicken | Leaner protein options |
| Bacon | None (for vegetarian/vegan) | Meatless, lower-fat |
| Bell Peppers | Different colors (red, yellow, orange) | Adds color and texture |
| Jalapeños | Chili Powder | Spicier version |
| Brown Sugar | Honey, Maple Syrup | Healthier sweeteners |
| Pinto Beans | Cannellini, Navy, Great Northern Beans | Recipe adaptations |
Try these substitutions and recipe changes to make baked beans with ground beef your own. Whether you want to lighten it up, add spice, or make it meatless, there are endless options. Experiment and discover the perfect version for you.
Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations
This easy baked beans with ground beef recipe is not only tasty but also healthy. It combines beans and ground beef for a lot of protein. This makes it a filling and satisfying meal. Each serving has about 546 calories, with a good mix of carbs, proteins, and fats.
The recipe needs 28 ounces of canned baked beans. It uses 80/20 ground beef for great flavor and nutrition. Also, low-sodium beef stock keeps the dish’s sodium low, making it a healthier option.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 546 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 27g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 90mg |
| Sodium | 900mg |
| Potassium | 800mg |
| Fiber | 12g |
| Sugar | 10g |
The dish is rich in vitamins and minerals. Beans add fiber, and ground beef boosts the nutritional value. To lower the nutritional value or protein content, try lean ground turkey or a lower-fat ground beef mix. This recipe is a balanced and satisfying meal for a healthy dietary considerations.
Conclusion
Baked beans with ground beef is a crowd-pleaser that captures Southern comfort food perfectly. It’s great for family dinners or big gatherings. The mix of sweet beans and savory beef is a hit.
This recipe is easy to make and feeds many, making it perfect for cooks of all levels. You can also make it your own by adding your favorite spices. This way, it becomes a favorite dish in your home.
It’s perfect for potlucks or barbecues because it’s hearty and delicious. Your guests will love it so much, they’ll ask for more. So, try out this versatile recipe and enjoy a meal that everyone will love.
