Baked Beans with Hamburger Meat: How to Make This Comfort Dish

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the hearty, flavorful combination of baked beans with hamburger meat. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or feeding a crowd at a BBQ, this dish has a way of bringing everyone together. The savory blend of ground beef, sweet and tangy beans, and seasonings creates a meal that satisfies on every level. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

This recipe is one of those dishes you can quickly whip up after a busy day, yet it has the richness and depth of a meal that’s been slow-cooked for hours. It’s comforting, filling, and customizable to your taste preferences. In this article, we’ll dive into why baked beans with hamburger meat should be your go-to comfort food and give you a detailed, step-by-step guide to make this crowd-pleaser.

Key Benefits of Baked Beans with Hamburger Meat

Before we jump into the ingredients and instructions, let’s explore the key benefits of this dish. Not only is it delicious, but it also ticks all the boxes for a satisfying meal.

1. Hearty and Filling

One of the biggest benefits of baked beans with hamburger meat is how filling it is. The ground beef 🥩 provides a good dose of protein, which helps keep you full longer, while the baked beans 🍛 are rich in fiber. The combination creates a meal that is both comforting and sustaining, making it perfect for a hearty dinner or lunch. Whether you’re feeding your family or guests, this dish will keep everyone satisfied.

2. Quick and Easy to Prepare

If you’re looking for a meal that doesn’t require hours of preparation, this is the recipe for you. You can have baked beans with hamburger meat on the table in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish is both a time-saver and a life-saver.

3. Affordable and Pantry-Friendly

Most of the ingredients needed for this recipe are items you likely already have in your pantry or fridge. Ground beef, baked beans, and onions 🧅 are common staples that can be purchased at an affordable price. This makes the dish budget-friendly without sacrificing flavor.

4. Customizable to Your Tastes

Not everyone likes the same level of spice or sweetness in their meals. With baked beans with hamburger meat, you have full control over the flavors. Want it sweeter? Add a little extra brown sugar 🍬. Craving more heat? Toss in some jalapeños 🌶️ or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can easily adjust the ingredients to make it as mild or as spicy as you prefer.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

Another fantastic benefit of this recipe is that it stores well. The flavors only get better the next day, making it a great option for meal prepping. You can store the leftovers in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for later. That means you can cook once and enjoy the meal multiple times throughout the week!

Ingredients for Baked Beans with Hamburger Meat

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this savory, easy-to-make dish:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef 🥩 – You’ll want lean ground beef for this recipe, but any ground beef will work. If you’re going for a healthier option, feel free to use ground turkey instead.
• 2 (15 oz) cans baked beans 🍛 – You can use traditional baked beans or opt for variations like maple or honey-flavored beans if you like a bit more sweetness.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped 🧅 – Adds savory flavor and a slight sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄 – This ingredient boosts the flavor and adds a lovely aroma to the dish.
• 1/4 cup ketchup 🍅 – For a tangy kick and a bit of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the beans.
• 2 tbsp brown sugar 🍬 – To add a touch of sweetness and help balance out the savory flavors.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 🍷 – This adds depth and a slightly smoky taste.
• 1 tbsp mustard 🍯 – For a bit of tanginess.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika 🌶️ – This brings a warm, smoky flavor to the dish. If you like extra spice, feel free to add more.
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper 🧂 – To taste.

Optional Add-ins:

• Cheddar cheese, shredded 🧀 – A cheesy topping makes the dish even more indulgent and irresistible.
• Bacon, crumbled 🥓 – Adds a smoky, crispy texture that pairs wonderfully with the beans and beef.
• Hot sauce 🌶️ – If you like it spicy, this is a great addition to kick things up a notch.
• Chopped fresh parsley 🌿 – For a burst of color and freshness to garnish the dish.

Instructions for Making Baked Beans with Hamburger Meat

Ready to dive in? Follow these simple steps to make your own baked beans with hamburger meat:

1. Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating olive oil 🫒 in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef 🥩. Use a spoon to break the beef into small crumbles as it cooks. Stir occasionally and cook until the beef is browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat, leaving just a bit for flavor.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Next, add the onion 🧅 and garlic 🧄 to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent. This step helps release their natural sweetness, creating a rich base for the dish.

3. Add the Beans and Sauces

Now, it’s time to add the baked beans 🍛, ketchup 🍅, brown sugar 🍬, Worcestershire sauce 🍷, and mustard 🍯. Stir everything together until well combined. Let the mixture simmer over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Season the Dish

Add smoked paprika 🌶️, salt, and pepper 🧂. Stir again and taste, adjusting the seasoning as necessary. If you like a bit more spice, you can also add a dash of hot sauce 🌶️.

5. Optional Cheese Topping

If you’re using cheddar cheese 🧀, sprinkle it over the beans and beef mixture about 5 minutes before the dish is done cooking. Let the cheese melt into the dish, creating a gooey, savory topping.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is cooked through and the flavors have had time to meld, it’s time to serve! Dish out the baked beans with hamburger meat onto plates and garnish with some fresh parsley 🌿 if desired. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious meal.

Pro Tips and Variations Baked Beans with Hamburger Meat

If you want to take your baked beans with hamburger meat to the next level, here are a few tips and variations you can try:

• Add Bacon for Extra Flavor: Crisp up some bacon 🥓 and mix it into the dish for added smokiness.
• Go Spicy: Add jalapeños 🌶️ or your favorite hot sauce to kick up the heat.
• Make It Vegetarian: For a plant-based version, swap the ground beef 🥩 for a vegetarian ground meat alternative, or use extra beans for a meat-free dish.
• Slow Cooker Version: If you prefer using a slow cooker, brown the meat and onions first, then transfer everything into the slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 2-3 hours, and you’ll have a flavorful, easy meal waiting for you.
• Sweeten It More: For a sweeter twist, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar 🍬 or drizzle in some maple syrup 🍁.

Serving Suggestions-Baked Beans with Hamburger Meat

Wondering what to pair with your baked beans with hamburger meat? Here are some ideas:

• Over Rice 🍚: Serve it on a bed of white or brown rice for a filling meal.
• With Garlic Bread 🥖: The crispy, garlicky bread is perfect for mopping up all the savory sauce.
• On a Bun 🍔: Make a hearty sandwich by placing the mixture on a burger bun.
• With a Side Salad 🥗: A fresh, crisp salad can balance out the richness of the beans and meat.

Conclusion

Baked Beans with Hamburger Meat is the epitome of comfort food. It’s savory, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make, making it the perfect dish for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re making it for your family or a crowd, this dish will not disappoint.

So, next time you’re in the mood for something comforting and filling, look no further than baked beans with hamburger meat. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and discover how simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s both hearty and irresistible.

FAQs

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

A: Absolutely! Ground turkey works great in this dish, giving you a leaner version of the classic recipe.

Q: How long can I store leftovers?

A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and reheated when you’re ready to serve. It actually tastes even better the next day!

Q: How do I make this spicier?

A: You can easily add more heat by including jalapeños, chili flakes, or extra hot sauce 🌶️.

Recipe Recap-Baked Beans with Hamburger Meat

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving (without optional toppings)

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 8g

Categorize the Recipe:

• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Omnivore
• Method: Stovetop
• Keyword: Baked Beans with Hamburger Meat, Comfort Food, Savory Beef Beans

Skill Level: Easy