Beer Beans
A hearty and flavorful bean dish with ground meat, vegetables, and a hint of beer, perfect for casual gatherings or comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped green bell pepper in a skillet.
- Drain grease from the browned meat and vegetables.
- Add Ro-Tel tomatoes, Ranch Style beans, garlic, salt, pepper, and mushrooms if using.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to simmer.
- Add beer if desired; otherwise, add 1 cup water.
- Simmer for 45 minutes, adding more water for a soupier consistency if needed.
- Taste the dish; the beer flavor is subtle and usually not detectable.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting the ground meat with turkey or a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version. If you prefer a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or chili powder. You can also experiment with different beans, like black beans or pinto beans, for varied textures. Using light beer will keep the flavor subtle, while darker beers will add depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Beer Beans with a side of cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or can be topped with shredded cheese and sour cream for extra richness. For a fun twist, use it as a filling for tacos or burritos, or enjoy alongside a refreshing Cranberry Tea Punch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the beans have thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to achieve the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beer Beans contains roughly 548 calories, with 14g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (132% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2397mg per serving (104% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the ground meat with a plant-based meat alternative or simply omitting it altogether. Adding more beans and perhaps some lentils can help maintain a satisfying texture and protein content.
What can I serve with Beer Beans?
Beer Beans are versatile and can be served with various sides. They go great with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also top them with shredded cheese, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor. For a beverage, consider pairing with Moette Punch (Non-Alcoholic Drink)(8 Servings) for a refreshing contrast.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level in Beer Beans, you can add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for heat. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the jalapeños or use sweet bell peppers instead. Taste as you go to find 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).