This Ground Beef and Beans recipe is a hearty, satisfying dish that combines savory ground beef with nutrient-rich beans, creating a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe brings comfort food to the forefront with its rich, robust taste and simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether served over rice, in a tortilla, or on its own, this dish is sure to please the whole family.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with this ground beef and beans recipe for its incredible flavor and versatility. Growing up, my family often made variations of this dish, filling our home with the tantalizing aroma of spices and simmering beef. It was a staple during cold winter nights, providing warmth and nourishment. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability; you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it a go-to for those looking to create a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions can elevate the flavor profile significantly. Don’t skip them!
- Brown the Beef Well: Take your time browning the ground beef; this adds a depth of flavor to the entire dish.
- Don’t Drain the Beans: If you’re using canned beans, consider adding them along with their liquid for additional moisture and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking; adding a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika can give the dish an exciting kick.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow the dish to simmer on low for at least 20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Make Ahead Tips
This ground beef and beans recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can cook the ground beef and beans mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well, so consider making a double batch and storing half in the freezer for up to three months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Recipe Variations
- Meat Swap: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
- Spicy Version: Include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Vegan Alternative: Replace ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat for a delicious vegan option.
How to Serve
Serve the finished dish warm, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream. For a complete meal, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or in warm tortillas for a tasty burrito. A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top can add a nice touch as well.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this ground beef and beans dish with a refreshing margarita or a chilled lager for a delightful contrast. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with lime or iced tea complements the dish beautifully. As for sides, a crisp green salad or cornbread can enhance the meal, while a slice of chocolate cake can make for a satisfying dessert.
How to Store
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can last up to 4 days. If you plan to freeze some, ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a pot over low heat, or use the microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
You will need a large skillet or frying pan to cook the ground beef and beans. A wooden spoon for stirring, and measuring spoons for the spices are also essential. If you prefer, you can use a slow cooker for a hands-off cooking method.
Dietary Adaptations
For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or sour cream and use dairy-free alternatives. To make it gluten-free, ensure that any sauces or condiments used are gluten-free. For a nut-free recipe, this dish is inherently nut-free, but always double-check your ingredients.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, consider adding fresh tomatoes and corn to brighten the dish. In fall or winter, you can incorporate roasted butternut squash for a seasonal twist. Using fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also enhance the flavors during the warmer months.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use dried beans instead of canned? Yes! Just soak and cook the beans beforehand as they will require more time.
- What can I substitute for ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives work well.
- How long does this dish take to cook? The total cook time is about 30-40 minutes, depending on your simmering time.
- Can I make this recipe spicy? Absolutely! Add your favorite hot sauce or diced jalapeños during cooking for heat.
How To Make Ground Beef and Beans Recipe
Ground Beef and Beans Recipe
This Ground Beef and Beans recipe is a hearty, satisfying dish that combines savory ground beef with nutrient-rich beans, creating a delightful medley of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is cooked through, add the drained beans and diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet.
- Stir everything together and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished as desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 496Total Fat 24gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 13gCholesterol 101mgSodium 1085mgCarbohydrates 35gFiber 7gSugar 11gProtein 38g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This ground beef and beans recipe is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to gather friends and family around the dinner table. With its flexible nature, you can easily tailor it to your preferences and enjoy it in various ways. I hope you give this recipe a try and create your own memorable moments around it, just like my family did. Happy cooking!
