Daniels Favorite Baked Beans
A hearty baked beans dish featuring ground beef, sweet tomato sauce, and caramelized onion, perfect for casual gatherings, comfort food lovers, or easy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground chuck slightly in a skillet.
- Drain the excess fat from the browned beef.
- Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, pork and beans, and tomato sauce to the skillet.
- Cook slowly for 10 to 15 minutes to blend flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the ground chuck with ground turkey for a leaner option. If you're short on time, using canned tomato sauce is quicker than making your own. You can also add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for a spicy kick. For a sweeter profile, try using molasses instead of brown sugar, or incorporate a dash of BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These baked beans are perfect for summer barbecues or potlucks. Serve them alongside grilled meats, such as burgers or hot dogs, for a classic American meal. They also pair beautifully with cornbread or coleslaw. For a hearty vegetarian option, consider serving with a side of Potato And Bean Casserole for a delicious twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, covered, for about 2 minutes. If the beans seem dry, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Daniels Favorite Baked Beans contains roughly 700 calories, with 10g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value), protein (21% of the Daily Value), and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2030mg per serving (88% 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. Just follow the recipe and let them cool before refrigerating. When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a bit of water if needed to keep them moist.
What can I substitute for pork and beans?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can use navy beans or black beans instead. Just make sure to season them well to replicate the flavor of traditional pork and beans. You could also try Baked Kidney Beans for a different texture.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding cooked bacon, diced bell peppers, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. If you enjoy tropical flavors, consider trying Baked Beans With Pineapple for a unique twist.
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).