Beef Baked Beans
Hearty baked beans with ground beef, sweet and tangy flavors, topped with bacon. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown and drain the ground beef.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked beef with pork and beans, chopped onion, brown sugar, catsup, dry mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a large baking dish.
- Cover with bacon slices.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can also use homemade beans instead of canned for a fresher taste. Make sure to drain the beans well to avoid a watery dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef baked beans alongside cornbread or a fresh garden salad for a delightful meal. They also pair nicely with grilled meats or can be used as a hearty filling for baked potatoes. For a complete dinner experience, consider browsing more American recipes that complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover beef baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water or extra ketchup can help maintain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Baked Beans contains roughly 1005 calories, with 10g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), iron (16% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 807mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, beef baked beans can be prepared a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated thoroughly.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your beef baked beans by adding chopped bell peppers, jalapeños for heat, or even cooked bacon pieces for extra flavor. You can also incorporate different beans for variety, such as black beans or kidney beans, to enhance the dish's texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or simply using additional beans and lentils for protein. Replace the Worcestershire sauce with a vegan alternative, and you’ll have a delicious dish that everyone can enjoy.
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).