Baked beans with ground beef is the perfect dish for anyone who enjoys hearty, flavorful meals that are easy to prepare. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, hosting a barbecue, or simply craving a savory comfort food, this dish delivers on taste and convenience. The combination of tender ground beef and sweet, smoky beans creates a balanced meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.
In this post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about preparing baked beans with ground beef, from the ingredients to the cooking methods. We’ll also share tips on how to make this dish your own by adding your favorite seasonings or ingredients. Let’s get started!
What is Baked Beans with Ground Beef?
Baked beans with ground beef is a classic comfort food that typically includes a rich, tomato-based sauce, beans, and ground beef. It is often seasoned with a variety of spices such as garlic, onion, and Worcestershire sauce, giving it a savory and slightly sweet flavor. This dish can be served as a main course, a side dish, or even as a topping for baked potatoes or rice.
The best part about baked beans with ground beef is its versatility. You can make it spicy, smoky, or tangy, depending on the seasonings you choose. Additionally, you can customize the dish to suit dietary preferences or restrictions by swapping out certain ingredients or adding vegetables for extra nutrients.
Why You Should Try Baked Beans with Ground Beef
1. Easy to Make
If you’re looking for an easy meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, baked beans with ground beef is the answer. It’s a one-pot dish, so you won’t have to deal with multiple pots and pans. Simply cook the ground beef, mix the ingredients, and bake for a delicious, flavorful meal.
2. Budget-Friendly
Ground beef and canned beans are both affordable ingredients, making baked beans with ground beef an excellent budget-friendly option. With just a few basic pantry items and some ground beef, you can create a filling meal that’s sure to satisfy the whole family.
3. Nutritious and Filling
This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. The ground beef provides a great source of protein, while the beans are rich in fiber and nutrients like iron and potassium. Together, they make a balanced meal that will keep you full and energized throughout the day.
4. Versatile and Customizable
As mentioned earlier, baked beans with ground beef is highly versatile. You can adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your tastes. Want to make it spicier? Add some chili peppers or hot sauce. Prefer a more smoky flavor? Throw in some smoked paprika or bacon. The possibilities are endless.
Ingredients for Baked Beans with Ground Beef
To make baked beans with ground beef, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef: The star of the dish. You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option or regular ground beef for a richer flavor.
- 2 cans (15 oz each) baked beans: Choose your favorite brand or type of baked beans. For extra flavor, you can use beans with added seasoning or smoky flavor.
- 1 medium onion: Chopped, for a bit of sweetness and crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced, for depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup ketchup: For a sweet and tangy base.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: This adds a savory, umami flavor to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon mustard: A dash of mustard gives the beans a slight tanginess that complements the sweetness of the sugar.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth: Helps create the right consistency.
How to Make Baked Beans with Ground Beef
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious dish of baked beans with ground beef:
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion to the cooked ground beef and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Beans and Sauce Ingredients
Stir in the baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and paprika. Mix everything together until the beef is well coated and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Simmer and Adjust Consistency
Add 1/2 cup of water or beef broth to the mixture. Stir and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld. If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer for a longer time. If it’s too thick, add a bit more water or broth.
Step 5: Season and Taste
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt, pepper, or more Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
Step 6: Bake (Optional)
For an extra touch of flavor, transfer the bean mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. This step is optional but adds a lovely caramelization to the top of the dish.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the baked beans with ground beef is ready, serve it hot. It goes perfectly with a side of cornbread, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Variations of Baked Beans with Ground Beef
While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize baked beans with ground beef. Here are a few variations to consider:
Spicy Baked Beans with Ground Beef
For those who like a little heat, try adding jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce to your dish. This will bring a spicy kick that pairs well with the sweetness of the baked beans.
Smoky Baked Beans with Ground Beef
Add smoked paprika or even some crispy bacon bits for a deep, smoky flavor. The smoky notes will complement the richness of the ground beef.
Vegetarian Baked Beans with Ground Beef
If you’re looking for a meatless option, you can easily swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or even extra beans. The rest of the recipe remains the same, and you’ll still have a hearty, filling meal.
Sweet and Tangy Baked Beans with Ground Beef
For a slightly sweeter flavor, try adding a touch of apple cider vinegar or a spoonful of molasses to balance the sugar and spices. This variation can be a delightful change of pace.
What to Serve with Baked Beans with Ground Beef
Baked beans with ground beef is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside it:
- Cornbread: A classic choice, cornbread adds a slightly sweet and crumbly texture that complements the savory beans and beef.
- Rice: White, brown, or even wild rice works well to soak up the flavors of the beans and beef.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted carrots, broccoli, or green beans for a nutritious side.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the baked beans.
Tips for Making the Best Baked Beans with Ground Beef
- Don’t overcook the beef: Ground beef cooks quickly, so make sure not to overdo it. Overcooked beef can become tough and dry.
- Use high-quality canned beans: The quality of your baked beans will significantly impact the final dish. Choose beans with good flavor and minimal added preservatives.
- Season to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Taste as you go and add more sugar, salt, or vinegar as needed.
- Let it simmer: Allow the beans to simmer for at least 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor.
Conclusion
Baked beans with ground beef is a comforting, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or looking to impress guests at a barbecue, this recipe will surely hit the spot. With a few simple ingredients and some customization options, you can create a dish that’s perfectly tailored to your tastes.
Try out the recipe today and discover why baked beans with ground beef is a timeless favorite for so many!
