### Baked Beans with Ground Beef: A Summer Classic
Nothing says summer quite like a hearty dish of Baked Beans with Ground Beef. This crowd-pleasing recipe is perfect for your next cookout or family gathering, offering a delicious, satisfying dish that is both simple to make and packed with flavor. With a combination of ground beef, crispy bacon, and a savory-sweet sauce, this meal is sure to become a staple in your seasonal menu.
### Ingredients
For this flavorful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 6 slices bacon, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cans (16 ounces each) pork and beans
– 1 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
### Instructions
1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Cook the Ground Beef**: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
3. **Add Bacon**: Add the chopped bacon to the skillet. Cook until the bacon is crispy, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. **Incorporate Onion and Garlic**: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Continue to cook until the onion becomes translucent, releasing its sweet flavor into the dish.
5. **Mix in Remaining Ingredients**: Stir in the pork and beans, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the flavors blend well together.
6. **Transfer to a Baking Dish**: Pour the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. **Bake**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the beans to fully cook.
8. **Cool and Serve**: Let the dish cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavor profile. Enjoy!
### Notes
– **Versatility**: Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite beans or incorporating additional spices like smoked paprika or barbecue sauce for a smoky kick.
– **Make-Ahead**: This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Simply reheat it before serving.
– **Vegetarian Option**: To make a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use a meat substitute or additional beans.
### Suggestions
– **Pairings**: Serve these Baked Beans with Ground Beef alongside grilled hot dogs, burgers, or chicken for a complete meal.
– **Toppings**: Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and added freshness.
– **Sides**: Complement the dish with summer classics like coleslaw, potato salad, or cornbread.
### Conclusion
Baked Beans with Ground Beef is a delicious, easy-to-make recipe that is sure to become a favorite at your summer gatherings. The combination of hearty flavors and satisfying textures makes it a perfect addition to any cookout or family meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and leave a lasting impression.
### FAQ
**Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?**
A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef.
**Q: How long can leftovers be stored?**
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
**Q: Can I freeze the baked beans?**
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked beans for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
**Q: What type of beans can I use if I don’t have pork and beans?**
A: If you don’t have pork and beans, you can use baked beans or a mixture of pinto and kidney beans for a similar result.
Keep your gatherings delicious and memorable with this satisfying and easy-to-make Baked Beans with Ground Beef recipe! #BakedBeans #GroundBeef #SummerRecipes #FamilyMeal #Cookout #ComfortFood #HomemadeCooking #EasyRecipes.