baked beans with ground beef recipe

Growing up in a Southern kitchen, I remember the comforting aroma of baked beans with ground beef. This beloved recipe was more than just a side dish. It was a centerpiece of family gatherings, bringing everyone together with its rich, savory flavors.

Baked beans with ground beef is a quintessential American comfort food. It transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal. Perfect for backyard barbecues, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this hearty dish combines the sweetness of beans with the robust flavor of ground beef.

Whether you’re a home cook looking to impress your family or someone searching for a crowd-pleasing recipe, these baked beans will become a staple in your culinary repertoire. With just an hour of preparation, you’ll create a dish that’s both nutritious and incredibly satisfying.

Key Takeaways

• A classic Southern-inspired comfort food recipe
• Quick and easy to prepare in under 90 minutes
• Serves 8 people generously
• Nutritious with balanced protein and carbohydrates
• Versatile dish suitable for multiple occasions

Why This Meaty Baked Beans Dish is a Must-Try

Try a dish that turns simple baked beans with hamburger into a feast. It’s packed with bold flavors and hearty ingredients. It’s sure to make your dinner table unforgettable.

Perfect for Family Gatherings

This dish is a hit with families, serving 9 to 10 people easily. It’s perfect for family reunions, potlucks, and barbecues. With 4 cups of beans, everyone gets a big helping.

Budget-Friendly Meal Option

Save money with this affordable baked beans with hamburger recipe. It uses just 1 pound of ground beef and two 28-ounce cans of beans. It’s a budget-friendly option for feeding a crowd.

• Serves 18 people with half-cup portions
• Uses affordable ingredients
• Easily scalable for larger gatherings

Versatile Serving Options

This recipe is great as a main dish or a side. It pairs well with grilled meats, cornbread, or on its own. The mix of sweet brown sugar, tangy ketchup, and savory ground beef is delicious in many ways.

“A simple dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal experience.”

It cooks in just 30-40 minutes, offering lots of flavor with little effort. It’s perfect for a quick family dinner or a big gathering. These baked beans with hamburger will be a favorite in your kitchen.

Essential Ingredients for Baked Beans with Ground Beef Recipe

To make the best baked beans with ground beef, pick the right ingredients. They should taste great and be good for you. This dish mixes classic tastes with rich flavors that will make your mouth happy.

For a tasty baked beans with ground beef recipe, you’ll need these key items:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 2 cans (16 oz each) of pork and beans
• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Some ingredients add extra flavor to this recipe:

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon ground mustard
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Pro tip: Choose high-quality ground beef with a good fat content to ensure maximum flavor in your baked beans with ground beef recipe.

By picking and mixing these ingredients, you’ll make a delicious baked beans with ground beef recipe. It’s great for family dinners or potluck events.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make tasty baked beans with hamburger, you need the right kitchen tools. The right equipment makes sure your dish is perfect every time. Let’s look at the cookware and measuring tools you’ll need for this classic recipe.

Recommended Cookware

Choosing the right cookware is key for cooking baked beans with hamburger. Here are the must-haves:

• Large Dutch Oven: Ideal for even heat distribution
• 9×13 inch Baking Dish: Perfect for final baking stage
• Heavy-bottomed Skillet: Essential for browning ground beef

Optional Equipment

While not essential, these tools can make cooking better:

• Cast Iron Skillet: Provides excellent heat retention
• Slow Cooker: Alternative method for preparing baked beans with hamburger
• Oven-safe Casserole Dish: Versatile cooking option

Measuring Tools

When making baked beans with hamburger, precision is key. Accurate measurements ensure the flavor stays consistent:

“The right tools transform good cooking into great cooking.” – Professional Chef

Investing in quality kitchen equipment makes your baked beans with hamburger recipe a hit. Each tool is crucial for a delicious, well-prepared dish that your family will enjoy.

Preparing the Ground Beef and Bacon Base

Starting with the right meat is key to making great baked beans with hamburger. You need top-quality ground beef and bacon for rich flavors.

For the best taste, use 1 pound of ground beef with 73% lean and 27% fat. This fat ratio helps in getting rid of extra grease. Here’s how to prepare the meat base:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat
2. Add the ground beef to the pan
3. Cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking the meat into small crumbles
4. Drain excess fat completely

Bacon brings an incredible depth of flavor to your baked beans. Pick 6-8 slices of good-quality bacon and cook them separately:

• Chop bacon into small pieces
• Cook until crispy and golden brown
• Pat excess grease with paper towels

“The secret to amazing baked beans is in the meat preparation” – Home Cooking Experts

Pro tip: Add a medium diced onion to the ground beef for more flavor. Preparing the meat takes about 15-20 minutes. It’s worth it for a delicious baked beans dish.

Your meat base is the heart of your baked beans with hamburger. It promises a meal that will wow everyone.

The Secret to Perfect Bean Sauce

Making the ultimate baked beans with ground beef recipe is all about the sauce. It turns simple ingredients into a delicious dish.

Balancing Sweet and Savory Flavors

Creating the perfect sauce for baked beans with ground beef is all about balance. Key ingredients are crucial for a rich taste:

• Brown sugar adds a deep sweetness
• Worcestershire sauce brings umami depth
• Mustard provides a tangy kick
• Ketchup contributes a subtle sweetness and acidity

Sauce Consistency Tips

The perfect baked beans with ground beef recipe needs the right sauce thickness. Here are some tips:

1. Start with a base of reduced liquid ingredients
2. Simmer to concentrate flavors
3. Use cornstarch or flour to thicken if needed
4. Add small amounts of liquid to thin the sauce

Seasoning Adjustments

Personalizing your baked beans with ground beef recipe is important. Here’s how to tweak flavors:

“The magic of a great sauce lies in subtle adjustments and personal taste.” – Home Cooking Wisdom

Remember, the best baked beans with ground beef recipe is one that speaks to your palate. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making tasty baked beans with hamburger is simple. This recipe turns basic ingredients into a dish that will wow your loved ones. Here’s how to cook it step by step.

1. Prepare Your Ground Beef
   • Brown 1 pound of lean ground beef in a skillet
   • Cook for 5-8 minutes until fully browned
   • Drain excess fat to keep the baked beans light
2. Combine Ingredients
   • Mix 2 cans of baked beans with the cooked ground beef
   • Add 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
   • Incorporate 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
   • Sprinkle 1 teaspoon black pepper
3. Baking Process
   • Preheat oven to 400°F
   • Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish
   • Optional: Top with 6-8 strips of hickory smoked bacon
   • Bake uncovered for 30-45 minutes

For the best results, stir the baked beans with hamburger occasionally during cooking. This helps distribute heat evenly and prevents burning. The dish is ready when it’s bubbly and the top is slightly caramelized.

“A great baked beans recipe is all about balancing flavors and cooking with patience.” – Home Cooking Expert

Pro tip: If you prefer a thicker sauce, extend the baking time by 10-15 minutes. For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to your baked beans with hamburger.

Cooking time is approximately 1 hour total, with 10 minutes of preparation and 30-45 minutes of baking. This recipe serves 8 and provides a hearty, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or weekend barbecues.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Keeping your baked beans with ground beef recipe tasty means knowing how to store and reheat it. By following these tips, you can enjoy every bite without losing flavor or compromising safety.

Proper Storage Methods

Here’s how to keep your baked beans fresh:

• Cool the dish completely before storing
• Use airtight containers with tight-fitting lids
• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
• Store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days
• Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers

Reheating Techniques

Here are ways to warm up your baked beans:

1. Oven Method:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F
   • Place beans in an oven-safe dish
   • Cover with foil to prevent drying
   • Heat for 15-20 minutes
2. Microwave Method:
   • Transfer to a microwave-safe container
   • Cover with a microwave-safe lid
   • Heat in 1-2 minute intervals
   • Stir between heating cycles
3. Stovetop Method:
   • Use a medium-low heat setting
   • Stir frequently to prevent burning
   • Heat for 10-15 minutes

“Proper storage and reheating can make your baked beans with ground beef taste just as delicious as when they were first cooked!”

Always check the beans’ internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety. Try not to reheat them too many times. This can make the beans lose their quality and texture.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Creating delicious baked beans with hamburger meat doesn’t mean you’re limited to a single recipe. Our versatile dish offers numerous exciting ways to customize and transform the classic comfort food.

Protein alternatives can elevate your baked beans with hamburger meat to new culinary heights. Consider these protein substitutions:

• Ground turkey (95% lean for a healthier option)
• Ground chicken
• Plant-based burger crumbles for vegetarian lovers
• Ground pork for a richer flavor profile

Bean variety can dramatically change the texture and nutritional profile of your dish. Experiment with different bean types such as:

• Cannellini beans
• Pinto beans
• Kidney beans
• Black beans

“Creativity in the kitchen transforms good recipes into extraordinary meals.” – Home Cooking Enthusiast

Spice enthusiasts can adjust heat levels and flavor complexity by incorporating:

• Chili powder
• Smoked paprika
• Cayenne pepper
• Fresh jalapeños

For those seeking regional twists, consider these flavor variations:

• Mediterranean-style with oregano and feta
• Southwestern approach with cumin and green chilies
• BBQ-inspired with additional smoky sauce

Nutritional tip: When substituting ingredients, maintain similar protein and fat ratios to preserve the recipe’s core nutritional value. Each variation offers unique benefits while keeping the comforting essence of classic baked beans with hamburger meat.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Baked beans with hamburger are great for meal planning. They can go from a simple side to a main dish with the right pairings and presentation.

Perfect Side Dish Companions

Make your baked beans with hamburger even better by serving them with these dishes:

• Crisp green salad
• Potato salad
• Coleslaw
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Fresh cornbread

Main Course Combinations

Your baked beans with hamburger pair well with different proteins:

“A well-paired dish turns a simple meal into a memorable dining experience.” – Culinary Enthusiast

This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious. It has about 179 calories per serving and is well-balanced. It’s a great choice for families looking for a satisfying meal.

Presentation Tips

For a stunning presentation, try these garnishing ideas:

1. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley
2. Add crispy bacon bits
3. Drizzle with a small amount of BBQ sauce
4. Serve in a rustic cast-iron skillet

Pro tip: These baked beans taste even better the next day, making them perfect for meal prep and potlucks!

Conclusion

The baked beans with ground beef recipe is more than a meal. It’s a journey that brings families together. It combines beans, ground beef, and seasonings for a memorable experience.

This recipe is easy to make and flexible with ingredients. It’s perfect for any occasion, from big family gatherings to quick dinners. It’s a delicious solution that can be tailored to everyone’s taste.

Home cooks can add their own twist with BBQ sauce, different beans, or meats. The goal is to be creative while keeping the dish’s comforting essence. With a prep time of about 35 minutes and serving 6-8 people, it’s simple yet satisfying.

So, get ready to cook and start your baked beans with ground beef journey. It’s time to create a meal that will become a family favorite.