Baked Beans with Ground Beef

A hearty and flavorful twist on classic baked beans, this dish combines tender beans with seasoned ground beef in a rich, smoky-sweet sauce. Perfect as a comforting side or a filling main, it’s a crowd-pleaser for potlucks, BBQs, and weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and hearty: The combination of ground beef and beans in a rich, sweet sauce makes this a filling and satisfying dish.
• Quick and easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 50 minutes in the oven, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or a gathering.
• Versatile: Great as a side or a main dish, this recipe can be paired with grilled meats, served over rice, or enjoyed on its own.
• Crowd-pleaser: With its savory flavors and smoky-sweet sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit at potlucks, BBQs, and family dinners.
• Protein-packed: The ground beef adds extra protein to the beans, making this a more filling meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) baked beans
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with baked beans, barbecue sauce, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer to a baking dish: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
5. Bake: Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the beans are bubbling and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: Approximately 390 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add bacon: For an extra smoky flavor, stir in some cooked crumbled bacon before baking.
• Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for some heat.
• Vegetarian option: Omit the ground beef and add more beans, or use vegetarian crumbles for a meat-free version.
• Make it tangy: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a bit of pickle juice to the sauce for a tangy kick.
• Topping ideas: Top with shredded cheese and bake until melted for a cheesy variation, or sprinkle with fresh herbs for added freshness.

storage/reheating

Store leftover baked beans with ground beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a little water if needed to loosen the sauce. These beans can also be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes, you can substitute the baked beans with other beans like kidney beans, pinto beans, or black beans if preferred.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I make this recipe without barbecue sauce?

If you don’t have barbecue sauce, you can make a simple sauce with ketchup, mustard, and a little brown sugar for a similar taste.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more mustard, a dash of cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to increase the heat level.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to ground beef for this recipe.

How do I know when the beans are done baking?

The beans should be bubbling, and the sauce should have thickened. A quick taste test can also help determine if the flavors are balanced.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the beef and onion, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make a larger batch. Just use a larger baking dish and bake for the same amount of time.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, baked beans with ground beef freeze well. Let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove when ready to serve.

What should I serve with these baked beans?

These baked beans are great served alongside grilled meats, burgers, or hot dogs, or as part of a BBQ spread. They also pair well with cornbread or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Baked Beans with Ground Beef is a flavorful, hearty dish that brings comfort and satisfying flavors to any meal. Whether as a side for a BBQ, a filling main dish, or a crowd-pleaser at your next potluck, this recipe is sure to impress. With its rich sauce, tender beans, and seasoned beef, it’s the ultimate comfort food that will leave everyone coming back for more.

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