Beefy Barbecue Beans
Hearty and flavorful beefy barbecue beans combine tender ground beef, savory onion, and rich barbecue sauce, perfect as a filling for buns, cornbread, or as a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a deep 12-inch skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef and chopped onion; drain excess fat.
- Add the pork and beans and barbecue sauce to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes or until thickened.
- Serve on hamburger buns, cornbread, or as a side dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground beef with a higher fat content. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or mushrooms. Adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños can also enhance the taste. Feel free to adjust the barbecue sauce based on your preferred sweetness or smokiness, or try using a homemade barbecue sauce for a personal touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Beefy Barbecue Beans on hamburger buns for a hearty sandwich, or pair with cornbread for a comforting meal. They also work wonderfully as a side dish alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. For a twist, try them over baked potatoes or as a topping for nachos. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes like Chili Cheeseburger Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave in a covered dish for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. If desired, add a splash of water to prevent drying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beefy Barbecue Beans contains roughly 2630 calories, with 39g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 262g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (78% of the Daily Value) and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 738mg per serving (32% 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 canned beans other than pork and beans?
Absolutely! While pork and beans add a specific flavor, you can use other canned beans like black beans or kidney beans. Just adjust the seasonings to complement your choice, and remember that different beans may affect the overall texture and taste of the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, mix in some diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or your favorite hot sauce. You can also experiment with spicy barbecue sauce for an extra kick. Just be sure to taste as you go so you can achieve your desired spice level without overpowering the other flavors.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking. Just reheat it when you're ready to serve. It also freezes well, so consider making a double batch to enjoy later. Just thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
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).