Meat Beans
Hearty and flavorful meat and bean stew with tender pinto beans, savory ground meat, and a hint of sweetness, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook 1 pound of pinto beans until they are fairly tender.
- Add canned stewed tomatoes, ground meat, and diced onion to the beans.
- Continue cooking until the beans are tender and the meat is cooked through.
- Season with salt and 1 teaspoon of sugar before serving.
- Serve hot, preferably with cornbread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground meat before adding it to the beans. If you're short on time, canned beans can be used as a substitute for dried beans; just reduce the cooking time. Adjust the sugar according to your taste, as it balances the acidity of the tomatoes. For a twist, add spices like cumin or chili powder for a Tex-Mex flair. This dish pairs well with cornbread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat beans hot, ideally alongside cornbread to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding a side salad or some steamed vegetables. This dish also pairs nicely with Jodi'S Minnesota Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can top it with shredded cheese or chopped green onions for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it appears dry. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Freezing is an option as well; just ensure it's in a freezer-safe container, where it can last up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Beans contains roughly 450 calories, with 9g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1044mg per serving (45% 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 use different types of beans?
Yes, you can substitute pinto beans with black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor and texture. Just ensure they are cooked until tender before mixing in the other ingredients. Each type of bean will bring its own unique taste to the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and flavors improve over time. You can make a large batch and portion it out for the week. Just remember to cool it completely before storing to maintain freshness.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes during cooking. Alternatively, serve with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer to control the spice level. This way, everyone can enjoy it at their desired heat level.
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).