As the sun sets, you might find yourself in the kitchen, tired but wanting a good meal. The thought of your family laughing together around the dinner table warms your heart. It reminds you of the importance of these moments.
Imagine a dish that feeds your loved ones and brings you closer together. This easy-baked beans and ground beef recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor. In just 30 minutes, you can serve a meal everyone will enjoy.
Table of Contents
This dish combines the rich taste of baked beans and ground beef in one pot. It’s not just a meal; it’s a chance to create lasting memories.
Understanding the Appeal of Baked Beans and Ground Beef
Baked beans are a favorite in American food, loved for their rich taste and hearty texture. They’re perfect for many events, from summer barbecues to cozy gatherings. Adding ground beef to baked beans makes them even better, boosting their protein.
The Versatility of Baked Beans
Baked beans are not just a side dish; they’re so much more. They’re a blank canvas for creative cooking. You can add many ingredients and try different cooking ways to please everyone. About 58% of Americans love baked beans at outdoor barbecues, showing how popular they are.
Why Combine with Ground Beef?
Adding ground beef to baked beans makes for a filling meal. It’s great for big family meals. The ground beef makes the baked beans even more flavorful. This recipe serves 8 people, but you can make more by adding bacon or smoked sausage.
Ingredients for Your Easy Baked Beans and Ground Beef Recipe
For a tasty dish of baked beans with ground beef and bacon, the right ingredients are key. They help bring out bold flavors and make cooking easy. Here are the must-haves and some extra touches to make your meal even better.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound of lean ground beef (an 80/20 or 85/15 ratio works well)
- 28 ounces of Bush’s Original Baked Beans
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup of chopped onion
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
Optional Enhancements for Extra Flavor
Want to add more flavor to your baked beans with ground beef and bacon? Try these:
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika for a rich smokiness
- 1 tablespoon of molasses for a hint of sweetness
- Jalapeño peppers, if you prefer some heat
Using simple ingredients for baked beans makes it easy to cook, great for weeknights. Don’t be afraid to try the optional enhancements. They can make your dish even more delicious for you and your family.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Beans with Ground Beef
This section offers a detailed step-by-step recipe for cooking baked beans with ground beef. By following these steps, you can achieve even flavors and avoid common mistakes. The process includes browning the ground beef and mixing key ingredients for a delicious meal.
Preparation and Cooking Techniques
Start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need 1 pound of ground beef, preferably with an 80/20 or 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio for the best taste. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain the excess grease and set the meat aside.
In the same skillet, sauté 1 diced onion and 1 diced bell pepper for about 5 minutes until they’re soft. Mix the sautéed vegetables with the ground beef in a large pot. This pot will be the base for your cooking baked beans.
Next, add about 3 pounds of canned baked beans, which is two 15-ounce cans. Add more flavor with 1 cup of Butcher BBQ Country Style Bean Spice, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of ketchup, and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard. Stir everything well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Put the pot in an oven preheated to 350°F and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the beans to be bubbly and warm, ensuring flavors are evenly distributed.
Tips for Efficient Cooking
To cook more efficiently, use some practical tips. Brown the beef in a separate skillet beforehand for faster ground beef preparation. This method saves time and keeps flavors intact.
If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked bacon or ground turkey instead of beef. This can save effort while still ensuring great taste. Also, preparing baked beans a day ahead can help flavors meld, making the dish more delicious. Store leftovers properly; they can stay fresh in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
| Key Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 pound |
| Canned Baked Beans | 3 pounds (2 cans) |
| Onion | 1 (diced) |
| Bell Pepper | 1 (diced) |
| BBQ Bean Spice | 1 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Ketchup | 1/4 cup |
| Dijon Mustard | 2 tablespoons |
| Baking Temperature | 350°F |
| Cook Time | 25-30 minutes |
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Weeknights
This easy baked beans and ground beef recipe is great for a quick dinner. It only takes 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. You can feed up to 18 people, perfect for big gatherings.
Quick Prep and Cook Times
Preparing this meal is fast, which is perfect for busy evenings. You can have a delicious meal ready in about 40 minutes. It’s a great way to spend time together, even when you’re all busy.
Feeding a Crowd with Minimal Effort
This recipe is amazing for feeding a lot of people with little effort. Ground beef is a key ingredient, making it easy to plan meals. One pound of ground beef can feed 4 to 6 people, saving you money and time.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | Up to 18 people |
| Main Ingredients | Ground beef, baked beans, instant rice |
Customizing Your Baked Beans Recipe
Customizing baked beans lets you make the recipe your own. You can change ingredients to suit your taste and what you have on hand. This way, you can make the dish healthier and more flavorful.
Ingredient Variations
Try different beans for unique textures and tastes. Pinto or navy beans can change the flavor. You can also use ground turkey or pork sausage instead of beef for a lighter option.
Add-ins for Different Flavors
Adding special ingredients can make your baked beans stand out. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add a fresh taste. Spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper bring a nice heat.
For a touch of sweetness, adjust the brown sugar or try honey or maple syrup. These changes keep your dish exciting and tasty.
| Ingredient Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Type of Beans | Pinto beans offer a creamier texture, while navy beans provide a milder taste. |
| Meat Alternatives | Ground turkey is a leaner option, while pork sausage adds richness. |
| Herbs and Spices | Fresh parsley or cilantro can brighten the dish; smoked paprika introduces depth. |
| Sweeteners | Use brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup to adjust sweetness based on preference. |
Serving Suggestions for Your Baked Beans and Ground Beef
Serving your baked beans and ground beef dish can be just as exciting as preparing it. Thoughtful side dishes and meal pairings make your meal satisfying and enjoyable. A balanced dinner plate with good flavors and nutrients is key to a nourishing meal your family will love.
Complementing Sides and Main Dishes
Choose side dishes that bring out the best in baked beans and ground beef. Here are some great options:
- Cornbread: Sweetness contrasts nicely with savory beans.
- Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch to the rich beef.
- Grilled Vegetables: Bring vibrant colors and a smoky flavor.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy texture pairs well with beans and meat.
Creating a Balanced Meal
To make a balanced dinner, include proteins, carbs, and lots of veggies. Consider adding:
| Main Ingredient | Nutrition Benefits |
|---|---|
| Baked Beans | High in fiber and plant-based protein |
| Ground Beef | Rich source of protein and iron |
| Suggested Sides | Contribute vitamins, minerals, and additional textures |
This variety not only boosts health but also makes for a welcoming dinner. Enjoy making the perfect mix of side dishes for baked beans and your hearty main course.
How to Store Leftovers Safely
Properly storing baked beans leftovers means you can enjoy them again. Follow some key refrigeration tips to keep your food fresh and safe.
Best Practices for Refrigeration
To safely store your baked beans and ground beef leftovers:
- Put any leftovers in an airtight container within two hours of cooking to stop bacteria from growing.
- Mark the container with the date to know how long it’s been stored. Leftovers will remain fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a good choice. Baked beans can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Raw ground beef should be in a sealed container on the bottom shelf to prevent contamination.
Reheating Tips for Optimal Taste
When reheating your baked beans, do it carefully to keep the flavor:
- In the oven, reheat at 350°F until it’s warm. This takes about 15-20 minutes.
- The microwave is quicker. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway to heat evenly.
- If the beans seem too thick, add a little water or broth while reheating.
| Storage Method | Max Duration | Reheating Method | Temp & Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Oven | 350°F, until warmed through |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Microwave | 1-2 minutes on high |
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Baked Beans
Baked beans can be a delightful dish, but some mistakes can ruin it. Knowing the common mistakes helps you improve flavors and textures. Avoid overcooking and seasoning errors for a great dish.
Overcooking the Beans
Overcooking is a big mistake in making baked beans. Overcooked beans become mushy, losing their taste and texture. Cook them just right to keep their quality.
Watch the cooking time closely. Aim for 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C) for the best results.
Seasoning Missteps
Seasoning is key to great flavors in baked beans. Many people add too much salt or sugar. This can make the dish taste bad.
Start with small amounts of salt and brown sugar. Taste as you go and adjust to your liking.
| Mistake | Consequence | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Overcooking the beans | Mushy texture, loss of flavor | Monitor cooking time, bake at proper temperature |
| Inaccurate seasoning | Bland or overly sweet dish | Taste as you cook, follow recommended measurements |
Tips for Cooking Ground Beef to Perfection
Getting the right texture and flavor in ground beef is key, like in baked beans. Choosing the right beef and mastering browning can make your meal better. Here are some tips to cook ground beef well.
Choosing the Right Kind of Beef
The type of beef you pick changes the taste and health of your dish. There are many types of ground beef, each with different fat levels. Here are some common ones:
- Extra Lean Ground Beef: Has less than 10% fat, making it healthier.
- Lean Ground Beef: Has about 10-15% fat, offering a good mix of taste and health.
- Regular Ground Beef: Contains 20% fat, great for dishes where you want a rich flavor.
Picking leaner cuts can cut down on fat while keeping your dish tasty and filling.
Techniques for Browning Ground Beef
Getting the beef to brown well is key to its flavor. Here are some tips to help you brown it perfectly:
- Start with a Hot Skillet: Heat your skillet on medium-high before adding the beef. A hot pan helps with caramelization.
- Break It Up: As you add the beef, break it into smaller pieces with a spatula. This helps it brown better.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Too much beef at once will steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if needed.
- Stir Sparingly: Let the meat sear before stirring. Stirring too much can stop browning.
- Season While Cooking: Seasoning as you cook lets the flavors mix, making the beef taste better.
By following these tips, you can get beautifully browned meat. This will make your baked beans and ground beef dish even better.
| Type of Ground Beef | Fat Content | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Lean | Less than 10% | Healthier options, burgers |
| Lean | 10-15% | Everyday meals |
| Regular | 20% | Rich sauces, tacos |
Exploring Other Baked Beans Variations
Baked beans are loved worldwide, with many variations. Each region adds its own twist, making them perfect for any event. Trying different baked beans styles can add excitement to your cooking.
Beans and Beef with a Southern Twist
Southern baked beans are known for their rich flavors. They often include smoky bacon, brown sugar, and spicy sausages. For a tasty twist, try calico beans with pinto, kidney, and navy beans.
Using 6 ounces of bacon per pound of ground beef adds a savory touch. This makes Southern baked beans a standout dish.
Different Regional Styles to Try
There’s more to baked beans than Southern style. Exploring other regional styles can introduce you to new flavors. For instance, New England baked beans use navy beans and molasses for sweetness.
Southwestern versions add jalapeños and cumin for a spicy kick. Each style offers unique ingredients and cooking methods. This lets you find the perfect baked beans for your next meal.
Discovering new baked beans variations can lead to a favorite dish to share. With so many regional styles, there’s always something new to try. So, don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen!
| Region | Main Ingredients | Cooking Method |
|---|---|---|
| Southern | Bacon, brown sugar, ground beef | Bake at 350°F for 30-60 minutes |
| New England | Navy beans, molasses | Slow-cook for several hours |
| Southwestern | Pinto beans, jalapeños, cumin | Simmer on the stovetop |
Nutritional Benefits of Baked Beans and Ground Beef
Adding baked beans and ground beef to your meals can boost your health. Baked beans are full of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are great for your diet.
Health Benefits of Beans
Baked beans are high in dietary fiber, which helps your digestion and gut health. They are also packed with iron and potassium. These nutrients are key for your health.
Beans can lower cholesterol, control blood sugar, and support heart health. They are a fantastic addition to any meal.
Ground Beef as a Source of Protein
Ground beef is a top-notch protein source. A 3-ounce serving has about 24 grams of protein. This is crucial for muscle growth and maintenance.
It also has iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Iron boosts energy, and B12 helps with memory and brain function. Adding lean ground beef to your diet meets your protein needs and adds important nutrients.
Conclusion
The easy baked beans and ground beef recipe is a great choice for a weeknight meal. It’s both tasty and easy to make, ready in just 30 minutes. This recipe serves eight people, making it perfect for family dinners.
With simple ingredients like lean ground beef and canned baked beans, you can make a flavorful dish. You can add jalapeños for spice or brown sugar for sweetness. This lets you make the recipe your own.
There are many ways to serve this dish, like with cornbread or grilled veggies. It’s a flexible recipe that can be part of your busy weeknight meals. Try it out and see how much your family enjoys it.