Summer is the perfect time to enjoy hearty and delicious meals with friends and family. One dish that never fails to impress is baked beans. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for a comforting side dish, baked beans can be a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we’ll share a mouth-watering baked beans recipe that includes hamburger and a smoky twist, perfect for your summer gatherings.

Why Choose Baked Beans?

Baked beans are not only tasty but also versatile. They can be served as a side dish or even as a main course. The combination of beans, sweet and savory sauce, and a hint of smokiness makes them irresistible. Plus, they are packed with protein and fiber, making them a nutritious choice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delicious baked beans, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cans (28 ounces each) of baked beans
• 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup of ketchup
• 1/4 cup of brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon of mustard
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients are easy to find and come together to create a flavorful dish that everyone will love.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure to gather all your ingredients and have them ready. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. Make sure to break it into small pieces as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat.
2. Cook the Onion: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Mixing the Beans and Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef and onions with the baked beans, barbecue sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. Remember, the barbecue sauce and baked beans already contain some salt, so be cautious not to over-season.

Baking the Beans

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a large baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
3. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. The sauce should be bubbly and slightly thickened.

Tips for the Best Baked Beans

Use Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality ingredients can make a big difference in the taste of your baked beans. Opt for a good brand of baked beans and barbecue sauce. If you can, use fresh onions and high-quality ground beef.

Add a Smoky Flavor

The optional liquid smoke adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the beans. If you’re a fan of smoked dishes, don’t skip this ingredient. You can also use smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.

Make It Ahead

Baked beans can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. This can be a huge time-saver if you’re preparing for a big gathering. Simply follow the recipe, let the beans cool, and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Variations to Try

Vegetarian Option

If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can easily omit the ground beef. You can add more beans or even some chopped vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

Spicy Baked Beans

For those who love a bit of heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. This will give your baked beans a spicy kick that’s sure to be a hit.

Sweet and Tangy

If you like your baked beans on the sweeter side, add a bit more brown sugar or even some molasses. For a tangier flavor, increase the amount of mustard or add a splash of apple cider vinegar.

Serving Suggestions

Baked beans are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are a few ideas:

• As a Side Dish: Serve baked beans alongside grilled meats like chicken, ribs, or burgers. They complement the smoky flavors of barbecued dishes perfectly.
• On Toast: For a simple yet delicious meal, serve baked beans on toast. This is a popular option for breakfast or a light lunch.
• In a Baked Potato: Hollow out a baked potato and fill it with baked beans for a hearty and filling meal.
• With Cornbread: Pair baked beans with a slice of warm cornbread for a classic Southern dish.

Final Thoughts

Baked beans are a beloved dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings. This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef, sweet and tangy sauce, and a hint of smokiness to create a dish that’s sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a batch of these delicious baked beans in no time.

So, the next time you’re planning a barbecue or looking for a comforting side dish, give this baked beans recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

By following this recipe and adding your own twist, you can create a dish that’s uniquely yours. Enjoy your summer with this delicious baked beans recipe!