Hungry Jack Beef
Hearty and flavorful baked beef dish with beans, cheese, and biscuits, perfect for comforting family dinners and casual gatherings with bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook hamburger and chopped onion in a skillet until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add all remaining ingredients except cheese and biscuits to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for several minutes to meld flavors.
- Transfer the mixture into a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Arrange refrigerator biscuits on top of the beef and bean mixture.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes, or until biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the beef mixture. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the crushed red pepper or omit it entirely. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger for a lighter option. To save time, use pre-chopped onions or frozen vegetables. This dish can also be made in a slow cooker for a hands-off approach.
Serving Suggestions
This Hungry Jack Beef dish pairs excellently with a fresh side salad, like Sweet 'N Sour Cabbage Salad, to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, serve with cornbread or a side of roasted vegetables. It’s also great topped with sour cream or diced green onions for added flavor. Consider serving with a light dessert to finish the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until hot, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hungry Jack Beef contains roughly 490 calories, with 11g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (307% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (46% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1159mg per serving (50% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and bean mixture a day in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator and assemble with the biscuits and cheese just before baking. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making it a convenient option for busy nights.
What can I use instead of pork and beans?
If you don't have pork and beans on hand, you can substitute with any canned beans of your choice, such as kidney beans, black beans, or even chili beans. For a twist, consider using baked beans for a sweeter flavor profile.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled dish before baking or after it's been cooked. To freeze before baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. For baked leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Reheat directly from frozen or thaw in the fridge overnight.
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).