As the sun set, casting a warm glow over the backyard, I knew it was time to fire up the grill. I was ready to gather my family for a summer feast. My signature baked beans with hamburger meat was the highlight of the meal.
This recipe has been a staple in our household for years. It brings smiles and satisfied bellies to every gathering.
Baked beans with ground beef is a classic comfort food. It’s perfect for any potluck, backyard barbecue, or family dinner. This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the sweetness of baked beans.
It’s a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a simple side dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Table of Contents
The Perfect Comfort Side Dish: Baked Beans with Hamburger Meat
Baked beans with ground beef is a classic comfort food. It’s a mix of beans and hamburger meat that’s both satisfying and versatile. It’s perfect for family gatherings or any event where you want to impress.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This recipe stands out because of its perfect flavor and texture mix. Sweet and savory notes from brown sugar and ketchup make it irresistible. Adding ground beef makes it a more filling meal.
Benefits of Combining Beans and Ground Beef
Combining baked beans with ground beef boosts the dish’s taste and nutrition. Beans add fiber, protein, and vitamins, while ground beef adds protein and iron. This makes it a hearty side dish that can also be a comfort food main course.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 236 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Sodium | 610mg |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 13g |
“This recipe has been a summer staple for over a decade and remains one of the most requested side dishes at our family gatherings.”
Essential Ingredients for Your Homemade Baked Beans
Creating homemade baked beans with hamburger meat starts with the right ingredients. This dish is all about mixing sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Let’s explore the key ingredients that make this recipe special.
Navy beans are at the heart of the dish. They’re tender and soak up the sauce well. You can use canned baked beans, like Bush’s Original, for convenience.
Ground beef adds heartiness and flavor. You’ll need about 1 1/2 pounds. You can also try sausage or venison. Browning the meat makes it deliciously textured.
- 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef
- 2 (16-oz) cans of pork and beans
- 6-8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
The dish also includes onion, ketchup, brown sugar, and more. These ingredients create a perfect balance of flavors. They make the baked beans irresistible.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 1/2 pounds |
| Canned pork and beans | 2 (16-oz) cans |
| Bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional) | 6-8 slices |
| Onion, diced | 1 large |
| Ketchup | 1/2 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Mustard | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
With these ingredients, you’re set to make delicious baked beans with hamburger. This dish will impress your family and friends with its comforting flavors.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make tasty baked beans with hamburger, you need some key kitchen tools. We’ll look at the must-have cookware and some optional tools. These will help make cooking smooth and easy.
Required Cookware
You’ll need a big skillet or Dutch oven. It’s the main pot for cooking the ground beef and mixing all the flavors. Also, a greased casserole dish is needed to bake the beans just right.
Optional Tools for Easier Preparation
While you must have the basic cookware, some optional tools can make things easier. Here are a few:
- Can opener: Makes opening beans and tomatoes cans easy.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Help you measure ingredients accurately.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Good for stirring and mixing in the skillet and casserole.
With these baked beans cookware and kitchen tools for baked beans, you’re ready to make a tasty baked beans dish with hamburger.
| Essential Cookware | Optional Tools |
|---|---|
| Large skillet or Dutch oven | Can opener |
| Greased casserole dish | Measuring cups and spoons |
| Wooden spoon or spatula |
“The right tools can make all the difference in the kitchen, especially when it comes to preparing a comforting and delicious dish like baked beans with ground beef.”
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making homemade baked beans with hamburger is easy and rewarding. It creates a side dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Just follow these simple steps to make this tasty recipe:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the 1 pound of ground beef and diced onion over medium-high heat. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the 3 (15-ounce) cans of pork and beans, 1/2 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of molasses, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- If desired, mix in 2.5 ounces of pre-cooked bacon or 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar for extra flavor.
- Transfer the bean mixture to a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake the baked beans with hamburger uncovered for about 45 minutes. This will thicken the sauce and heat the beans through.
The secret to this baked beans cooking process is letting the flavors blend in the oven. This creates a rich and satisfying side dish. It’s perfect with grilled meats, hot dogs, or your favorite comfort food.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 pound |
| Canned Pork and Beans | 3 (15-ounce) cans |
| Ketchup | 1/2 cup |
| Molasses | 2 tablespoons |
| Brown Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Dijon Mustard | 2 teaspoons |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Pre-cooked Bacon (optional) | 2.5 ounces |
| Apple Cider Vinegar (optional) | 2 tablespoons |
By following these easy steps, you can make a delicious and comforting baked beans with hamburger dish. It will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the perfect mix of savory ground beef, sweet and tangy baked beans, and optional bacon or vinegar for extra flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Beans with Ground Beef
Make your baked beans even better by adding savory ground beef. To get the perfect mix of flavors and textures, follow these tips:
Meat Selection and Preparation
Choose lean ground beef for the best taste. Make sure to drain any extra fat after cooking. This keeps the dish from getting too greasy.
If you want a heartier dish, mix in ground pork or Italian sausage with the beef.
Seasoning Secrets
Season to your liking, considering the sweetness of the canned beans. A bit of cayenne pepper or diced green bell pepper can enhance the flavor. Season the ground beef preparation too, with a mix of spices like steak seasoning, garlic, and onion powder.
Cooking Temperature Guidelines
Simmer the baked beans tips and ground beef mix until it’s the right thickness. Then, bake it at 350°F for about an hour. This lets the flavors blend well. The beans should be hot and the top lightly browned.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb |
| Pork and Beans | 3 cans (16 oz each) |
| Cooking Time | 1 hour at 350°F |
| Servings | 18-20 |
| Calories per Serving | 231 |
By using these baked beans tips and ground beef preparation tips, you’ll make a comforting and tasty baked beans dish. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Variations and Customization Options
Baked beans offer endless customization options. If you want to try something different from the classic recipe, here are some tasty variations:
- Meat Substitutions: Use ground turkey or pork instead of ground beef for a unique taste.
- Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for color and a bit of heat.
- Sweetening the Pot: Adjust the brown sugar or try honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
- Condiment Combinations: Mix different mustards or add your favorite barbecue sauce.
This baked beans recipe is a great base for personalizing your dish. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!
Perfect baked beans come from finding the right flavor balance. Start with the basics and add new elements until you’re happy with the taste.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your homemade baked beans with hamburger meat. Follow these simple tips to keep your leftovers fresh and tasty.
Proper Storage Methods
Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
When freezing, leave some space in the container for expansion. This prevents it from cracking. Thaw frozen beans in the fridge overnight before serving.
Best Reheating Practices
You can reheat baked beans in several ways. For the oven, preheat to 350°F and use an oven-safe dish. Heat for 15-20 minutes until warm. Or, microwave them in a safe container on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
Make sure to heat the beans well before serving. This keeps them hot and preserves the flavors and textures.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your baked beans with hamburger meat even after the first meal. Enjoy the flavors and convenience of this comforting dish, even with leftovers.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Baked beans with hamburger meat are a comforting side dish. They pair well with many main courses. They’re great for backyard barbecues, family gatherings, or potlucks.
Grilled or smoked meats like burgers, hot dogs, or pulled pork go well with them. For a vegetarian option, try them with plant-based meats or a green salad.
Adding side dishes like coleslaw, potato salad, or a green salad can be refreshing. Cornbread or bread are also good, letting you enjoy the bean sauce.
For a special treat, try fried onion rings, jalapeño poppers, or spicy sausage skewers. These side dishes add excitement to your meal.
Choosing the right flavors and textures is key. Try different combinations to find your favorites. This will impress your guests and show off your cooking skills.
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Cornbread | Slightly sweet, with a touch of cornmeal | Soft and crumbly |
| Grilled Pineapple | Sweet and tangy, with a caramelized edge | Juicy and soft |
| Collard Greens | Earthy, with a slight bitterness | Tender, with a slight crunch |
| Avocado Salad | Creamy, with a touch of acidity | Smooth and refreshing |
| Spicy Sausage Skewers | Bold, with a kick of spice | Firm and juicy |
| Pickled Red Onions | Tangy and slightly sweet | Crunchy and acidic |
| Coleslaw | Refreshing and slightly tangy | Crisp and creamy |
| Cheddar Biscuits | Savory, with a cheesy richness | Flaky and buttery |
| Roasted Root Vegetables | Earthy and slightly sweet | Tender and caramelized |
| Jalapeño Poppers | Spicy, with a creamy filling | Crispy and indulgent |
| Fresh Fruit Salad | Sweet and refreshing | Juicy and vibrant |
| Garlic Butter Shrimps | Savory, with a touch of garlic | Tender and succulent |
| Sweet Potato Fries | Sweet and slightly earthy | Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside |
There are many tasty side dishes to go with baked beans and hamburger meat. Try different ones to find your family’s favorite meal.
Conclusion
This easy baked beans with ground beef recipe is a delicious side dish for any occasion. It combines the sweetness of baked beans with the savory taste of ground beef and bacon. This mix creates a dish that everyone will love.
It’s perfect for a backyard barbecue, a cozy family gathering, or just a comforting side dish. The recipe’s rich texture and satisfying flavors make it versatile. You can customize it to fit any taste. So, why not try it and enjoy a homemade baked beans with beef dish?
The secret to a great baked beans with ground beef recipe is using quality ingredients and paying attention to detail. Follow the step-by-step guide and use the pro tips from this article. You’ll make a dish that will be a favorite in your family. Enjoy your homemade baked beans with ground beef and the delicious flavors of this American classic!