Introduction: A Family Classic Reinvented
Baked Beans with Ground Beef isn’t just a meal in our home; it’s a beloved tradition, a dish we turn to for comfort, connection, and those moments that matter most. This version has been perfected over the years, combining rich, savory beef with smoky, sweet beans and a luscious sauce that brings everything together. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving something cozy on a quiet evening, this dish delivers warmth and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients: The Flavor Foundation
Protein & Base:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 for best texture)
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
Vegetables & Aromatics:
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Beans (Variety Adds Texture):
- 2 cans (28 oz each) pork and beans (undrained)
- 1 can (15.5 oz) kidney beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 can (15.5 oz) Great Northern or Cannellini beans, drained & rinsed
Sauce Mixture:
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Pro Tip: Swap in black beans or pinto beans for different textures. Add a splash of dark beer to the sauce for depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or Dutch oven.
2. Crisp the Bacon: Cook chopped bacon over medium heat until golden and crispy (8–10 minutes). Remove with slotted spoon. Reserve 2 tbsp bacon fat.
3. Brown the Ground Beef: In the same skillet, cook ground beef in reserved fat until browned and cooked through (7–10 minutes). Drain excess grease.
4. Sauté Vegetables: Add onion and bell pepper to beef. Cook 6–8 minutes until soft. Add garlic in final minute until fragrant.
5. Mix the Beans & Sauce: In a large bowl or Dutch oven, combine pork and beans (undrained), kidney beans, and Northern beans. Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire, mustard, paprika, chili powder, and pepper.
6. Combine Everything: Add beef-veggie mixture to beans. Stir until fully combined. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
7. Assemble & Bake: Transfer mixture to baking dish if not using Dutch oven. Top with crispy bacon. Cover with foil/lid and bake for 45 minutes.
8. Finish Uncovered: Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 25–30 minutes until caramelized on top and bubbling.
9. Rest & Garnish: Let cool 10–15 minutes. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 510 kcal |
| Protein | 26g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Sodium | 880mg |
Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimates. Use a nutrition calculator for precise tracking.
Prep & Cook Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 25–30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20–45 minutes
- Resting Time: 10–15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
How to Serve Baked Beans with Ground Beef
As a Main Dish:
- Serve in bowls with cornbread or biscuits
- Add a crisp coleslaw or garden salad
- Pair with sautéed greens or steamed veggies
As a Side Dish:
- Perfect with BBQ meats like ribs, chicken, or brisket
- Serve with burgers or hot dogs for a classic cookout
- Great alongside fried chicken or grilled sausages
Fun Serving Ideas:
- Use as filling for baked potatoes
- Top with shredded cheese or green onions
- Set up a “baked bean bar” with toppings like sour cream, bacon, jalapeños, and cheddar
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in airtight container
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in sealed containers or bags
Reheat: Microwave or oven at 325°F until warmed through. Add splash of water or broth if too thick.
Variations & Twists
Tex-Mex Style: Add taco seasoning, corn, and jalapeños
Maple BBQ Beans: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup and add a dash of BBQ sauce
Vegetarian: Omit beef and bacon; replace with sautéed mushrooms and use vegetarian beans + soy sauce
Tips for Success
Deglaze the Pan: Use beef broth or beer after sautéing to scrape flavorful bits from skillet.
Adjust Sweetness/Tang: More sugar = sweeter; more vinegar = tangier. Taste before baking.
Slow Cooker Version: Combine everything and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4.
Make Ahead: Assemble the day before, refrigerate, and bake when needed.
Add Heat or Smoke: Use chipotle powder, cayenne, or liquid smoke for a spicier or smokier version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Yes. They’re leaner, so add olive oil when cooking for moisture.
Is it freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Thaw overnight and reheat in oven or microwave.
How do I fix too-thin sauce?
Bake uncovered longer or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
What if the sauce is too thick?
Add warm water, broth, or ketchup to loosen before baking.
Can I prep it ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Final Thought
Whether you’re bringing a dish to a family gathering, prepping a cozy weekend dinner, or planning a hearty meal-prep option, this Baked Beans with Ground Beef recipe is the kind of go-to you’ll rely on time and again. It’s rich, flavorful, and rooted in home-cooked goodness. Enjoy