Nothing says comfort food quite like a hearty dish of baked beans with savory ground beef and caramelized onions. Perfect for gatherings or easy weeknight dinners, this mouthwatering combination blends classic southern flavors with robust protein. Whether you're craving traditional southern baked beans or looking for a tasty twist to impress guests, this recipe delivers rich, smoky notes and satisfying textures in every bite.
Hearty Baked Beans with Ground Beef and Onions
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 1 hour hr
Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Dutch Oven or Baking Dish A sturdy cast-iron Dutch oven is ideal for oven baked beans, retaining heat and enhancing flavors. If unavailable, a deep ceramic baking dish covered tightly with foil is an excellent alternative.
Skillet Needed for browning beef and caramelizing onions. Non-stick or cast iron works best.
Wooden spoon Useful for stirring and combining ingredients without scratching cookware.
Beans
- You can opt for either homemade baked beans from canned beans for convenience or make your baked beans recipe from scratch by soaking and cooking dried navy or great northern beans.
Ground Beef
- Lean ground beef 85% lean is ideal to avoid excessive grease, providing substantial texture and rich flavor.
Onions
- Yellow onions caramelize beautifully adding sweetness and depth.
Bacon
- Smoked bacon enhances the dish with rich smoky flavors. Thick-cut bacon is recommended.
Brown Sugar
- A balance of sweetness complements the smoky elements.
Molasses
- Adds deep earthy sweetness and traditional southern flair.
Ketchup
- Provides tanginess and a vibrant tomato base.
Mustard
- Yellow mustard cuts through sweetness with a slight tang.
Apple Cider Vinegar
- Adds acidity balancing flavors.
Garlic Powder and Smoked Paprika
- Seasoning staples to elevate flavors subtly.
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare Bacon and Onions
Cook bacon in a large skillet until crisp. Remove and chop into bite-sized pieces, reserving about 2 tablespoons of rendered bacon fat.
In the same skillet, sauté onions over medium heat until soft and caramelized, about 8 minutes.
Brown Ground Beef
Add ground beef to the onions, cooking until browned and crumbly. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish balanced.
Combine Beans and Meat Mixture
In a Dutch oven or baking dish, combine the beans (homemade or canned beans, rinsed and drained), bacon, beef, onions, ketchup, molasses, mustard, brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute flavors.
Bake
Cover with a lid or foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Remove cover and bake for an additional 15 minutes to thicken and caramelize the top.
Rest and Serve
Allow beans to rest briefly (about 5 minutes), letting flavors meld before serving.
Pairings in Detail
- Protein Pairings: Perfect alongside grilled or smoked meats like barbecue ribs, pulled pork, or grilled sausages.
- Sides: Complement beautifully with creamy coleslaw, cornbread muffins, or classic potato salad.
- Beverages: Pair with cold iced tea, chilled lemonade, or a robust amber beer to highlight smoky flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this baked beans recipe with ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well for a leaner option, though beef adds more traditional richness.
2. Are canned beans or homemade beans better for this dish?
Homemade baked beans from scratch offer deeper flavor and texture, but canned beans are ideal for quick and convenient preparation.
3. How can I make these into smoked baked beans?
Cook the beans in a smoker at around 225°F (107°C) for 2-3 hours instead of baking in an oven for authentic smoky notes.
4. Can these beans be prepared ahead of time for a party?
Yes, these beans can be prepared up to a day in advance, refrigerated, and reheated gently in the oven before serving, making them ideal party baked beans.
5. What is the best bacon for this recipe?
Thick-cut, smoked bacon is best for enhancing the smoky, savory flavors of your baked beans.
