How to make ground beef baked beans: a quick and easy recipe you’ll love

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering guide on how to make ground beef baked beans. This hearty and flavorful dish is a classic comfort food that will warm your soul on a chilly evening. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will empower you to create a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients: The Symphony of Flavors

To craft the perfect ground beef baked beans, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 green bell peppers, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15-ounce) can of tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can of diced tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can of baked beans
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions: A Culinary Journey

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion, green bell peppers, and red bell peppers to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

3. Create the Sauce: Pour the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes into the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

4. Add the Baked Beans: Stir in the baked beans, brown sugar, molasses, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Simmer and Thicken: Reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

6. Serve and Savor: Transfer the ground beef baked beans to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as cornbread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Variations: A Canvas for Creativity

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for a fiery twist.

• Sweet and Tangy: Add a splash of honey or maple syrup to balance out the savory flavors.

• Veggie Delight: Omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables, such as mushrooms, carrots, or corn.

• Smoky Affair: Add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the sauce for an extra layer of depth.

Tips for Perfection

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the final flavor of the dish. Opt for fresh vegetables and flavorful ground beef.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When browning the ground beef and sautéing the vegetables, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This will prevent even cooking and result in a watery sauce.

• Simmer for Flavor: The key to creating a rich and flavorful sauce is to simmer the beans for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken.

• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Taste the baked beans throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasonings as needed. Every palate is different, so don’t be afraid to customize the flavors to your liking.

Serving Suggestions: A Symphony of Sides

• Cornbread: The classic pairing for baked beans, cornbread soaks up all the delicious sauce.

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes provide a perfect base for the hearty beans.

• Green Salad: A fresh and light green salad adds a touch of balance to the heavy meal.

• Buttered Noodles: Simple yet satisfying, buttered noodles offer a comforting accompaniment.

In a nutshell: A Culinary Triumph

Making ground beef baked beans is a culinary adventure that will fill your home with warmth and delicious aromas. By following these simple steps and experimenting with different variations and sides, you can create a dish that will become a beloved family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on a journey of culinary exploration. Your taste buds will thank you!

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. Can I use canned ground beef?

Yes, you can use canned ground beef, but fresh ground beef will yield a more flavorful dish.

2. What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can substitute granulated sugar or honey in equal amounts.

3. Can I make baked beans in a slow cooker?

Yes, transfer all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

4. How can I thicken the sauce?

Simmer the beans for longer, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to the sauce.

5. What is a good substitute for molasses?

Honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar syrup can be used in place of molasses.