Memphis Spicy Baked Beans
Memphis Spicy Baked Beans are a hearty and flavorful dish featuring ground beef, sweet and tangy ketchup, and a hint of spice from chili powder. Perfect for barbecues or family gatherings, these beans bring comfort and bold flavor to any table. Serve them as a side or a main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, onion, and green pepper.
- Drain off fat. Combine beef mixture with remaining ingredients.
- Place in casserole dish and bake in a 350° oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or crumbled tofu. You can also use low-sodium canned beans to reduce the salt content. For a deeper flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce. This recipe can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Memphis Spicy Baked Beans as a hearty side dish at your next barbecue or potluck. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats like ribs or chicken and can be complemented by cornbread for a comforting meal. For an enhanced experience, try serving them alongside dishes like Stuffed Cabbage Rolls or Favorite Meat Loaf for a complete spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the beans in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the beans seem too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen them up. They also freeze well for up to 3 months if stored in a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Memphis Spicy Baked Beans contains roughly 651 calories, with 3g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Memphis Spicy Baked Beans ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance, assemble it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving. This allows the flavors to meld, making the beans even tastier. Be sure to adjust the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
What can I substitute for ground beef in this recipe?
For a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, crumbled tempeh or mushrooms can provide a meaty texture. Additionally, cooked beans, lentils, or quinoa can be great protein-rich substitutes, keeping the dish hearty and delicious.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the baked beans?
If you find the beans too sweet, reduce the brown sugar to 1/4 cup or try using a sugar substitute like maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor profile. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a bit more chili powder or mustard for acidity, which will enhance the overall flavor.
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).