Nothing beats the comfort of hearty baked beans simmering away in your crockpot, especially when they’re loaded with savory ground beef. We’ve perfected this easy one-pot wonder that transforms simple ingredients into a rich, satisfying meal that’ll have your family asking for seconds.
This crockpot baked beans with ground beef recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the beans to absorb all those incredible flavors while the ground beef adds protein and substance that makes this dish a complete meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at your next barbecue or looking for an effortless weeknight dinner, this recipe has you covered.
We love how versatile this dish is – serve it as a main course with cornbread, bring it to potlucks, or use it as the perfect side for grilled meats. The best part? Your crockpot does all the work while you go about your day.
Ingredients
We’ve carefully selected each ingredient to create the perfect balance of smoky sweetness and hearty protein in our crockpot baked beans. Our recipe combines simple pantry staples with fresh ingredients to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
For the Ground Beef
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Baked Beans
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) baked beans in sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
Equipment Needed
Making our hearty crockpot baked beans with ground beef requires just a few essential kitchen tools that most home cooks already have on hand. We’ve streamlined this list to include only what you truly need for success.
Essential Equipment:
- Crockpot or slow cooker (4-6 quart capacity works best)
- Large skillet or frying pan for browning meat
- Wooden stirring spoon or heat-resistant spatula
- Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
- Cutting board (preferably separate for meat prep)
- Can opener for opening bean cans
- Standard measuring cups and spoons
- Colander for draining beans
The crockpot serves as our star player for this recipe since it allows all flavors to meld together slowly over several hours. We recommend using a 4 to 6 quart slow cooker to accommodate the full batch without overcrowding.
Our skillet becomes crucial for properly browning the ground beef and sautéing the aromatics before they join the slow cooking process. This initial step creates the foundation of deep flavors that make this dish exceptional.
Basic measuring tools ensure we achieve the perfect balance of sweet and savory elements in our sauce. Accurate measurements of brown sugar, barbecue sauce, and seasonings create the signature taste that makes this recipe a crowd favorite.
A sturdy colander helps us properly drain the kidney, pinto, and black beans while keeping the baked beans with their flavorful sauce intact. This simple step prevents our final dish from becoming too watery while maintaining the rich consistency we want.
Instructions
Now we’ll walk through the simple steps to create our flavorful crockpot baked beans with ground beef. Each stage builds upon the last to develop rich depth of flavor.
Prep the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the 1 pound of ground beef. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks until fully browned and crumbly, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat from the skillet, leaving just enough to coat the pan.
Add the diced onion to the same skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
Prepare the Bean Mixture
Open and drain the kidney beans, pinto beans, and black beans in a colander, rinsing them under cold water. Set the drained beans aside while we prepare the sauce components.
Combine the brown sugar, ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika in a large mixing bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until the brown sugar dissolves completely and the mixture forms a smooth sauce. Stir in the barbecue sauce and crumbled bacon pieces until evenly distributed.
Combine Ingredients in Crockpot
Transfer the cooked ground beef mixture directly into your 4-6 quart crockpot. Add the two cans of baked beans in sauce without draining them, as this liquid contributes to the overall richness.
Pour the drained kidney beans, pinto beans, and black beans into the crockpot. Add the prepared sauce mixture and stir everything together with a wooden spoon until all ingredients are evenly coated and distributed throughout the pot.
Slow Cook the Baked Beans
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set the temperature to LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours. Stir the mixture once halfway through cooking time to ensure even heat distribution and prevent sticking.
Check for doneness when the beans are heated through completely and the sauce has thickened to coat the back of a spoon. The flavors should be well melded together, creating a rich and savory aroma that fills your kitchen.
Cooking Times and Temperatures
Proper timing transforms our hearty baked bean mixture into a perfectly melded dish where every flavor harmonizes beautifully. We recommend cooking on low heat for 4 to 5 hours as our preferred method since this allows the sweeteners to caramelize slowly while the spices develop their full depth.
High heat cooking for 2 to 3 hours works well when time constraints demand faster results. The shorter cooking window still produces excellent flavor integration though we notice slightly less caramelization of the brown sugar and barbecue sauce.
Our slow cooker maintains consistent temperatures that make timing predictable across different models:
| Heat Setting | Cooking Time | Internal Temperature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low | 4-5 hours | 190-200°F | Maximum flavor development |
| High | 2-3 hours | 280-300°F | Quick weeknight meals |
Temperature monitoring becomes less critical since our beans arrive pre-cooked from their cans. The slow cooking process focuses on heating the mixture thoroughly while melding all flavor components rather than cooking raw ingredients.
We start checking our beans after the minimum recommended time by stirring gently and tasting for flavor balance. The sauce should coat the beans generously without appearing watery or overly thick. Steam rising steadily from the surface indicates proper heating throughout the mixture.
Extended cooking beyond our recommended timeframes rarely improves the dish since the beans can become mushy while the sauce may reduce too much. We achieve optimal results by following these tested timing guidelines that account for ingredient temperature before cooking and standard crockpot performance variations.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We love preparing this hearty dish ahead of time to simplify our busy schedules and enhance the flavors. The make-ahead approach allows us to complete most of the prep work when convenient while ensuring our baked beans taste even better when served.
Brown the Ground Beef in Advance
Our first step involves browning the ground beef with onions and garlic up to 24 hours before serving. We cook this mixture completely in our skillet and allow it to cool before transferring to an airtight container for refrigeration. This pre-cooking step saves valuable time on the day we plan to serve the dish.
Assemble Everything the Night Before
We combine all ingredients directly in our crockpot insert the evening before cooking. The pre-cooked ground beef mixture gets added along with all the beans, sauce ingredients, and seasonings. We mix everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.
Overnight Refrigeration Process
After assembling all ingredients in the crockpot insert, we cover it tightly with plastic wrap or the crockpot lid. The entire insert goes into our refrigerator overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen while we sleep. This overnight marination creates more complex and richer taste profiles in our finished beans.
Day of Cooking Setup
When ready to cook, we simply remove the crockpot insert from the refrigerator and place it directly onto the heating base. The cold insert needs no additional prep time before we start the cooking process. We set our crockpot to low heat for 4 to 5 hours or high heat for 2 to 3 hours, following the same timing guidelines as our fresh preparation method.
Storage Timeline
| Prep Stage | Refrigeration Time | Storage Method |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked meat mixture only | Up to 24 hours | Airtight container |
| Fully assembled beans | Overnight (8-12 hours) | Covered crockpot insert |
| Complete dish after cooking | Up to 3 days | Refrigerator storage |
This make-ahead strategy transforms our cooking day from a multi-step process into a simple set-and-forget operation that delivers exceptional results every time.
Serving Suggestions
Our crockpot baked beans with ground beef transforms into the perfect centerpiece for countless dining occasions. We recommend serving these hearty beans warm as a substantial side dish that complements grilled meats beautifully. The rich combination of ground beef and smoky flavors pairs exceptionally well with barbecue favorites like ribs, chicken, or hamburgers.
Barbecue gatherings benefit tremendously from this protein-packed dish. We often present it alongside traditional sides, where the beans hold their own against classic coleslaw and potato salad. Family dinners become more satisfying when we include this filling accompaniment that bridges the gap between side dish and main course.
Fresh garnishes elevate the presentation and add bright flavor notes. We sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the top just before serving. These herbs provide a pop of color and freshness that balances the rich, savory beans perfectly.
Transforming the beans into a complete meal requires minimal effort. We serve generous portions over steamed rice for a hearty dinner that satisfies even the hungriest appetites. Warm cornbread makes an ideal companion, allowing diners to soak up every drop of the flavorful sauce.
Creative serving applications expand the versatility of this dish. We use the beans as a filling for loaded baked potatoes, creating a restaurant-quality meal at home. The mixture also works wonderfully as a base for sloppy joes, adding extra protein and flavor to the classic sandwich.
Potluck events showcase this dish beautifully since it travels well and stays warm in the crockpot. We often bring it to gatherings where it consistently receives requests for the recipe. The combination of convenience and exceptional flavor makes it our go-to contribution for community meals and family reunions.
Storage and Reheating Tips
We know that proper storage extends the life of our delicious crockpot baked beans with ground beef while maintaining their rich flavors. Cool the beans completely before transferring them to storage containers to prevent condensation and bacterial growth.
Refrigerator Storage: Place our cooled baked beans in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. The beans maintain their texture and flavor throughout this period when stored properly.
Freezer Storage: For longer storage we recommend freezing the beans in airtight freezer safe containers for up to 2 to 3 months. Portion the beans into meal sized containers before freezing to make reheating more convenient.
| Storage Method | Duration | Container Type |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Airtight containers |
| Freezer | 2-3 months | Freezer-safe containers |
Reheating on the Stovetop: Transfer the beans to a saucepan and reheat over medium heat while stirring occasionally until heated throughout. Add a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce if the beans appear dry during reheating.
Microwave Reheating: Place the beans in a microwave safe dish and cover to prevent splattering. Heat in 30 second intervals while stirring halfway through until the beans reach the desired temperature.
Thawing Frozen Beans: Thaw frozen beans overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for optimal results. This gradual thawing process preserves the texture of both the beans and ground beef.
Our baked beans actually improve in flavor after a day or two of storage as the ingredients continue to meld together. Adding moisture during reheating ensures the beans retain their original consistency and prevents them from becoming too thick or dry.
Recipe Variations
We love adapting this classic crockpot baked beans recipe to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. These variations maintain the hearty comfort of the original while adding exciting new flavors and options.
Spicy Version
We transform our baked beans into a fiery favorite by incorporating diced jalapeños or poblano peppers directly into the crockpot. The peppers add both heat and texture to every bite. Our spicy blend combines 4 cans of baked beans with jalapeños, onion, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and hot sauce for bold flavor that builds with each spoonful.
Additional spices elevate the heat profile significantly. We mix in chili powder, garlic powder, and your preferred hot sauce to taste. The beauty of this variation lies in customizing the spice level to your preferences. Start with smaller amounts and adjust upward during the cooking process.
Vegetarian Alternative
We create a protein-packed vegetarian version by omitting the ground beef and bacon entirely. Our plant-based approach uses a combination of canned beans including kidney beans, pinto beans, and baked beans for substantial texture and nutrition.
Diced bell peppers and onions replace the meat while providing satisfying crunch and flavor depth. We enhance the taste profile with extra spices like smoked paprika or chili powder that deliver the smoky essence typically provided by bacon. Maple syrup substitutes for brown sugar, creating a sweeter plant-based option that complements the bean medley perfectly.
Different Bean Options
We experiment with various bean combinations to create unique textures and flavors in our crockpot creation. Kidney beans add hearty texture and visual appeal with their deep red color. Pinto beans offer a creamier texture when we want to replace kidney beans for a softer consistency.
Butter beans contribute mild flavor and luxurious creaminess that balances the robust sauce perfectly. We sometimes substitute pork and beans for traditional baked beans, though this requires increasing the brown sugar and mustard to maintain proper flavor balance. Each bean variety brings distinct characteristics that allow us to customize our dish based on availability and personal preferences.
Troubleshooting Tips
Even the most straightforward crockpot recipes can present challenges, but we’ve compiled answers to the most common issues you might encounter when making baked beans with ground beef.
Beans Turn Out Mushy
Canned baked beans hold their shape better than dried beans during extended slow cooking. We recommend using Bush’s brand or similar high-quality canned baked beans as your base since they maintain their texture throughout the cooking process. Starting with pre-cooked beans prevents the breakdown that often occurs when cooking raw beans in a crockpot for several hours.
Dish Becomes Too Greasy
Drain your cooked ground beef thoroughly before adding it to the crockpot. The 80/20 ground beef blend contains enough fat to add flavor, but excess grease creates an unappetizing film on top of your beans. We suggest patting the cooked beef with paper towels after draining to remove any remaining grease.
Flavors Taste Unbalanced
Adjust the brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar gradually to achieve your preferred balance of sweet, tangy, and savory elements. Start with our recommended measurements, then taste and modify during the last hour of cooking. Brown sugar adds sweetness, mustard provides tang, and vinegar brightens all the flavors.
Ground Beef Has Poor Texture
Brown the meat completely in your skillet before transferring to the crockpot. This separate browning step ensures even cooking and prevents the rubbery texture that results from cooking raw ground beef directly in the slow cooker. The meat should develop a nice crust and lose all pink color before joining the bean mixture.
Beans Cook Too Long
Follow our recommended cooking times precisely: 4 to 5 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high. Extended cooking beyond these timeframes can cause beans to break down and the sauce to reduce excessively. Check your beans at the minimum recommended time to assess doneness and prevent overcooking.
Aromatics Lack Depth
Sauté your onions, garlic, and peppers in the same skillet used for browning the beef before adding them to the crockpot. This extra step develops deeper flavors and better aroma compared to adding raw vegetables directly to the slow cooker. The residual beef fat in the pan adds another layer of flavor to these aromatics.
Heat Level Too Intense
Add jalapeños or hot sauce gradually, starting with small amounts. We recommend beginning with half the suggested quantity of spicy ingredients, then increasing during the final hour of cooking if more heat is desired. Remember that slow cooking intensifies spicy flavors over time.
Conclusion
This crockpot baked beans recipe with ground beef delivers everything we love about comfort food – rich flavors minimal effort and guaranteed satisfaction. We’ve shown you how simple ingredients transform into something extraordinary when given time to develop in your slow cooker.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd at your next barbecue or looking for an easy weeknight dinner this recipe adapts to any occasion. The make-ahead options and storage tips ensure you’ll always have a delicious meal ready when you need it.
We’re confident this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of tender beans savory ground beef and that perfectly balanced sweet-smoky sauce creates a dish that consistently impresses family and friends alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I cook crockpot baked beans with ground beef?
Cook on low heat for 4-5 hours for maximum flavor development, or on high heat for 2-3 hours for quicker preparation. The slow cooking process focuses on heating pre-cooked beans thoroughly and melding flavors. Check after the minimum time to ensure the sauce coats the beans well without being watery or overly thick.
Can I make crockpot baked beans ahead of time?
Yes! Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic up to 24 hours in advance and store in an airtight container. You can also assemble all ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before and refrigerate overnight. This allows flavors to meld and transforms cooking into a simple set-and-forget operation.
What equipment do I need for this recipe?
You’ll need a 4-6 quart crockpot, large skillet for browning meat, wooden spoon, sharp knife, cutting board, can opener, measuring cups and spoons, and a colander for draining beans. The crockpot is essential for melding flavors, while the skillet creates the flavor foundation through browning.
How do I store and reheat leftover baked beans?
Cool completely before storing in airtight containers. Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat on stovetop over medium heat or in microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness. The flavors actually improve after a day or two of storage.
What are some good serving suggestions for this dish?
Serve as a substantial side dish with grilled meats at barbecues. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for presentation. Create a complete meal by serving over steamed rice or with warm cornbread. You can also use as filling for baked potatoes or as a base for sloppy joes.
Can I make a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef and bacon with a mix of additional canned beans and vegetables. Use the same sauce ingredients and cooking method. You can add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or other vegetables to maintain hearty texture while keeping the rich, smoky flavors.
What should I do if my beans turn out too watery or mushy?
For watery beans, remove the lid and cook on high for 15-30 minutes to reduce excess liquid. For mushy beans, avoid overcooking and use gentle stirring. Next time, check beans at minimum cooking time and reduce heat if needed. Properly drained beans prevent excess moisture.
