Baked Beans with Ground Beef – Ultimate Family Comfort Recipe (2025)

Baked Beans with Ground Beef is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Welcome to homeasyrecipes.com where tradition meets taste. Hello! I’m Anna, the heart behind HomeasyRecipes, a cozy corner dedicated to celebrating timeless recipes and the warmth of shared meals. Inspired by my beloved grandmother Mary, this site is my way of sharing her wisdom, her love, and her knack for turning simple ingredients into unforgettable meals.

If you’re like me, you want recipes that actually work—ones that don’t leave you scouring the grocery store for rare ingredients or scrubbing pots for hours. That’s exactly why I created this site. Here, you’ll find family-friendly meals, quick weeknight wonders, and plenty of soul-satisfying comfort food like these baked beans with ground beef.

This recipe is all about simplicity. With pantry staples, minimal prep, and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or when you just need a dish that tastes like home. Plus, it’s flexible enough to adapt for your family’s taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this is one you’ll return to again and again.

Looking for more cozy classics? Check out these Cheesy Potato Burritos with Beef for another hearty dinner idea.

Table of Contents

Why Baked Beans with Ground Beef is a Must-Try Comfort Dish

The Story Behind the Dish

For generations, baked beans have been a symbol of home-cooked goodness. When ground beef is added, it transforms this simple side dish into a satisfying main course. It’s no wonder so many families keep this recipe on rotation—it’s hearty, affordable, and hits all the right flavor notes.

This variation started in kitchens like my grandmother Mary’s, where recipes were born out of necessity and love. She taught me that food doesn’t have to be fancy to be memorable. Just like her, this baked beans with ground beef recipe relies on familiar flavors to create something extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love It

Adding ground beef gives baked beans a rich, savory depth that turns them into a complete meal. Each bite delivers a balance of sweetness from brown sugar and ketchup, tang from mustard and Worcestershire sauce, and the heartiness of tender beef. It’s a dish that works equally well for Sunday suppers or feeding a hungry crowd at your next barbecue.

Don’t miss our Ground Beef Sweet Potato Bowl for another way to make ground beef the star of your dinner table.

Essential Ingredients for Baked Beans with Ground Beef

Classic Ingredients That Make This Dish Shine

What makes baked beans with ground beef so irresistible is the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this comfort classic in your own kitchen:

1 pound ground beef – The star ingredient for hearty flavor.
1 large onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth.
4 (12-ounce) cans baked beans – Choose your favorite brand; no need to drain them.
3/4 cup brown sugar – Gives that rich, caramel sweetness.
1/2 cup ketchup – A tangy balance to the sweetness.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Brings umami and complexity.
1 tablespoon mustard – For a slight sharpness.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – A subtle hint of garlic to round it out.
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A mild kick for balance.

This mix creates a rich, saucy base that coats every bean and bit of beef perfectly.

Smart Ingredient Swaps and Flavor Add-Ins

One of the best things about baked beans with ground beef is how easy it is to adapt. Here are some creative variations:

Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce if you want a deeper, smoky sweetness.
Throw in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
Mix in shredded cheese before baking for a gooey, cheesy topping.

These swaps make it easy to tailor the dish for picky eaters or adventurous palates.

Ingredients for baked beans with ground beef on kitchen counter — All the ingredients needed for baked beans with ground beef

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Results

Preparing the Ground Beef and Onion Base

To make baked beans with ground beef the right way, start by focusing on the base. This step sets the stage for layers of rich flavor.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, cook 1 pound ground beef and 1 chopped large onion over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the beef is no longer pink and the onions turn soft and translucent.
Drain excess fat to prevent your baked beans from becoming too greasy.

Ground beef and onions cooking in cast iron skillet — Browning ground beef and onions for the perfect base

This simple step infuses your dish with deep, savory notes.

Mixing the Ingredients

Once the beef and onions are cooked, combine them with the other ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, add 4 cans of baked beans, 3/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon mustard, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
Stir until everything is well blended.

Baking to Perfection

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Bake uncovered for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
You’ll know it’s done when the surface is bubbly and slightly caramelized.

Baked beans with ground beef cooking in cast iron skillet — Baked beans with ground beef simmering in a cast iron skillet

The result? A thick, hearty, and slightly sticky baked beans with ground beef dish that smells like heaven.

Tips for the Best Baked Beans with Ground Beef

Should You Drain Canned Baked Beans Before Cooking?

No, you don’t have to. The sauce in canned baked beans enhances the dish’s richness and prevents it from drying out. If you prefer a thicker texture, you can drain a portion of the liquid, but keeping it in is highly recommended for full flavor.

Getting the Right Texture Every Time

To achieve the perfect consistency:

Bake uncovered to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
For extra thickness, stir in 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in water before baking.
If you like it saucier, cover the dish with foil for half the baking time.

Baked beans with ground beef served in a white bowl with cornbread — Hearty baked beans with ground beef served with cornbread

Delicious Variations to Try

BBQ Baked Beans with Ground Beef

Transform your dish with a smoky twist:

Replace ketchup with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Add crumbled bacon on top before baking for irresistible smokiness.

Tex-Mex Style Baked Beans with Ground Beef

Bring a Southwest flair to your table:

Mix in 1 packet taco seasoning and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
Serve with tortilla chips for a hearty Tex-Mex bake.

Sweet and Spicy Kick

For those who like a little heat:

Add 1 diced jalapeño and a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Balance the spice with an extra tablespoon of brown sugar.

These variations make baked beans with ground beef incredibly versatile, whether you’re cooking for a crowd or customizing for family tastes.

The Best Sides to Serve with Baked Beans and Ground Beef

Elevate Your Meal with Perfect Pairings

While baked beans with ground beef is hearty enough to stand alone, pairing it with the right sides can turn a simple dinner into a memorable feast. Imagine spooning a rich, savory helping of beans onto your plate alongside warm, golden cornbread or a crisp garden salad—the balance of flavors and textures makes every bite better.

Here are our favorite pairings to make your meal complete:

Buttery Cornbread: The sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread beautifully complements the smoky-sweet flavor of baked beans with ground beef. Bake it in a cast-iron skillet for extra crunch on the edges.
Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, tangy slaw cuts through the richness of the dish and adds a refreshing crunch. It’s a classic BBQ companion that also works wonders here.
Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted with garlic and olive oil create a healthy, flavorful side that balances the hearty beans.
Classic Potato Salad: Creamy and comforting, potato salad adds another layer of nostalgia to the meal and keeps it feeling like a true Southern classic.

Fresh Salads for a Lighter Touch

If you’re craving something on the lighter side, salads are your best friend. Consider these quick combos:

A crisp garden salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette.
A vibrant spinach and strawberry salad drizzled with balsamic glaze for sweet and tart notes.
A traditional Caesar salad to keep things simple and satisfying.

Pairing these sides with baked beans and ground beef means you’ll have a well-rounded meal that delights every palate. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a weeknight or hosting a summer cookout, these combinations never fail to impress.

When home cooks explore baked beans with ground beef, they often search for related ideas to make the dish even better. These questions naturally come up and help customize the recipe to individual tastes.

Can you freeze baked beans with ground beef?
Yes, this dish freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, transfer to airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven for the best results.
How do you make baked beans taste richer?
Enhance the depth of flavor by adding a splash of apple cider vinegar, a few strips of crumbled bacon, or a touch of smoked paprika.
What meats go well with baked beans?
Aside from ground beef, try smoked sausage, pulled pork, or crispy bacon to create bold flavor combinations.
What to make with hamburger meat and beans besides this recipe?
Think chili, taco casseroles, shepherd’s pie, or even a hearty Tex-Mex skillet. These are all fantastic ways to use the same ingredients creatively.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort Food at Its Finest

There’s a reason this baked beans with ground beef recipe is a favorite in kitchens across the country. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavors that feel like a warm embrace.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a laid-back family dinner, a backyard BBQ, or a potluck with friends, this dish fits right in. Its rich flavors and hearty texture make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

A Recipe That Keeps on Giving

Leftovers? Even better the next day. Freeze portions for a quick meal on busy nights or serve them as a side to grilled meats for a full feast.

Looking for a rich and flavorful variation? Check out Taste of Home’s Hearty Baked Beans Recipe for a crowd-pleasing favorite

What meat goes well with baked beans?

smoked sausage are excellent additions if you want to amplify the smoky and savory profile of baked beans.

What’s the difference between Boston baked beans and regular baked beans?

Boston baked beans are traditionally sweetened with molasses and often cooked with salt pork. Regular baked beans can vary in sweetness and typically don’t use molasses, making them slightly less rich.

What to make with hamburger meat and beans?

Aside from this baked beans with ground beef dish, you can try chili, beef and bean burritos, or even a hearty layered taco bake for variety.

Do you drain canned baked beans before cooking?

No need to drain them. The liquid helps maintain the moisture and provides extra flavor as the beans bake.

Conclusion

There’s something undeniably special about a dish that combines simplicity, flavor, and nostalgia all in one. This baked beans with ground beef recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a reminder of family gatherings, cozy weeknight dinners, and the joy of sharing food made with love. With its perfect blend of sweet, savory, and smoky notes, it’s no wonder this dish has stood the test of time in so many kitchens.

Whether you’re making it for a potluck, a weeknight dinner, or just because you’re craving comfort food, this recipe delivers every time. The best part? It’s easy enough for even the busiest home cook, yet impressive enough to serve to guests.

So grab your skillet, preheat your oven, and let the irresistible aroma of baked beans with ground beef fill your home. Trust me—this is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.

Looking for your next cozy meal? Check out these Cheesy Potato Burritos with Beef for another family favorite.