The Ranch Beans
The Ranch Beans offer a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and beans in a spicy picante sauce, seasoned with chili powder and seasoning salt. Perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners, they provide a comforting, protein-rich meal with a touch of Southwestern flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the ground chuck until browned and drain excess fat.
- Saute the onions, bell peppers, and celery until tender.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the ground chuck.
- Stir in the hot picante sauce and bring to a boil.
- Add all remaining ingredients to a large bean pot.
- Cook on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot with cornbread or crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or cumin to the mix. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of hot picante sauce or substitute it with mild salsa. Ground turkey or chicken can also replace the ground chuck for a lighter option. Adjust the chili powder to your spice preference for the perfect kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ranch Beans hot alongside cornbread or crackers for a comforting meal. A fresh green salad or coleslaw makes a great side dish to balance the hearty flavors. For a complete experience, consider pairing it with a refreshing beverage like Hot Cider Punch or a crisp beer.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Ranch Beans contains roughly 1118 calories, with 31g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2404mg per serving (105% 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 dish in advance?
Yes, Ranch Beans can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Once cooled, you can freeze the Ranch Beans in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This makes it a great option for meal prep or quick dinners.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Ranch Beans, substitute the ground chuck with cooked lentils or a meat alternative like crumbled tempeh or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based options, and ensure your picante sauce is also vegetarian.
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).