Nothing beats the hearty comfort of baked beans with ground beef when you’re craving a soul-warming meal that feeds the whole family. This protein-packed twist on the classic baked bean recipe transforms an ordinary side dish into a complete, satisfying dinner that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
We’ve perfected this recipe to deliver the ideal balance of smoky-sweet beans and savory ground beef that creates the ultimate comfort food experience. The rich molasses and brown sugar create that signature sticky-sweet sauce while the beef adds substantial protein and flavor depth that makes this dish incredibly filling.
Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, potluck dinner, or just want a make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day, our ground beef baked beans recipe delivers every time. It’s the kind of crowd-pleasing dish that turns any gathering into a memorable feast.
Ingredients
We’ve carefully selected each ingredient to create the perfect balance of flavors in our baked beans with ground beef recipe. These components work together to deliver that signature smoky-sweet taste with hearty protein.
For the Baked Beans
- 2 cans (28 oz each) baked beans in sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Ground Beef
- 1 pound lean ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Equipment Needed
We need just a few essential kitchen tools to create this hearty baked beans with ground beef dish. Our cooking process becomes seamless when we gather these items before starting.
A large skillet or Dutch oven serves as our primary cooking vessel for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions. This piece of equipment needs enough surface area to properly cook the meat without overcrowding.
Our casserole dish or oven-safe pot becomes crucial for the baking stage. We recommend using a dish that holds at least 2-3 quarts to accommodate all ingredients comfortably.
A mixing bowl helps us combine ingredients thoroughly before transferring to the baking dish. Choose one large enough to hold all components without spillage.
We rely on a sturdy spoon or spatula for stirring ingredients and breaking up ground beef during cooking. Wooden or heat-resistant silicone options work best for this recipe.
Measuring spoons ensure accurate seasoning ratios throughout our dish. Having a complete set allows us to measure brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and spices precisely.
Finally, our oven needs to maintain consistent temperature at 350°F (175°C) for proper baking. Most standard home ovens handle this recipe perfectly within the specified cooking time of 1 to 1 hour 15 minutes.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready and equipment set up, let’s walk through the simple steps to create this hearty dish that transforms ordinary baked beans into an extraordinary meal.
Prep the Ground Beef
We start by heating our large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the 1 pound of lean ground beef to the hot pan and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with our spatula as it browns. This process typically takes 6 to 8 minutes. Once the beef is fully cooked, we drain any excess liquid and set the meat aside on a plate.
If we’re using bacon for extra flavor, we cook 6 strips first until crispy, then remove most of the rendered fat, leaving just enough to sauté our vegetables. We then add the diced onions and green bell peppers to the same pan and cook them in the remaining bacon fat until they become soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Prepare the Bean Base
We open our 2 cans of baked beans (about 28 oz each) and pour them into a large mixing bowl, keeping all that delicious sauce. Next, we add our flavor enhancers: brown sugar for sweetness, ketchup for richness, apple cider vinegar for tang, yellow mustard for depth, Worcestershire sauce for umami, molasses for complexity, and liquid smoke for that outdoor barbecue taste.
We mix these seasonings thoroughly with the sautéed vegetables if using them, creating a flavorful base that will coat every bean perfectly. The sauce should have a balanced sweet and tangy profile at this stage.
Combine and Season
We add our cooked ground beef back to the Dutch oven along with the seasoned bean mixture. Using our sturdy spoon, we stir everything together until the beef is evenly distributed throughout the beans. The mixture should look rich and well combined.
Now we taste and adjust our seasonings with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper if desired. We add more brown sugar if we prefer a sweeter profile or more vinegar if we want extra tang. This is our chance to customize the flavor to our family’s preferences.
Bake the Beans
We have several cooking options to finish our dish. For stovetop cooking, we simmer the mixture uncovered on low heat for 10 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the sauce to thicken naturally.
For oven baking, we transfer the mixture to our preheated 350°F (175°C) oven in an oven-safe pot and bake until bubbly and heated through, approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. We can also use a slow cooker by cooking on high for 1 hour or on low for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
The beans are ready when the sauce has thickened to our desired consistency and all flavors have melded together beautifully. For outdoor cooking enthusiasts, we can keep the finished beans warm on a grill or smoker to add an authentic smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste experience.
Cooking Tips and Variations
These simple techniques and creative modifications will help you master this hearty dish and make it uniquely yours. We’ve tested various approaches to ensure your baked beans with ground beef turn out perfectly every time.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We recommend preparing the entire baked beans mixture in advance for stress-free meal planning. Cook the ground beef completely and combine it with all the beans and seasonings in your casserole dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before your planned serving time.
When you’re ready to serve, remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. Add a splash of water or beef broth if the mixture appears too thick after refrigeration. Reheat gently in your preheated 350°F oven for 25-35 minutes until the beans are steaming hot and bubbly around the edges.
For slow cooker enthusiasts, we suggest assembling all ingredients directly in your slow cooker insert. Store the prepared insert in the refrigerator overnight, then cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour the next day. This method works particularly well for potluck gatherings where you need to transport the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage ensures your leftover baked beans maintain their rich flavor and hearty texture. Store cooled leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. We always label our containers with the preparation date to track freshness accurately.
For longer storage, transfer completely cooled beans to freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of headspace for expansion. Your frozen baked beans will maintain quality for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | 40°F or below |
| Freezer | 2-3 months | 0°F or below |
Reheat refrigerated beans on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a small amount of water or broth if needed to restore the proper consistency. For frozen beans, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the same stovetop method. Alternatively, reheat in a 325°F oven for 20-30 minutes until heated through, covering with foil to prevent the top from drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Our hearty baked beans with ground beef transforms into the perfect centerpiece for countless dining occasions. We recommend serving this rich and smoky dish as either a satisfying main course or as a substantial side dish that complements other barbecue favorites.
As a Main Dish
We love pairing our baked beans with ground beef alongside warm cornbread for a complete comfort meal. The sweetness of the cornbread perfectly balances the savory and slightly tangy flavors of the beans. Fresh dinner rolls or crusty bread also work wonderfully for soaking up every bit of the delicious sauce.
Barbecue and Grilling Companions
Our recipe shines brightest at outdoor gatherings where it pairs beautifully with grilled meats. We suggest serving it alongside barbecued ribs, pulled pork, or grilled chicken for an authentic backyard feast. The beans complement smoky flavors while adding protein and heartiness to the meal.
Potluck and Family Gathering Presentation
We find this dish travels exceptionally well to potluck dinners and family reunions. Transfer the finished beans to a slow cooker on the warm setting to keep them at the perfect serving temperature throughout the event. The generous portions make it ideal for feeding large crowds.
Garnish and Finishing Touches
We recommend improving the visual appeal by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions over the top before serving. These bright garnishes add color contrast and a fresh flavor note that cuts through the richness of the dish.
Spice Level Customization
For guests who enjoy more heat, we suggest offering hot sauce or diced jalapeños on the side. This allows everyone to customize their portion according to their spice preferences without overwhelming those who prefer milder flavors.
Seasonal Serving Ideas
During cooler months, we serve our baked beans with ground beef in deep bowls alongside hearty winter vegetables. In summer, the dish works perfectly at outdoor picnics served at room temperature, making it both versatile and practical for year-round enjoyment.
Conclusion
We’ve shared everything you need to create this incredible baked beans with ground beef recipe that’ll become a staple in your kitchen. This versatile dish works perfectly whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or preparing for your next big gathering.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility – you can customize the spice level make it ahead of time and even adapt it for different cooking methods. From stovetop to slow cooker to outdoor grilling there’s a preparation method that fits your schedule and preferences.
With proper storage techniques you’ll have delicious leftovers that taste even better the next day. We’re confident this hearty comfort food will earn its place among your family’s favorite recipes bringing everyone together around the dinner table time and time again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes baked beans with ground beef different from regular baked beans?
Adding ground beef transforms regular baked beans into a hearty, protein-rich main dish. The beef adds savory depth and makes the dish more filling, while the smoky-sweet sauce balances perfectly with the meat’s richness. This combination creates a satisfying meal that can feed a whole family.
Can I make baked beans with ground beef ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for make-ahead meal planning. You can prepare the entire mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight, making it taste even better the next day. Simply reheat when ready to serve.
What equipment do I need to make this recipe?
You’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven for browning beef, a casserole dish for baking, and a mixing bowl for combining ingredients. Essential tools include a sturdy spoon for stirring, measuring spoons for seasonings, and an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long does it take to cook baked beans with ground beef?
The total cooking time is about 1 to 1 hour 15 minutes in the oven at 350°F. You can also simmer on the stovetop for 30-45 minutes or use a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours, depending on your preferred cooking method.
What are the best serving suggestions for this dish?
Serve as a main dish with cornbread or as a barbecue side alongside grilled meats. It’s perfect for potlucks and family gatherings when kept warm in a slow cooker. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, and customize spice levels with hot sauce or jalapeños.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat refrigerated beans in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water. For frozen beans, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the same methods.
Can I customize the recipe for different spice levels?
Absolutely! The recipe includes optional cayenne pepper for heat. You can adjust spice levels by adding hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or extra chili powder. For milder versions, reduce or omit the spicy ingredients while maintaining the smoky-sweet flavor profile.
What type of ground beef works best for this recipe?
Lean ground beef is recommended to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy. The beef should be seasoned with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder before browning to enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
