Sweet and savory, hearty and filling—those are words that describe this delicious, yet simple, meal of Ground Beef And Beans that your family will love.
Ground beef is such a versatile protein that the meal possibilities are seemingly endless. From burgers to meatloaf, meatballs, skillet meals, and casseroles, you could serve it every day of the month and never make the same dish twice. One thing I had never thought of making before was ground beef and beans. Now that I know how good this sweet, smoky, flavorful dish is, I can see myself making it at least once a month.
Now, I’m not quite sure why I never thought to combine these two ingredients. After all, beans with hot dogs are one of my favorite comfort foods. I had never considered adding anything else to my beans—other than some extra sauces and seasonings to spice things up a bit. I must admit that I’m hooked on this combination, especially since it makes such a filling main course. Yes, I know, some people like to serve it as a side dish, especially at barbecues. I can see that, too. But for me, it is perfect with a little side salad or a green vegetable. Adding an extra half-pound to a pound of ground meat can make this dish even more of a hearty main course.
Another notable aspect of this recipe is that it is ideal for families on a budget. You can stretch your grocery dollars further with casserole-style dishes like this. And because you combine the meat with those savory beans, you don’t have to purchase ground round or ground chuck that you might want for juicy, flavorful burgers. Low-cost ground beef is ideal for this recipe. Just remember to drain the fat after cooking.
This dish is also easy to double or triple if you have a big crowd to feed, and like many foods, it tastes even better the second day. The sauce tends to thicken, which I love. And the flavors meld even more, giving you that perfect bite every time. And, since both beef and beans contain protein, you’re providing your family with a protein-packed meal that you can feel good about.
Delicious substitutions and suggestions
This hearty meal is one that I consider soul-satisfying—a comfort food that fills you up while also tasting delicious. Best of all, it is incredibly versatile, allowing you to use whatever ingredients you have on hand. For instance, if you have a package of ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, feel free to use it. Ground pork, veal, or lamb will also work, as will your favorite plant-based meat substitute, chopped mushrooms, or tofu crumbles. You can also add crumbled, cooked bacon for even more flavor. I’ve combined ground turkey with cooked turkey bacon, and the dish was delicious.
Any color of bell pepper will work in this recipe, with red pepper bringing a slightly sweeter taste than the savory green pepper. Coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup can be used as a substitute for brown sugar, each imparting a distinct flavor profile. You can spice up the beans and ground beef with some red pepper or hot sauce, or add a hint of smoked paprika for an added depth of flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Allow any leftover ground beef and beans to cool to room temperature before covering the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or its cover. You can also transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate them for up to 4 days. Once chilled, the leftovers can also be frozen in freezer-safe containers or zippered bags for up to 3 months. Defrost them overnight and reheat the casserole in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes or microwave them for 1 to 3 minutes, or until warm.
Serving suggestions
If I’m serving ground beef and beans as a main course, I like to add some crunch on the side, such as with this Southern Coleslaw Recipe, Apple Slaw Recipe, or Cucumber-Tomato Salad. Add some Cornbread With Creamed Corn for a delicious meal. To serve the beans and beef as a side dish, pair them with entrees such as Garlic Chicken Thighs, Hot Wings, or Pan-Seared Salmon for a delicious change of pace.
Ground Beef And Beans
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 green bell pepper finely chopped
- 3 cans (16 ounces each) kidney beans drained and rinsed
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 4 teaspoons mustard
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef, diced onion, and bell pepper until the beef turns brown. Drain any excess fat.
- Separately, in a large bowl, mix the cooked beef and onions with the kidney beans, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake uncovered for 75 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
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