Gladys' Baked Beans
Gladys' Baked Beans offers a hearty, smoky flavor with tender beans, ground beef, and a sweet-spicy barbecue glaze, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pork and beans, barbecue sauce, browned ground chuck, chopped onion, chili powder, brown sugar, and mustard.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally if desired.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the mix. You can substitute ground turkey for ground chuck for a leaner option. If you prefer a spicier kick, try incorporating diced jalapeños. This dish is versatile, and you can also use any leftover beans from a Bean And Vegetable Soup as a base.
Serving Suggestions
These baked beans are perfect as a hearty side dish for barbecues or family gatherings. Serve alongside grilled meats or pair with Deluxe Hash Browns for a comforting meal. For a complete spread, consider offering cornbread and coleslaw to complement the flavors. They also make a great filling for a baked potato.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked beans 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 them in a covered dish, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gladys' Baked Beans contains roughly 1234 calories, with 10g protein, 261g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (27% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 811mg per serving (35% 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 up to the baking step, cover the dish, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, preheat the oven and bake until heated through. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I substitute for barbecue sauce?
If you don't have barbecue sauce on hand, you can mix ketchup with a bit of apple cider vinegar, honey, and smoked paprika for a quick homemade version. Alternatively, try a tomato-based sauce with spices to create a similar flavor profile.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground chuck with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and lentils for a hearty texture. Use vegetarian barbecue sauce to ensure the dish remains meat-free. This adaptation still delivers a delicious flavor while catering to a plant-based diet.
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).