Baked Beans with Ground Beef: The Ultimate Hearty Dish That Feels Like Home

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

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.

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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 r

ich, 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.

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.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. 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.
3. Drain excess fat to prevent your baked beans from becoming too greasy.