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Baked Beans with Ground Beef

This hearty and flavorful dish is the perfect balance of savory and sweet, combining tender ground beef, tangy baked beans, and rich seasonings. Ideal for backyard BBQs, potlucks, or comforting weeknight dinners, it’s a crowd-pleaser with customizable twists. Pair it with cornbread, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes for the ultimate meal experience.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 recommended
  • 2 cans 15 oz each baked beans
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar or molasses for a deeper flavor
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce or ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp mustard optional, for a tangy twist
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers optional, for added sweetness and color
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 slices cooked bacon crumbled (optional, for smoky flavor)

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Wooden spoon (for stirring and breaking up the beef)
  • Casserole dish or oven-safe skillet
  • Cutting board and knife (for chopping onions, garlic, and optional vegetables)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven (preheated to 350°F / 175°C)
  • Spatula (for serving)

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned.
  2. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
  3. Drain excess fat from the beef mixture, leaving a small amount for flavor.
  4. Stir in the baked beans, brown sugar (or molasses), BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard if using.
  5. Season with salt and pepper. Add optional ingredients like bell peppers or bacon for extra flavor.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish or leave it in an oven-safe skillet.
  8. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, allowing the top to caramelize slightly and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

Variations: For a Southern twist, swap brown sugar for molasses and add smoked sausage. Or go Tex-Mex by adding chili powder, cumin, and jalapeños.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tip: Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) with a splash of water or beef broth to maintain moisture.
Feel free to ask if you’d like any adjustments or additional variations!