Baked Beef and Beans
Try this easy and flavorful baked beef and beans recipe. A delicious option for a quick and satisfying meal!
Beefy beans make a hearty, satisfying main dish — especially with a side of cornbread and a crisp green salad or creamy slaw. This easy baked recipe uses canned pork and beans combined with ground beef, bell pepper, and onion, all brought together with a savory-sweet barbecue-style sauce.
Whether you use Boston-style baked beans or your favorite maple or tomato-based version, the result is a flavorful and filling meal that comes together with minimal effort. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Why You’ll Love It
Hearty and comforting. Ground beef and baked beans create a filling, flavorful main dish.
Pantry-friendly. Uses affordable ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Quick prep. Just brown, stir, and bake — perfect for busy days.
Easy to customize. Adapt it to your spice preference, meat of choice, or favorite sauce.
Ingredient Notes
- Ground beef – 85% lean is a great balance for flavor and moisture.
- Onion – A medium yellow or sweet onion adds depth and savoriness.
- Green bell pepper – Adds color and mild flavor; other peppers can be used.
- Brown sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
- Worcestershire sauce – Brings umami and depth to the sauce.
- Ketchup – Adds tangy, tomato-based flavor and binds the sauce.
- Pork and beans – Use your favorite brand and style of canned pork and beans.
- Optional garnishes – Sliced green onions or shredded cheese for added flavor and color.
Steps to Make Baked Beef and Beans
- Heat the oven to 325°F and grease a 2-quart baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef for about 4 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, then cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender.
- Drain excess grease, then stir in the brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and pork and beans.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbling.
- Garnish with green onions or shredded cheese if desired, and serve warm.
Tips
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the beef if you don’t want to drain the pan.
- Make it in advance and reheat for even better flavor the next day.
- Choose your favorite beans — smoky, maple, or spicy varieties all work well.
Recipe Variations
- Add heat. Use crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a spicy ketchup.
- Swap the meat. Ground turkey, pork, chorizo, or sausage all work as tasty alternatives.
- Use barbecue sauce. Replace the sugar, ketchup, and Worcestershire with 1 cup of barbecue sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a pan of warm cornbread or cornbread muffins.
- Pair with coleslaw or a simple green salad for balance.
- Add baked potatoes or rice for a heartier meal.
- Include pickles or relish on the side for a tangy contrast.
How to Store (and Reheat, if applicable)
Refrigerate: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
To Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until evenly warmed.
Baked Beef and Beans
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 30 ounces pork and beans, 2 cans
- Optional garnishes: green onions or shredded cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Heat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish.
- Cook the Beef and Aromatics: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef; break it into smaller pieces and cook undisturbed for 4 minutes. Add the onion and bell pepper and continue cooking, stirring, for 4 to 5 minutes longer or until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is translucent. Drain excess grease and add the remaining ingredients.
- Bake: Spoon the bean mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbling.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions or cheese if desired, and enjoy!
Nutrition
Disclaimer:
Our nutritional information is based on a third-party application that analyzes the ingredients list to determine the values. The information is meant to be helpful, but should be considered an estimate. Values may differ depending on measurements, brands, serving variations, and database availability.
