Aunt Donna'S Hamburger Beans
A hearty baked bean casserole with ground beef and sweet molasses, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground chuck until browned; drain excess fat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine pork and beans, cooked ground chuck, dry mustard, brown sugar, and molasses.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 2 hours.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on this dish, consider adding diced bell peppers or onions to the ground chuck while cooking for additional flavor. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use canned baked beans instead of pork and beans if preferred. Adjust the sweetness by varying the molasses and brown sugar to taste. For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Consider serving with a side of Gourmet Baked Potatoes for a hearty dinner. It also makes a great filling for baked potatoes or as a topping for nachos, adding versatility to your meal options.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a baking dish and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Donna'S Hamburger Beans contains roughly 542 calories, with 1g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (18% of the Daily Value), iron (10% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
What can I serve with Aunt Donna's Hamburger Beans?
This dish is quite hearty on its own, but it pairs well with cornbread or a simple salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside meatballs and mushroom gravy or other comforting American recipes that complement the flavors.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Ensure they are in an airtight container and consume within 3 months for the best quality. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
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).