Army Style Baked Beans
Hearty army-style baked beans with seasoned ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and a touch of sweetness and heat, perfect for casual gatherings and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together hamburger, green bell pepper, and diced onions in a mixing bowl.
- Place the mixture into a skillet and cook on medium heat until done.
- Drain excess fat or liquid from the cooked mixture.
- Transfer the cooked mixture to a large mixing bowl.
- Add brown sugar to the mixture until it reaches desired sweetness.
- Add Tabasco sauce to taste, being careful not to add too much.
- Place the mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
- Ensure the mixture doesn't dry out during baking.
- Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger for a lighter option. You can also substitute the green bell pepper with red or yellow for a sweeter taste. If you prefer more heat, feel free to add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Adjust the brown sugar based on your preference; start with a smaller amount and increase as needed. This dish is reminiscent of other hearty American recipes, making it versatile for various occasions.
Serving Suggestions
These Army Style Baked Beans make a great main dish or side for barbecues and picnics. Serve them alongside cornbread or coleslaw for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Mamaw'S Potato Soup for a comforting dinner. For a twist, try topping them with shredded cheese or crispy bacon bits before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. If the beans seem dry, add a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Army Style Baked Beans contains roughly 99 calories, with 3g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (204% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the hamburger with a meat substitute like lentils or a plant-based ground meat. Adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure everything is heated through. This will keep the hearty texture while making it suitable for vegetarian diets.
How spicy are these baked beans?
The spice level can be easily adjusted based on your preference. If you want them milder, start with a small amount of Tabasco sauce and taste as you go. You can always add more, but it's hard to take it out once it's in. For those who love heat, add more or even include diced peppers.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and bake it the next day when you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, making the dish even more delicious!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).