Baked Beans With Ground Meat
Baked Beans With Ground Meat is a hearty, savory dish combining tender ground meat with sweet and tangy baked beans, enriched by mustard, molasses, and brown sugar. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers bold flavors and comforting warmth with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Add all ingredients to the ground meat in a baking dish.
- Mix well to combine.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also substitute half of the brown sugar with honey for a different sweetness profile. If you want a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. This dish is also great with a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Baked beans with ground meat are perfect for BBQs or potlucks, pairing wonderfully with cornbread, like Blueberry Cornbread, or a fresh salad such as Six Item Salad. Serve them alongside grilled meats or as a hearty side dish for a cozy family meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or transfer to a saucepan over low heat until heated through. You can also freeze the baked beans for up to three months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Beans With Ground Meat contains roughly 774 calories, with 4g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% 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 vegetarian ground meat instead?
Yes, you can easily substitute the ground meat with a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version of this dish. There are many options available, including lentils or soy-based crumbles, that will absorb the flavors well and provide a hearty texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the baked beans up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making it taste even better.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding diced bell peppers, garlic, or even bacon for a smoky flavor. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bit of barbecue sauce can also enhance the taste. Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin or chili powder to suit your palate.
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).