Growing up in a Southern kitchen, I learned that some of the most memorable meals come from simple, hearty ingredients. The baked beans recipe with ground beef is one such dish. It captures the essence of comfort food, turning ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience.
This classic baked bean recipe combines lean ground beef, Bush’s Original Baked Beans, and a handful of pantry staples. It creates a meal that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare. With just 10 minutes of total cooking time, you can have a delicious dinner ready for up to 6 hungry people.
What makes this baked beans recipe with ground beef truly special is its ability to bring families together. It offers a perfect balance of protein, flavor, and nostalgia. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe promises to become a new household favorite.
Table of Contents
Why This Southern-Style Dish Is a Perfect Comfort Food
Baked beans with ground beef are more than a meal. They are a beloved tradition in Southern cooking. This hearty dish brings families together, filling them with nourishment and nostalgia.
Traditional Southern Cooking Heritage
Southern cuisine values simple, flavorful dishes. Baked beans recipe with ground beef are perfect examples. They use affordable proteins and rich flavors, showing resourcefulness and creativity.
“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness” – Auguste Escoffier
Versatility for Different Occasions
Your baked beans with ground beef and bacon are great for many occasions:
- Family dinners
- Backyard barbecues
- Potluck gatherings
- Camping trips
- Weekend cookouts
Cost-Effective Family Meal Solution
Making baked beans with ground beef is a budget-friendly way to feed many. It uses simple ingredients and is easy to prepare. This dish is both satisfying and affordable.
Ingredient | Cost Estimate | Servings |
---|---|---|
Ground Beef | $4.50 | 12 |
Canned Beans | $2.00 | 12 |
Bacon | $3.50 | 12 |
Total Cost Per Serving | $0.83 | N/A |
By mixing affordable ingredients like ground beef and canned beans, you make a memorable meal. It satisfies both hunger and taste buds.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Baked Beans Recipe with Ground Beef
To make a tasty baked beans casserole with hamburger, you need the right ingredients. These ingredients add flavor and texture to your dish. They are the key to a classic comfort food.
- Ground Beef: Pick lean ground beef (1 pound) to cut down on fat
- Baked Beans: Use 28 ounces of Bush’s Original Baked Beans
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, salt, black pepper
- Flavor Enhancers: Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard
- Optional Additions: Chopped onions, ketchup
Looking for something different? Try cannellini, navy, or Great Northern beans. For a veggie option, use plant-based crumbles instead of ground beef.
“The secret to an outstanding baked beans casserole lies in balancing flavors and selecting premium ingredients.”
When making your baked beans with hamburger, mix sweet, savory, and umami flavors. The lean ground beef and seasoned beans make a filling meal every time.
Kitchen Equipment and Preparation Tips
Getting ready for a tasty cowboy beans recipe needs the right tools and planning. Your kitchen setup is key to making this classic dish a hit.
Essential Cookware Needed
For the best cowboy beans, you’ll need these items:
- Large cast-iron skillet
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Temperature and Timing Guidelines
Getting the temperature right is important for ground beef baked beans. Here’s a quick guide:
Cooking Stage | Temperature | Duration |
---|---|---|
Ground Beef Browning | Medium Heat | 8-10 minutes |
Oven Baking | 350°F | 45-55 minutes |
Uncovered Finish | 350°F | 10 minutes |
Preparation Workspace Setup
Make your cooking area efficient with these tips:
- Gather all ingredients before starting
- Prep vegetables in advance
- Clear workspace for easy movement
- Have all measuring tools ready
“Preparation is the secret ingredient to a perfect cowboy beans recipe.”
By following these tips, you’ll be ready for a great ground beef baked beans dish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making the perfect calico beans recipe needs careful steps and attention. Your barbecue baked beans with beef will turn a simple dish into a hit with everyone.
- Brown the Ground Beef
- Use 1 pound of ground beef
- Cook in a large skillet until no pink remains
- Drain excess fat
- Prepare the Seasoning Mix
- Combine brown sugar, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce
- Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper
- Whisk ingredients until well blended
- Combine Ingredients
- Mix two 28-ounce cans of baked beans
- Add cooked ground beef
- Stir in seasoning mixture
- Baking Process
- Preheat oven to 350°F
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour and 15 minutes
“The secret to great barbecue baked beans is in the balance of sweet and savory flavors.” – Southern Cooking Expert
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Ground Beef | 1 pound | Protein base |
Baked Beans | 56 ounces | Main volume |
Brown Sugar | 3/4 cup | Sweetness |
Worcestershire Sauce | 2 tablespoons | Depth of flavor |
Pro tip: For extra richness, add 6 slices of crispy bacon on top before baking. Your calico beans recipe will be even more delicious!
Flavor Enhancing Tips and Techniques
Making the best baked beans with beef and bacon is more than just mixing ingredients. Your baked bean skillet with ground beef can go from good to amazing with a few tricks. These tricks will boost the flavor.
Getting the flavor right is key for a dish you’ll remember. Here are some expert tips to make your baked beans stand out:
Seasoning Strategies
- Layer flavors with BBQ seasoning and garlic powder
- Add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for depth
- Balance sweetness with 1/4 cup maple syrup
- Incorporate cracked black pepper for subtle heat
Texture Management Techniques
To get the right texture in your baked beans with beef and bacon, you need to prepare carefully:
- Brown ground beef completely before mixing
- Dice bacon into small, crispy pieces
- Use 1/2 cup water to keep it moist
- Stir occasionally to avoid burning
Temperature Control Insights
Cooking Method | Temperature | Duration |
---|---|---|
Stovetop | Low heat | 30 minutes |
Oven | 350°F | 45 minutes |
Slow Cooker | High | 1 hour |
“The secret to great baked beans is patience and layered flavors.” – Southern Cooking Expert
With these techniques, your baked bean skillet with ground beef will impress everyone. It will show off your cooking talent.
Creative Variations and Substitutions
Exploring creative variations can make your classic baked bean recipes more exciting. Your traditional baked beans with ground beef can become a versatile dish. It can adapt to different tastes and dietary needs.

Here are some delicious ways to modify your baked beans recipe with ground beef:
- Protein Alternatives
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option
- Use plant-based ground meat for vegetarian baked beans
- Replace meat with diced chicken or chorizo for unique flavors
- Bean Variety
- Mix navy beans with kidney or pinto beans
- Try black beans for a southwestern twist
- Combine different bean types for texture complexity
“Creativity in the kitchen starts with willingness to experiment!” – Home Cooking Enthuasiast
For those with dietary restrictions, consider these smart substitutions:
- Replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup
- Use low-sodium BBQ sauce for heart-healthy options
- Incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini
Your baked bean recipes can be customized to suit individual preferences. They can maintain the delicious core flavor that makes this dish a family favorite.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Options
Your baked beans with ground beef can make any meal special. The mix of savory ground beef and hearty baked beans is perfect for many serving styles.
Side Dish Recommendations
Make your baked beans and ground beef even better with these sides:
- Crisp green salad
- Creamy potato salad
- Tangy coleslaw
- Buttered corn on the cob
- Homemade cornbread
Main Course Presentations
Make your baked beans with ground beef a main dish by adding:
- Grilled hot dogs
- Pulled pork sandwiches
- Barbecue chicken
- Classic hamburgers
Garnishing Ideas
Boost the look and taste of your baked beans with ground beef with these garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Crispy bacon bits
- Sliced green onions
- Shredded cheddar cheese
“A well-garnished dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate!” – Southern Cooking Wisdom
Your baked beans with ground beef and bacon are great for many occasions. They’re perfect for family dinners, summer cookouts, and potluck gatherings.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Your tasty baked beans with hamburger meat can last for days with the right storage. Knowing how to store it keeps the flavor and quality just right.
Refrigeration Best Practices
Here’s how to store your baked beans casserole:
- Use an airtight container for storage
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
- Store for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator
- Keep the temperature consistently below 40°F
Reheating Techniques
Here’s how to make your baked beans with hamburger meat taste like new:
- Oven Method:
- Preheat to 350°F
- Cover with foil to prevent drying
- Heat for 15-20 minutes
- Microwave Method:
- Use a microwave-safe dish
- Add a splash of water or broth
- Heat on high for 1-2 minutes
- Stir halfway through
Freezing Instructions
Storage Method | Duration | Recommended Process |
---|---|---|
Freezer Storage | Up to 3 months | Use freezer-safe container |
Thawing | Overnight | Refrigerator thawing recommended |
“Proper storage ensures your baked beans maintain their delicious flavor and texture.”
Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating stored baked beans. If unsure, it’s best to throw it away for safety.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
The cowboy beans recipe is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s both delicious and good for your diet. A single serving of ground beef baked beans offers a balanced mix of nutrients.
- Protein Power: With 19g of protein per serving, this dish supports muscle health and provides sustained energy
- Fiber Boost: 12g of dietary fiber aids digestion and promotes gut health
- Mineral Rich: Significant amounts of iron, potassium, and calcium support overall wellness
The ground beef adds more nutritional benefits. It’s a great source of B vitamins, like B12, which helps your nerves and makes red blood cells. The iron in beef is easier for your body to absorb than plant-based iron.
“Food is not just calories, it’s information that talks to your genes.” – Dr. Mark Hyman
While it’s nutritious, watch out for sodium and sugar. The recipe has 793mg of sodium and 49g of sugar per serving. To make it healthier, use lean ground beef (90% lean) and cut down on added sugars.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 536 kcal |
Protein | 19g |
Total Fat | 9g |
Fiber | 12g |
Your cowboy beans recipe is more than just a meal. It’s a nutritional investment in your health.
Conclusion
Your calico beans recipe adventure doesn’t end here. This dish is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of Southern comfort food. It brings families and friends together. With simple ingredients like two 15-oz cans of baked beans and one pound of ground beef, you can create a hearty, flavorful experience.
Experimenting with this recipe opens up a world of culinary creativity. You can tweak the seasoning, add optional ingredients like diced bell peppers, or try different bean brands. Each version becomes uniquely yours. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability and the joy of shared meals that create lasting memories.
We invite you to make this recipe your own. Try different variations, adjust seasonings to your taste, and don’t be afraid to put your personal spin on this classic comfort food. Share your cooking experiences with friends and family. Remember, great meals are about more than just nutrition; they’re about connection, love, and the simple pleasure of a delicious home-cooked dish.
Ready to start your culinary journey? Grab those baked beans, brown some ground beef, and let the cooking begin!
FAQ
What type of beans work best for this recipe?
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
How can I make this dish less sweet?
Is this recipe gluten-free?
How long can I store leftover baked beans with ground beef?
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
What are some good side dishes to serve with baked beans and ground beef?
Source Links
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- https://www.thecountrycook.net/southern-baked-beans/ – Southern Baked Beans
- https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/hearty-beans-with-beef/?srsltid=AfmBOooKzMikhqA9DML1qn9Glwxv_t0NOXQlIRFxnqu1z3XyPYJShZF8 – Baked Beans with Ground Beef
- https://saladinajar.com/recipes/hearty-baked-beans/ – Best Baked Beans with Sausage and Ground Beef
- https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/hearty-beans-with-beef/?srsltid=AfmBOor6xkWCvi0YasMpybQ5UV0Sy3pzMvs0VkS2qdyz6fbKHBgz_Vew – Baked Beans with Ground Beef
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- https://mandiofthemountains.com/the-best-baked-beans-with-ground-beef-and-bacon/ – Homemade Baked Beans with Ground Beef and Bacon
- https://cookingbride.com/barbecue-baked-beans/ – Traeger Smoked Baked Beans with Ground Beef and Bacon – The Cooking Bride
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