Martha'S Baked Beans
A hearty baked beans dish featuring ground meat, bell peppers, and barbecue sauce, perfect for casual gatherings or comforting family dinners with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat in a skillet.
- Drain the meat in a colander.
- Saute the bell pepper and onion in the same skillet.
- Combine the cooked meat, bell pepper, onion, and pork and beans in a bowl.
- Add barbecue sauce to the mixture to make it soupy.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch glass dish.
- Bake at 350°F until it bubbles, then turn the heat down to 300°F.
- Continue baking for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter option. You can substitute the bell pepper with diced jalapeños for some heat. If you want a sweeter flavor, add a splash of maple syrup or honey. Adjust the barbecue sauce to your taste, and consider using a smoky variety for depth. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted based on your pantry ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked beans as a hearty side dish at your next barbecue or potluck. They pair beautifully with grilled meats, such as Barbecue Pork Ribs, or alongside a fresh salad like Cheddar Broccoli Salad. For a complete meal, consider adding cornbread or coleslaw to balance the flavors. These beans are also a great topping for baked potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings in a microwave-safe dish, covered loosely, for 1-2 minutes. If the beans seem dry, add a splash of water or barbecue sauce to loosen them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Martha'S Baked Beans contains roughly 55 calories, with 2g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (107% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the ground meat and adding extra vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini. You could also use canned lentils for added protein. Make sure to check your barbecue sauce for any meat-based ingredients or opt for a vegetarian brand.
How can I make these baked beans spicier?
To add some heat, include chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture before baking. You can also opt for a spicy barbecue sauce to enhance the flavor. If you prefer a smoky heat, consider adding chipotle powder or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
Can I prepare these baked beans in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).