Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this baked beans with hamburger recipe! This classic dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend potluck, or a cozy night in. It's a fantastic example of delicious homemade cooking, blending the heartiness of baked beans with the savory richness of ground beef. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, and it's surprisingly quick to prepare, making it one of the best recipes for busy weeknights. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can baked beans (in molasses or brown sugar)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This ensures a leaner and healthier meal. For a richer flavor, consider using a higher fat content ground beef.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, baked beans, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, and smoked paprika. Season generously with salt and pepper. Make sure all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a simmer on the stovetop, then transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, until the flavors have melded and the sauce has thickened. The longer it bakes, the richer the flavor will become.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious baked beans with hamburger hot, perhaps with crusty bread for dipping. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect as a standalone meal or a side dish.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Add some veggies: Include chopped bell peppers, carrots, or celery along with the onion for added nutrients and texture.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or black beans for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Slow cooker option: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This baked beans with hamburger recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily customized to your liking, making it a staple in your healthy meals repertoire. Enjoy!