Are you craving a comforting, flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering? Look no further! This recipe for baked beans with ground beef is a classic for a reason – it’s incredibly delicious, surprisingly easy to make, and satisfyingly hearty. This homemade version elevates the humble baked bean to new heights, transforming it into a truly memorable meal. Get ready to enjoy this simple yet delicious addition to your healthy meal repertoire of quick dinner ideas!
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 mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
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Brown the 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, mustard powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors will become.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious baked beans with ground beef hot, as a standalone dish or as a side to your favorite protein.
Tips for the Best Baked Beans:
- Don't rush the simmering process! The longer the beans simmer, the more the flavors meld together, creating a deeper, more complex taste.
- Adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of brown sugar. Conversely, for a sweeter bean, add a little more.
- Add some smoky flavor: For an even smokier taste, consider adding a few dashes of liquid smoke along with the other spices.
- Spice it up: If you enjoy a spicy kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Variations:
- Bacon Baked Beans: Add 4-6 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon for extra richness and flavor.
- BBQ Baked Beans: Stir in 1/4 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Vegetarian Baked Beans: Omit the ground beef and add 1 cup of chopped mushrooms or bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
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 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This easy recipe for baked beans with ground beef is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit your preferences and dietary needs, making it a go-to choice for both beginners and experienced cooks alike. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful meal!