Baked beans with ground beef is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or BBQs. Combining tender ground beef with sweet and smoky baked beans creates a comforting meal that’s both filling and satisfying. If you’ve ever wondered how to make baked beans with ground beef, this guide will walk you through a simple, foolproof recipe along with tips to enhance the flavor and cooking methods to suit your kitchen style.
Why Choose Baked Beans with Ground Beef?
Adding ground beef to baked beans transforms a classic side into a complete meal. The beef adds protein and a savory depth that balances the sweetness of the beans and sauce. This dish is versatile, easy to prepare, and loved by kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
– ½ onion, finely diced
– 3 cans (22 oz each) baked beans
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– ¾ tablespoon yellow mustard
– ½ tablespoon brown sugar
– ½ tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for a little kick)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Crumbled bacon for extra smokiness
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink. Break it up as it cooks to avoid large clumps. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced green bell pepper and onion over medium heat until the peppers are tender and the onions turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This adds a fresh, slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
3. Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked ground beef to the pan with the vegetables. Add the baked beans, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, and hot sauce. Stir everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer or Bake
You have several options to finish cooking:
– Stovetop: Cover the pan and simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
– Oven: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish or Dutch oven. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
– Slow Cooker: Place all ingredients in a crockpot and cook on high for 1 hour or low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, let the baked beans with ground beef sit for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Tips to Make Your Baked Beans with Ground Beef Even Better
– Add Bacon: For a smoky twist, cook some crumbled bacon first and use the bacon grease to sauté your vegetables. Then add the bacon back into the beans before cooking.
– Adjust Sweetness and Heat: Feel free to tweak the brown sugar and hot sauce amounts to suit your taste. Some like it sweeter, others prefer a bit more spice.
– Prevent Sticking: When cooking on the stove or slow cooker, stir occasionally to avoid the beans sticking to the bottom and burning.
– Scale the Recipe: If you want a smaller batch, use two 16-ounce cans of baked beans and halve the other ingredients accordingly.
– Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days and freeze nicely for up to 3 months.
Variations to Try
– Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or cayenne pepper for a bold flavor.
– Vegetarian Version: Skip the beef and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a meatless option.
– Different Beans: Mix in kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans for variety in texture and taste.
Making baked beans with ground beef is a straightforward process that yields a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you prefer the stovetop, oven, or slow cooker method, this recipe is flexible and forgiving. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Enjoy your hearty, savory baked beans with ground beef — a true comfort food classic!