Grandma Mahaffey'S Baked Beans
A hearty baked bean dish with sweet and smoky flavors, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, combining tender pork, hamburger, and rich seasonings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger with chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add brown sugar, molasses, catsup, cooked pork, and remaining ingredients to the browned meat and onion mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some diced bell peppers to the mixture. If you don't have molasses, maple syrup can be a great substitute, adding a unique sweetness. For a vegetarian version, replace the hamburger with cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of meat. This dish is also wonderful with a dash of smoked paprika for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
These baked beans are a hearty side perfect with grilled meats or as a main dish alongside cornbread. They pair especially well with BBQ ribs or burgers, and a fresh coleslaw can add a nice crunch. For a comforting meal, serve with a side of Mr. Nik'S Hamburger Stuff for a filling feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place in a baking dish and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Mahaffey'S Baked Beans contains roughly 28 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the baked beans a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, bake them directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for even heating.
What kind of pork should I use?
For this dish, any cooked pork works well, such as leftover roast pork or even pulled pork. If you're using raw pork, ensure it's pre-cooked before adding it to the mixture. This will help the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the cooking time manageable.
Is it possible to freeze these baked beans?
Yes, you can freeze baked beans! Cool the beans completely and transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently in the oven or on the stove, stirring occasionally.
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).