Are you looking for a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dinner recipe? Look no further! This baked beans recipe with ground beef is a family favorite, perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual weekend gathering. It’s a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors, with tender beans and juicy ground beef simmered in a rich, smoky sauce. This recipe is a great example of homemade cooking at its finest, transforming simple ingredients into a truly satisfying dish. Get ready to experience the joy of a simple yet incredibly delicious meal!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
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Brown the Ground Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and pinto beans. Stir in the brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as cornbread, crusty bread, or a simple green salad.
Tips for the Best Baked Beans:
- For a smokier flavor: Use smoked paprika and consider adding a few dashes of liquid smoke.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the beans uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, carrots, or celery for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make it your own: Experiment with different types of beans or add other spices to create your unique version of this delicious dish.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Baked Beans: Omit the ground beef and add 1 cup of cooked lentils or chopped mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Baked Beans: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Sweet and Savory Baked Beans: Adjust the amount of brown sugar and molasses to your liking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This baked beans recipe with ground beef is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It's a perfect choice for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and satisfying meal without sacrificing taste. Enjoy this delicious and comforting dish!