Baked Beans With Beef
A hearty baked beans dish with savory ground beef, sweet barbecue flavor, and crispy bacon topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Add chopped small onion to the beef while browning and cook until softened.
- Drain any remaining liquid.
- Combine the cooked beef and onion with drained pork and beans, brown sugar, and barbecue sauce in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Lay strips of bacon across the top of the mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until heated through and bacon is crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked paprika or a splash of Worcestershire sauce in the mixture. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meat alternative. You can also use homemade barbecue sauce for a fresher taste. Don't hesitate to add some chopped bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These baked beans with beef are perfect for a potluck or barbecue. Serve alongside classic sides like coleslaw or cornbread for a satisfying meal. They also pair beautifully with Sunday Spaghetti Casserole for a hearty family dinner. Consider topping with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and flavor before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil, warming in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Beans With Beef contains roughly 1302 calories, with 13g protein, 212g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 600mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare baked beans with beef in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use instead of pork and beans?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute pork and beans with navy beans or kidney beans combined with a tomato sauce base. This will change the texture slightly but still provide a hearty dish. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for some heat. Alternatively, sprinkle in cayenne pepper or use a spicy barbecue sauce. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference to create the perfect balance.
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).