El Rancho Baked Beans
A hearty baked beans dish with ground beef, onions, and a sweet-savory tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown and crumble the ground beef with chopped onions in a skillet.
- Add salt, garlic salt, spices, brown sugar, ketchup, cider vinegar, and optional green pepper.
- Mix in the canned pork and beans and kidney beans.
- Transfer the mixture to a large casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 50 to 60 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or diced green bell peppers to the mix. If you're out of brown sugar, honey or maple syrup can serve as a suitable substitute. Adjust the spices according to your preference; smoked paprika can add a nice touch. This dish can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day, similar to other hearty American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
El Rancho Baked Beans make a hearty main dish, perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. Serve it alongside cornbread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For an added kick, consider pairing with coleslaw. This dish also complements grilled meats, making it a great side for summer barbecues or a comforting option for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover El Rancho Baked Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply transfer to a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. This dish freezes well, too, for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of El Rancho Baked Beans contains roughly 575 calories, with 19g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 772mg per serving (34% 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 turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative to beef in this recipe. It will still provide a hearty texture while being leaner. Season it well, as turkey can be milder in flavor. Consider using extra spices to enhance the dish.
Is it necessary to use Van Camp's pork and beans?
While Van Camp's pork and beans add a specific flavor, you can substitute them with any other brand of canned pork and beans. Just ensure they are similar in taste and consistency. Alternatively, homemade beans can work if you have the time.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make El Rancho Baked Beans vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with a mix of lentils or mushrooms for added texture. Use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based ingredients. Ensure you select vegetarian-friendly canned beans to maintain the dish's integrity.
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).