Baked Beans with Ground Beef

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot like a baked beans with ground beef recipe. Whether you’re hosting a casual BBQ, looking for a cozy weeknight meal, or craving something hearty and filling, this baked beans with ground beef recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Packed with flavor and super easy to make, this dish combines savory ground beef, sweet and smoky beans, and a variety of seasonings that’ll keep everyone coming back for more.

Why Baked Beans and Ground Beef Are a Perfect Pair

If you’ve ever tried baked beans with ground beef, you know exactly why this combo works so well. Baked beans are already a classic comfort food, but when you add seasoned ground beef, it takes the dish to a whole new level. The richness of the beef perfectly complements the sweet and smoky beans, and the combination results in a hearty, filling meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

One of the best things about this dish is how simple it is to make, yet how big the payoff is. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the best part is that you can customize it to suit your tastes. Want it spicier? Add more chili powder. Prefer it sweeter? A little extra brown sugar does the trick. It’s all about balancing the flavors to your liking.

But don’t just take our word for it this baked beans with ground beef recipe has been a hit for years! From family dinners to potlucks and barbecues, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to disappear in no time.

Ingredients for Baked Beans with Ground Beef

Here’s a handy list of ingredients for your baked beans with ground beef recipe. Make sure to have everything on hand before you get started!

Ingredients:

Optional Add-Ins:

• Jalapeños (for a spicy kick)
• Bell Peppers (chopped, for a veggie boost)
• Bacon (for added richness)
• Ground Turkey (for a leaner version)

How to Make Baked Beans with Ground Beef: Step-by-Step Instructions

So, you’ve got your ingredients ready, and now it’s time to start cooking. Don’t worry, this recipe isn’t complicated it’s all about layering flavors, and it comes together in no time. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish in about 30 minutes.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet or a Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and fully cooked. Season the beef with a pinch of salt, pepper, and chili powder while it’s cooking. This will give the beef a nice flavor base.

Once browned, drain any excess fat from the beef (unless you’re using a lean cut, in which case you can skip this step). Set the beef aside for now.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and soft. The aroma of onions and garlic cooking together is irresistible!

Step 3: Combine the Ground Beef and Beans

Once the onions and garlic are ready, return the browned ground beef to the pan. Stir everything together so that the onions, garlic, and beef are well mixed. Then, it’s time to add the baked beans. Pour in the two cans of beans (including the sauce they’re in), and give it all a good stir.

Step 4: Add the Sauces and Sweeteners

Now, let’s add the flavor! Stir in the BBQ sauce, ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar. These ingredients will create that signature tangy-sweet taste that makes this dish so irresistible. Stir until everything is combined and the beef and beans are evenly coated.

Step 5: Season to Taste

This is where you can get creative and make the dish your own. Add the chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like your beans spicier, toss in a chopped jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce. If you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more brown sugar. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.

Step 6: Simmer and Let the Flavors Develop

Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pan. During this time, the flavors will deepen and the sauce will thicken. You’ll know it’s ready when the beans are heated through and the sauce has a nice, rich consistency.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once your baked beans with ground beef are ready, it’s time to dish it up! Serve it hot with your favorite sides, like cornbread, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables. This meal is filling and comforting, perfect for a cozy dinner or a BBQ with friends.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Baked Beans with Ground Beef

To make sure your baked beans with ground beef come out just right, here are a few tips:

• Adjust the Sweetness: You can control how sweet or savory your beans are by adjusting the amount of brown sugar. If you prefer a more savory taste, reduce the sugar and add more BBQ sauce for tanginess.
• Add Bacon: For an extra layer of flavor, cook some crispy bacon and crumble it into the mixture. This adds a smoky richness that pairs perfectly with the beans and beef.
• Make It Ahead: Baked beans with ground beef actually taste better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for easy meals all week long.
• Veggie Boost: Want to sneak in more veggies? Try adding chopped bell peppers or carrots when you sauté the onions and garlic for added nutrition and flavor.

What to Serve with Baked Beans and Ground Beef

Wondering what sides will pair perfectly with your baked beans with ground beef? You can’t go wrong with these options:

1. Cornbread

A warm, buttery slice of cornbread is a classic pairing with baked beans. The sweet and savory combination is perfect, and the cornbread will soak up all the delicious sauce from the beans.

2. Coleslaw

A light, refreshing coleslaw balances the richness of the beans and beef. The crunchiness of the cabbage and the tang of the dressing make for a great contrast to the warm, hearty beans.

3. Grilled Veggies

Grilled veggies, like zucchini, corn on the cob, or bell peppers, are a great way to add some color and freshness to your plate. They’re easy to prepare and complement the flavors of the beans perfectly.

4. Rice or Potatoes

For a more filling meal, serve your baked beans with ground beef over rice or alongside mashed potatoes. Both options will soak up the sauce and make your meal even more satisfying.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Recipe for Every Home Cook

In conclusion, baked beans with ground beef is one of those dishes that effortlessly combines simplicity with big flavor. It’s perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, feeding your family on a busy weeknight, or preparing a dish for a potluck. Not only is it quick and easy to make, but it’s also highly customizable making it a go-to recipe that you can tweak to suit your personal preferences.

Moreover, with just a handful of ingredients, you can create a hearty, satisfying meal that will keep everyone coming back for more. The sweet and smoky flavors of the beans combined with the savory richness of the ground beef create a flavor-packed dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And let’s not forget the versatility of this recipe—you can add your own personal touch with ingredients like bacon, jalapeños, or bell peppers to make it even more exciting.

So, next time you’re in the mood for comfort food that’s easy, delicious, and filling, give this baked beans with ground beef recipe a try. Trust me, you won’t regret it! Whether served with cornbread, coleslaw, or grilled veggies, this baked beans with ground beef recipe is bound to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. What are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking today with this simple and tasty baked beans with ground beef recipe

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great option if you want a leaner dish. It will still work beautifully with the beans and seasonings.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish actually tastes better the next day. Simply store the leftovers in an airtight container and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy. It’ll keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.

3. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Yes! Feel free to throw in some bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the beans.

4. How can I make this spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, try adding a chopped jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also use spicy BBQ sauce if you want to kick things up a notch.

5. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this recipe. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove.

Final Thoughts: A Recipe You’ll Keep Coming Back To

Ultimately, baked beans with ground beef is one of those dishes that you can always count on when you need something hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe is incredibly versatile and can easily be customized to fit your tastes. Want it spicier? Add more heat. Prefer it sweeter? A little extra brown sugar will do the trick. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes it such a great recipe to keep in your rotation.

In addition, this dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can make a big batch ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and have leftovers for days making it a real time-saver on busy weeks. Plus, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.

Whether you serve it with cornbread, a side of slaw, or grilled veggies, baked beans with ground beef pairs perfectly with so many sides, adding even more convenience and variety to your meals. So, give it a try, and I’m sure you’ll see why this dish has become a favorite for so many people. Don’t forget to get creative and make it your own.

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