Aunt Jo'S Baked Beans
Hearty baked beans with ground beef, smoky barbecue flavor, and sweet undertones, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with a comforting, savory profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground chuck in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and bell pepper; cook until softened.
- Combine cooked meat and vegetables with drained pork and beans in a crock-pot or baking dish.
- Stir in ground mustard, catsup, barbecue sauce, and brown sugar.
- Cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours in a crock-pot, or bake in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 1 hour.
- Optionally, place bacon strips on top before baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the mix. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground chuck with a plant-based meat alternative. You can also adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar based on your taste. This recipe is versatile and can be enhanced with spices from your pantry.
Serving Suggestions
These baked beans make a hearty side dish and pair beautifully with grilled meats like barbecue ribs or burgers. For a complete meal, serve alongside cornbread or coleslaw. They also complement a picnic spread well, fitting in nicely with other American recipes. Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Jo'S Baked Beans contains roughly 855 calories, with 5g protein, 165g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (108% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 477mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
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 use different types of beans?
Yes, you can use different beans like navy or cannellini beans if desired. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as some beans may require longer to soften. Mixing in a variety can also enhance the dish's texture and flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground chuck with a meat alternative like lentils or crumbled tofu. You can also amp up the flavor with extra spices, ensuring that all other ingredients remain the same for a delicious vegetarian version.
What can I do if my baked beans are too sweet?
If your baked beans turn out too sweet, balance the flavor by adding a splash of vinegar or some mustard. Both can counteract sweetness effectively while enhancing the overall taste. Adjust gradually until you reach your desired flavor profile.
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).