Tailgate Baked Beans
Savory baked beans with ground meat, vegetables, and smoky barbecue flavors, perfect for tailgates, barbecues, or casual gatherings that love hearty, flavorful comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the ground sirloin.
- Cook the chopped onion, green pepper, and celery in butter until tender.
- Combine the cooked meat, vegetables, drained pork and beans, ketchup, brown sugar, and barbecue sauce.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of liquid smoke or using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. If you want to make this vegetarian, substitute ground sirloin with plant-based protein or lentils. You can also add spices like chili powder or cumin for extra flavor. Experiment with different types of beans if you want to customize the dish, such as black beans or kidney beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Tailgate Baked Beans as a hearty side at your next barbecue or tailgate party. They pair beautifully with grilled meats or burgers, like in the recipe for Feed-An-Army Beans. You can also serve them alongside cornbread or coleslaw for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the beans in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tailgate Baked Beans contains roughly 1388 calories, with 10g protein, 190g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Tailgate Baked Beans ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply transfer it to a baking dish and pop it in the oven. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the dish even tastier.
What can I substitute for ground sirloin?
If you're looking for alternatives to ground sirloin, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. Adjust the cooking time according to the substitute you choose to ensure everything is cooked properly.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to customize your Tailgate Baked Beans by adding ingredients like diced bacon for extra flavor, or jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also mix in other vegetables, such as diced tomatoes or corn, to enhance the texture and flavor profile.
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).