Baked Beans With Meat
Baked Beans With Meat is a hearty, savory dish combining pork and beans with ground ham or beef, vegetables, and a flavorful ketchup-based sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it offers a comforting blend of sweet, smoky, and umami flavors that appeal to meat lovers and bean enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced celery and onions; sauté until softened.
- In a bowl, combine ground ham (or ground beef) with the cooked vegetables.
- Drain the pork and beans and place them in a large baking dish.
- Add the meat and vegetable mixture to the beans.
- Stir in the pimentos, mushrooms, brown sugar, ketchup, and dry mustard.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, until bubbly and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked ham or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meats with cooked lentils or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different beans, like navy or cannellini, for a unique twist. Ensure to drain the beans well to prevent excess liquid in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked beans with crusty bread or cornbread for a hearty meal. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, making them a perfect side for a summer barbecue. Consider serving alongside a fresh salad or coleslaw for a balanced plate. They also complement American recipes like Honey Glazed Ham for holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the baked beans in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming them at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Beans With Meat contains roughly 656 calories, with 7g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is a good source of vitamin D (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (14% 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?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for pork and beans, you can substitute with other beans such as navy, cannellini, or even black beans. Just ensure they are well-drained to maintain the desired consistency of the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you enjoy a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for extra heat and flavor.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead by assembling all the ingredients and refrigerating them. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes it a convenient option for gatherings.
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).