Baked Beans With Beef And Bacon
Savory baked beans combined with ground beef and crispy bacon create a hearty dish packed with sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with finely chopped onion and green pepper in a skillet.
- Partially cook bacon, then set aside.
- Mix all ingredients together, including pork and beans, brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, cooked beef mixture, and bacon.
- Pour the mixture into a baking pan, placing the bacon on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a pinch of paprika. If you prefer a sweeter profile, substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup. You can also swap the green pepper for diced jalapeños for a bit of heat. For a vegetarian version, replace the beef and bacon with lentils and mushrooms. This dish is a great way to utilize leftover bacon from breakfast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked beans alongside cornbread or a light green salad for a balanced meal. They also pair well with grilled meats, making them an excellent side for a barbecue. For a hearty lunch, consider serving them on toast or as a filling for a baked potato. They are delicious with a dollop of sour cream on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place them in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, covering the dish and heating in short intervals to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Beans With Beef And Bacon contains roughly 581 calories, with 9g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 639mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of beans instead of pork and beans?
Yes, you can substitute the pork and beans with kidney beans or navy beans. Just ensure they are well-drained and rinsed if using canned beans. This will offer a different texture and flavor but will still result in a delicious dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating chopped jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or some cayenne pepper into the mixture. For a unique twist, you can also add a teaspoon of chili powder, which complements the sweetness of the brown sugar beautifully.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply transfer it to the baking pan, add the bacon on top, and bake as directed. This allows the flavors to meld even more.
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).