Jean'S Fort Valley Beans
Hearty baked beans with savory ground beef, sweet ketchup, and a hint of chili, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Flavorful and comforting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the hamburger until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add water, chopped onion, salt, pepper, chili powder, brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard to the skillet.
- Mix everything well in the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the hamburger. You can also use homemade ketchup or a low-sugar version to reduce sweetness. Adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños can give the dish an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jean's Fort Valley Beans over a bed of rice or with warm cornbread for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Doritos Salad for a crunchy side. You can also top it with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or sour cream for added flavor. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave in a covered dish, stirring every minute to ensure even heating. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jean'S Fort Valley Beans contains roughly 570 calories, with 5g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2348mg per serving (102% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe until the simmering step, then let it cool and store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove or in the oven until heated through. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
What can I serve with Jean's Fort Valley Beans?
Jean's Fort Valley Beans go well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with warm cornbread, rice, or a fresh salad. For a more substantial meal, pair with Cajun Potato Fritters or a side of coleslaw. This dish is versatile and complements many American recipes.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the hamburger with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use diced mushrooms and lentils for a hearty texture. Adjust the seasoning to taste, and keep the rest of the ingredients the same. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian version of Jean's Fort Valley Beans.
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).