If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with comforting goodness, look no further than Baked Beans with Ground Beef. This recipe takes the classic baked beans we all know and love, and elevates it with the addition of savory ground beef and fresh herbs to create a balanced, satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.
Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a casual get-together, or simply craving a deliciously filling dish, this baked bean casserole-style meal hits all the right notes — sweet, smoky, spicy, and full of texture. In this post, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know to make this recipe your new go-to comfort food favorite, including ingredient tips, step-by-step instructions, nutritional info, serving ideas, and storage tips. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a wonderful blend of sweet baked beans, tender ground beef, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs that come together in perfect harmony. It’s:
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Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
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Nutritious and filling with lean protein from ground beef and fiber from beans and vegetables.
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Versatile and adaptable — customize spice levels or swap beef for turkey if you prefer.
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Perfect for batch cooking and leftovers taste even better after a day or two!
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Great for any occasion — weeknight dinners, potlucks, BBQ sides, or game-day snacks.
Ingredients Breakdown: What You’ll Need and Why
Before we get cooking, let’s review the key ingredients, what they add to the dish, and tips for choosing the best versions.
1. Lean Ground Beef (1 lb)
This adds rich umami flavor and hearty protein to the dish. Choose 90% lean or higher for less fat but still plenty of flavor.
2. Onion (1 medium, finely chopped)
Onions provide a savory base and sweetness when sautéed, enhancing depth.
3. Carrot (1 medium, finely chopped)
Carrots add subtle natural sweetness and extra fiber.
4. Baked Beans (1 can, about 15 oz)
This is the star ingredient — beans in a sweet tomato sauce that meld beautifully with spices and beef.
5. Cherry Tomatoes (1 can, chopped, 15 oz)
Fresh-tasting tomatoes add juiciness and slight acidity, balancing the sweetness.
6. Mustard Seeds (1 tsp)
These tiny seeds provide a mild tangy heat and textural contrast.
7. Cumin Powder (1 tsp)
Cumin adds warm, earthy notes and enhances the savory flavors.
8. Cayenne Pepper (½ tsp)
Just enough heat to keep things interesting without overwhelming.
9. Ground Nutmeg (½ tsp)
Nutmeg adds subtle warmth and complexity.
10. Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste)
Essential seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
11. Fresh Herbs (parsley, dill, thyme – chopped)
Herbs brighten the dish and add fresh herbal notes.
12. Water or Beef Stock (½ cup)
Used to deglaze the pan and create a bit of sauce, keeping everything moist.
Step-by-Step Directions
Now that you have everything, here’s how to create this delicious meal from start to finish.
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Carrots
Add the finely chopped onion and carrot to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Spices and Seasoning
Sprinkle in the mustard seeds, cumin powder, cayenne pepper, ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the beef and vegetables evenly with the spices.
Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in ½ cup water or beef stock to deglaze the pan. Scrape any browned bits off the bottom. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to develop flavors and reduce slightly.
Step 5: Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Herbs
Stir in the canned baked beans with sauce and chopped cherry tomatoes. Add the chopped fresh herbs. Mix everything thoroughly.
Step 6: Simmer Until Thickened
Reduce heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened and flavors melded.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spices if needed. Serve hot as a main dish or side.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
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Calories: 350 kcal
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Protein: 25g
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Carbohydrates: 30g
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Fiber: 8g
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Fat: 12g
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Sugar: 10g (from baked beans and tomatoes)
This dish provides a great balance of macronutrients with a good dose of fiber and protein, making it ideal for a filling and wholesome meal.
Serving Suggestions
This baked beans and ground beef dish is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to enjoy it:
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With crusty bread or cornbread for dipping and soaking up the flavorful sauce.
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Over steamed rice or quinoa to turn it into a complete meal.
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Topped with shredded cheddar cheese and scallions for an extra flavor boost.
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As a filling for baked potatoes for a comforting, hearty meal.
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Alongside roasted or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate.
Tips for the Best Baked Beans with Ground Beef
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Use freshly ground black pepper for the most vibrant flavor.
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Don’t skip the fresh herbs — they really brighten the dish at the end.
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Adjust cayenne pepper to your spice tolerance; start low if unsure.
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For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
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Leftovers taste even better the next day — store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Freeze leftovers in portions for easy future meals.
Storage and Reheating
To store, transfer cooled leftovers to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or stock if it seems dry. Alternatively, microwave in covered containers, stirring occasionally.
Final Thoughts
This baked beans with ground beef recipe combines comfort food nostalgia with a wholesome twist that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all seasons.
Try it tonight and enjoy the satisfying, hearty flavors with your loved ones!