Tex-Mex Beef and Beans for a Potluck Dinner
If you’re seeking a dish that’s both a crowd-pleaser and a culinary adventure, this Tex-Mex Beef and Beans recipe is a superb choice for your next potluck. With its robust flavors, hearty ingredients, and a touch of Southwestern flair, it’s bound to be the star of the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between ease and excellence, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or larger gatherings.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories per Serving: 566.9
Ingredients:
- Ground Beef: 3 lbs
- Onions: 1 1/2 cups, chopped
- Celery: 1 cup, chopped
- Boiling Water: 2 cups
- Catsup: 2/3 cup
- Chili Powder: 2 tbsp
- Prepared Mustard: 1 1/2 tbsp
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Pepper: 3 dashes
- Bacon: 1 lb, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Brown the Beef and Vegetables: In a large ovenproof pan, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and celery, continuing to cook until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables are softened.
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Prepare the Broth: Dissolve beef bouillon in the boiling water. Pour this mixture into the browned beef and vegetable mixture.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the catsup, chili powder, prepared mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
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Bake: Cover the pan and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 60 minutes or until the mixture is bubbly and flavors are well combined.
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Add Bacon: Remove from the oven, stir the mixture, and top with the bacon pieces. Return to the oven uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the bacon is crispy.
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Serve: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 566.9
- Fat Content: 32.1 g
- Saturated Fat Content: 11.6 g
- Cholesterol Content: 105.7 mg
- Sodium Content: 1408.8 mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 38.8 g
- Fiber Content: 6.3 g
- Sugar Content: 19.4 g
- Protein Content: 32.5 g
Why This Recipe Works:
Flavor Profile: This Tex-Mex dish brings together the rich, meaty flavor of ground beef with the tangy sweetness of catsup, the slight heat of chili powder, and the punch of prepared mustard. The garlic adds depth, while the celery and onions contribute both flavor and texture. The bacon on top provides a savory, crispy contrast that enhances every bite.
Convenience: The preparation is straightforward, making it an excellent option for both novice and seasoned cooks. The one-dish approach simplifies cooking and cleanup, allowing you to focus more on enjoying the meal and less on the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
Versatility: This dish can be served in various ways to suit different occasions. Pair it with cornbread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for a fun and casual dining experience.
Nutritional Balance: While hearty and indulgent, this recipe also provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a satisfying main course that can keep your guests full and happy.
Tips and Variations:
Substitute the Beef: If you prefer a leaner option or need to accommodate dietary restrictions, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This will reduce the fat content without compromising too much on flavor.
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian twist, replace the beef with a plant-based ground meat substitute or a mix of black beans and lentils. Ensure to adjust the seasoning to taste, as plant-based proteins can sometimes require a bit more flavor enhancement.
Add Heat: If you like a bit more spice, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking. Smoked paprika can also add a subtle heat and a smoky undertone that complements the chili powder.
Cheese Lover’s Option: For an extra layer of indulgence, sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the dish in the last 10 minutes of baking. Let it melt and form a golden, gooey topping that pairs wonderfully with the crispy bacon.
Beans Choice: While the recipe doesn’t call for beans directly, you can incorporate pinto or kidney beans into the mix. Drain and rinse a can of beans, then stir them in before baking for additional texture and fiber.
Herb Garnish: Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the dish.
Serving Ideas: This dish is perfect served with a dollop of sour cream, a side of guacamole, or some freshly sliced avocado. It also pairs well with a side of Spanish rice or a light coleslaw to add a refreshing contrast.
Storage and Reheating:
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish also freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until hot.
Final Thoughts:
This Tex-Mex Beef and Beans recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the bold, comforting flavors of the Southwestern United States to your table. Its ease of preparation, versatility in serving options, and crowd-pleasing taste make it a perfect choice for any potluck or family gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to whip up something special without too much fuss, this dish promises to deliver on both flavor and satisfaction. Enjoy the warm, hearty comfort it offers, and watch as it becomes a staple in your culinary repertoire.
