Baked Beans And Meat Sauce
A hearty baked beans and meat sauce dish combining savory ground beef, sweet and tangy flavors, and colorful vegetables. Perfect for casual family dinners or gatherings, it offers a comforting, flavorful experience with a balance of richness and sweetness that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onion and chopped bell pepper in a skillet.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, prepared mustard, salt, and pepper to season the meat mixture.
- Pour the pork and beans into a casserole dish.
- Spread the cooked meat and vegetable mixture over the beans.
- Pour catsup and brown sugar over the top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 minutes, then cover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Serve hot with buttered French bread and a green salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding a can of diced tomatoes or some chopped bacon for extra flavor. If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute honey or maple syrup for the brown sugar. You can also use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef for a lighter option. This dish is similar to many American recipes that blend sweet and savory flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with buttered French bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside coleslaw or potato salad for a summer cookout vibe. For added flair, top with shredded cheese or chopped green onions before serving. It’s a perfect comfort food option for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked beans and meat sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply transfer to a saucepan and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Beans And Meat Sauce contains roughly 700 calories, with 6g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (191% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 618mg per serving (27% 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 entire dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of pork and beans?
If you don’t have pork and beans, you can substitute with any canned beans you prefer, such as kidney beans or black beans. Just be mindful of adjusting the seasoning to match the different flavor profiles. You can also try homemade baked beans for a personalized touch.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the baked beans and meat sauce for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in the oven until heated through, or microwave in individual portions.
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).