Carol'S Baked Beans
A hearty, sweet and savory baked beans dish featuring ground beef, bacon, and a rich tomato-based sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain off any fat drippings and cook the bacon slices until crispy.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and add it to the meat mixture.
- Slightly drain the pork and beans and add them to the meat mixture.
- Add catsup, mustard, and brown sugar to the mixture.
- Simmer uncovered for approximately 20 minutes until the mixture candies.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smokier flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the mixture. If you don't have brown sugar, honey or maple syrup can be used as substitutes. For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef and bacon with sautéed mushrooms and tempeh, and use vegetarian beans. Adjust the sweetness by tasting as you go.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Carol's Baked Beans as a hearty side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. They pair well with cornbread or grilled meats, and for a complete meal, consider serving alongside coleslaw. This dish also makes a great topping for baked potatoes or as a filling in Beef Pocket Pies for a unique twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the beans in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, covering the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carol'S Baked Beans contains roughly 848 calories, with 34g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (69% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1081mg per serving (47% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the baked beans a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe until the simmering step, let it cool, and then store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, and you can reheat it when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you're looking for alternatives to ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can work well in this recipe. For a meatless option, try using lentils or a combination of beans and vegetables, which will still provide a hearty texture and flavor.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is not spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat level to your preference. Adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce will give it a kick. If you're looking for a milder flavor, stick to the original ingredients as written.
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).