Name: Baked Beans with Ground Beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans (15 oz each) baked beans; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon); 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/4 cup barbecue sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: 1/2 diced bell pepper, 1 tsp chili powder, or 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a one-pot wonder that’s simple, budget-friendly, and full of flavor. The addition of ground beef makes traditional baked beans more filling and turns them into a complete meal. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings because it’s easy to prepare, reheats beautifully, and tastes even better the next day. Plus, you can adjust the sweetness or spice level to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Canned baked beans
Ketchup
Brown sugar
Mustard (yellow or Dijon)
Worcestershire sauce
Barbecue sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: diced bell pepper, chili powder, or bacon bits for extra flavor

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess fat.
Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and barbecue sauce. Mix until well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes, until bubbly and slightly caramelized on top.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Smoky bacon version: Stir in cooked, chopped bacon for a smoky touch.
Spicy twist: Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños.
Vegetable boost: Include diced bell peppers, carrots, or corn for added texture.
Sweet and tangy: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a spoonful of molasses.
Slow cooker version: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat or microwave until hot, adding a splash of water if needed. This dish also freezes well—store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use canned beans other than baked beans?

Yes, you can use pinto or navy beans; just add extra ketchup, brown sugar, and barbecue sauce for flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the mixture, refrigerate it overnight, and bake it just before serving.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken are leaner alternatives that work great in this recipe.

What barbecue sauce works best?

A smoky or hickory-style barbecue sauce complements the sweetness of the beans nicely.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, omit the beef and add diced vegetables or plant-based crumbles for a meat-free version.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Bake uncovered to reduce liquid or simmer longer on the stove before baking.

Can I serve this as a main dish?

Definitely. The beef makes it hearty enough to serve as a main, especially with cornbread or salad.

What sides go well with baked beans and beef?

Try it with cornbread, coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled vegetables.

Can I cook it all on the stove instead of baking?

Yes, just simmer the mixture over low heat for 20–25 minutes until thickened.

How do I make it extra sweet or smoky?

Add more brown sugar for sweetness or a dash of liquid smoke for depth.

Conclusion

Baked Beans with Ground Beef is a rich, comforting, and flavor-packed meal that’s as versatile as it is delicious. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for feeding a crowd, and sure to become a family favorite. Whether served as a hearty main dish or a standout side at your next cookout, this recipe brings warmth and classic homestyle flavor to the table every time.

Baked Beans with Ground Beef

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Baked Beans with Ground Beef is a hearty, sweet-and-savory comfort dish that turns classic baked beans into a satisfying meal. Featuring ground beef simmered with onions, garlic, and a flavorful mix of ketchup, barbecue sauce, and brown sugar, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or backyard barbecues.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking and Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until browned and tender. Drain excess fat.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and barbecue sauce. Mix well.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and adjust sweetness or spice as desired.
Transfer mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes, until bubbly and slightly caramelized on top.
Let cool slightly before serving warm.

Notes

Add cooked bacon for a smoky flavor boost.
Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
For thicker sauce, bake uncovered or simmer longer before baking.
Customize sweetness with extra brown sugar or tang with apple cider vinegar.
Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months for easy future meals.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 420
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 880mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 7g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 55mg