Ground beef baked beans are a simple comforting dish that is perfect for BBQs, potlucks or as a simple standalone dinner.
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When I think of large family potluck gatherings over the years, I am hard pressed to think of a time when baked beans weren't on the table (potato salad was rarely skipped either!).
They're one of those dishes that you would miss if they weren't there but they're never really the star of the show.
But I'm convinced they would have gotten all of the attention if they would have been these hamburger baked beans! And here's why:
- From scratch. Homemade just always tastes better, amiright? These beans come together quite easily but use from scratch staples that add a lot of flavor.
- Hearty and filling. The addition of ground beef makes these baked beans a meal that could stand alone and be the star main dish but is also a wonderful side.
- Great for a crowd. This recipe makes a large portion so it is perfect for when you need to feed a large group.
The Ingredients
- Cooked or Canned Beans- I typically make baked beans with some kind of white beans (such as navy beans or cannellini)or pinto beans. However, they work well with most kinds of beans so feel free to sub with black beans and more or use a combination.
- Yellow Onion- White onion or red can be used instead.
- Garlic- If you prefer, you can use 1 teaspoon of powder instead.
- Tomato Paste- Most baked beans are made with either ketchup or BBQ sauce but we are using tomato paste and then adding our own spices.
- Balsamic Vinegar- I really like the deep flavor that balsamic adds to these but apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar also work well.
- Maple Syrup- Honey or brown sugar can be used instead.
- Sea Salt- Table or kosher salt will work. I wrote this on the slightly less salty side but recommend tasting and adding more if needed (you may need an extra ½ teaspoon depending on your preferences).
- Paprika- Regular paprika or smoked paprika work really well.
- Dijon Mustard- If needed, you can substitute with 2 teaspoons of mustard powder.
- Cumin- For a bit of earthy flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper-As written, these aren't overly spicy, but this can be left out if you'd prefer or increase the amount of cayenne used if you want extra heat.
- Black Pepper
The Method
1. Cook beef. Preheat a large, heavy bottomed pot over medium heat and add the ground beef, onions and garlic along with 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook, stirring often to break up the ground beef until lightly browned and the onions are starting to soften.
2. Mix. Transfer to your baking dish (or see the recipe card for stovetop options). Stir in the tomato paste, maple syrup, mustard, vinegar and seasonings until well incorporated. Finally, stir in the beans along with the water and the vinegar.
3. Cook. Bake in the oven for 1.5-2 hours at 375 F until thickened. Stir every 30-45 minutes. Taste and add salt if needed.
4. Enjoy! These are delicious as a stand alone meal served over some mashed potatoes or grains. Or they make a great side to all sorts of dishes.
Leftovers and Storage
To Store: Store leftover hamburger baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To Freeze: Leftover beef and beans can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To Reheat: Heat beans in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water until warmed through.
Make it Your Own
- Use a Combination of Beans- For extra texture, you can use an assortment of beans. My favorite combo is black beans, pinto beans and white beans.
- Add Bacon- If you prefer bacon in your baked beans, slice 6 strips and cook it with the ground beef mixture.
- Add Some Heat- Include one finely chopped jalapeño in the ground beef mixture at the same time as the onions.
Serving Ideas
There are so many delicious ways to enjoy these ground beef baked beans! Try them:
- As a Main: Serve these as a meal over some Greek yogurt mashed potatoes, grains or even pasta.
- With Pulled Pork: As a side with some slaw and fries, too.
- Alongside Burgers: Plus some potato salad and lemonade- yum!
- With Grilled Meats: Such as grilled chicken or ribs along with some cornbread.
- On a Sandwich: Add a layer to grilled cheese for an elevated sloppy joe's-ish sandwich.
- In a Baked Potato: Use them as a topping for a baked potato (or stuffed sweet potato).
- As Breakfast: Serving them on toast makes for a filling and easy breakfast.
Tips for the Best Ground Beef Beans
- Stir- And speaking of thick sauce, be sure to stir a few times throughout. The edges tend to caramelize quicker and so you want to incorporate that flavor throughout.
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Recipe Card
Baked Beans with Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 2 yellow onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 teaspoon salt divided, plus additional to taste
- 6 oz tomato paste
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoon mustard I used Dijon
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 2 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne
- ⅓ cup water
- 4 cans beans such as white or pinto beans (6 cups total)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 °F.
- Heat a large, heavy bottomed pot over medium heat and add the ground beef, onions and garlic along with 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook, stirring often to break up the ground beef until lightly browned and the onions are starting to soften.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a large roaster and add the tomato paste, maple syrup, vinegar, mustard, remaining 1 teaspoon of salt and spices.
- Once combined, stir in the beans along with the water.
- Bake for 1 and ½ to 2 hours until thickened, stirring every 45 minutes and adding water as needed and salt to taste.
- Enjoy!
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