Black Bean And Beef Barbecue Bake
A hearty and cheesy baked dish combining flavorful ground beef, black beans, barbecue sauce, and melted cheddar, perfect for casual family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown the ground beef and onions in a skillet.
- Drain off the fat from the beef mixture.
- Add undrained black beans, barbecue sauce, salt, and cubed Cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir and simmer together for 5 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole or 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Pour cornbread batter on top of the beef and bean mixture.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the beef mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, swap ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based substitute. For a more cheesy dish, increase the amount of Cheddar cheese or try a different variety like Monterey Jack. Adjust the barbecue sauce quantity based on your sweetness preference.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal. For a heartier experience, serve it alongside cornbread or tortilla chips. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top can also elevate the flavors. For more creative variations, explore other American recipes that complement this bake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Bean And Beef Barbecue Bake contains roughly 873 calories, with 40g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (80% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value), and iron (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2565mg per serving (112% 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 dried black beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried black beans. Soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding them to the skillet. This will require some additional cooking time, so plan accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked before combining with the other ingredients.
What can I use instead of barbecue sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce, you can make a quick substitute by mixing ketchup with Worcestershire sauce, a bit of brown sugar, and some vinegar for tang. Alternatively, salsa or a spicy tomato sauce can add a unique twist to the dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and bean mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, simply layer the cornbread batter on top and bake as instructed. This can save time during busy weeknights.
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).