Favorite Baked Beans Recipe – Easy, Smoky & Delicious

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Favorite Baked Beans Recipe - Easy, Smoky & Delicious

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Hello food enthusiasts! Are you ready to discover the best baked beans recipe out there? Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or simply looking for a comforting side dish, our favorite baked beans recipe with beef will steal the show. This dish combines rich flavors from BBQ sauce, dijon mustard, and a hint of smoked paprika, making every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Get ready to impress everyone with a delicious baked bean dish that’s flavorful, hearty, and oh-so satisfying, now with the extra depth of ground beef!

Introduction

Baked beans are a staple in many households, especially when it comes to BBQs, potlucks, or simple family dinners. Originating from Native American and early colonial cuisines, baked beans have become a beloved comfort food across the globe. The mixture of beans with sweet and savory sauces creates an irresistible combination that’s hard to beat. What makes this baked beans recipe special? The smoky notes from paprika, the tang of apple cider vinegar, and the rich blend of spices make this dish stand out, now with the addition of ground beef for a heartier meal. This recipe is perfect for those who love a rich, meaty side dish that complements a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to sandwiches.

Ingredients for Favorite Baked Beans (With Beef)

To prepare this mouthwatering baked beans dish with beef, you will need the following ingredients:

  • ½ pound of ground beef
  • 1 small sweet onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 cans (22 ounces) baked beans (I prefer Bush’s Grillin’ Beans)

How to Make Favorite Baked Beans (With Beef) – Step by Step

Follow these easy steps to make your own delicious baked beans with beef:

  1. Preheat the Oven
    Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This step is essential to ensure your baked beans are perfectly cooked with a syrupy texture.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef
    In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Break it up with a spatula while cooking to ensure even browning. Drain any excess fat before continuing.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables
    Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, which usually takes around 5 minutes.
  4. Add the Spices
    Stir in the smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Let the spices cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
  5. Incorporate the Sauces
    Pour in the apple cider vinegar, BBQ sauce, ketchup, dijon mustard, and brown sugar. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well combined, ensuring a balanced blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors.
  6. Add the Beans
    Pour the canned baked beans (liquid and all) directly into the skillet. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. This step helps the flavors meld together before baking.
  7. Bake the Beans
    Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the beans are bubbly and syrupy. Remove from the oven and let the dish cool slightly before serving.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Baked Beans (With Beef)

  1. Use Lean Ground Beef
    Opt for lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy. Drain any excess fat after browning the beef.
  2. Adjust the Heat
    If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of chipotle chili powder. For a milder flavor, use less or omit it altogether.
  3. Don’t Overcook the Beef
    To avoid dry beef, make sure you cook it just until it’s no longer pink. The beef will continue to cook while baking with the beans.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Beans (With Beef)

These baked beans with beef are a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Serve them alongside grilled meats like ribs, pulled pork, or chicken for the ultimate BBQ spread. They also make a great accompaniment to burgers, sausages, and cornbread. For a lighter meal, pair them with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I make these baked beans ahead of time?
    Absolutely! You can prepare the beans in advance by cooking them in the skillet, allowing them to cool, and storing them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them in the oven until they’re heated through.
  2. Can I freeze baked beans with beef?
    Yes, baked beans with beef freeze very well. Store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven or on the stovetop.
  3. Can I use other types of beans?
    While this recipe calls for baked beans, you can experiment with other beans like kidney beans or navy beans. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
  4. What’s the best way to reheat baked beans with beef?
    Reheat baked beans in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Variations for Favorite Baked Beans (With Beef)

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by trying these delicious variations:

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or skip it entirely and use additional vegetables.
  • Spicier Beans: Add jalapeños or increase the amount of chipotle chili powder for a fiery twist.
  • Sweeter Beans: For a sweeter flavor, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or a splash of maple syrup.

Related Recipes for Baked Beans Lovers

Here are two related recipes that pair perfectly with baked beans:

Conclusion

There you have it – the ultimate baked beans with beef recipe! Packed with flavors, this dish is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ or enjoying it as a cozy side dish, these baked beans with beef are sure to become a family favorite. We hope you give this recipe a try and feel free to leave a comment with your feedback or any personal twists you added. Enjoy cooking!

You Might Also Like

  • Peanut Butter Ganache – A rich, decadent dessert that balances well with the savory baked beans.
  • Homemade Yukon Gold Potato Chips – Perfectly crispy chips that make a great snack or side to baked beans.
  • Sausage Balls with Red Lobster Mix – These bite-sized appetizers are an excellent companion to baked beans at any gathering.Print
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    Favorite Baked Beans Recipe - Easy, Smoky & Delicious

    Favorite Baked Beans Recipe – Easy, Smoky & Delicious


    Description

    Hello food enthusiasts! Are you ready to discover the best baked beans recipe out there? Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or simply looking for a comforting side dish, our favorite baked beans recipe with beef will steal the show. This dish combines rich flavors from BBQ sauce, dijon mustard, and a hint of smoked paprika, making every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Get ready to impress everyone with a delicious baked bean dish that’s flavorful, hearty, and oh-so satisfying, now with the extra depth of ground beef!


    Ingredients

    Scale
    • ½ pound of ground beef
    • 1 small sweet onion, diced
    • 1 bell pepper, diced
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
    • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder (adjust to taste)
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
    • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
    • 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
    • 2 tablespoons ketchup
    • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
    • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
    • 2 cans (22 ounces) baked beans (I prefer Bush’s Grillin’ Beans)

    Instructions

    • Preheat the Oven
      Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This step is essential to ensure your baked beans are perfectly cooked with a syrupy texture.
    • Cook the Ground Beef
      In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Break it up with a spatula while cooking to ensure even browning. Drain any excess fat before continuing.
    • Sauté the Vegetables
      Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, which usually takes around 5 minutes.
    • Add the Spices
      Stir in the smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Let the spices cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
    • Incorporate the Sauces
      Pour in the apple cider vinegar, BBQ sauce, ketchup, dijon mustard, and brown sugar. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well combined, ensuring a balanced blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors.
    • Add the Beans
      Pour the canned baked beans (liquid and all) directly into the skillet. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. This step helps the flavors meld together before baking.
    • Bake the Beans
      Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the beans are bubbly and syrupy. Remove from the oven and let the dish cool slightly before serving.

    Notes

    • Use Lean Ground Beef
      Opt for lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy. Drain any excess fat after browning the beef.
    • Adjust the Heat
      If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of chipotle chili powder. For a milder flavor, use less or omit it altogether.
    • Don’t Overcook the Beef
      To avoid dry beef, make sure you cook it just until it’s no longer pink. The beef will continue to cook while baking with the beans.

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