Southern Pinto Beans with Ground Beef: A Hearty, Comforting Southern Classic

Serving: Serve Southern Pinto Beans with Ground Beef as a main dish with a side of cornbread, steamed rice, or over baked potatoes for a filling meal.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Variants:

Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of this dish. You can add more beans or sautéed vegetables for added texture.
Spicy Pinto Beans: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick to the beans.
Slow Cooker Option: To make this dish in a slow cooker, follow the same steps for cooking the ground beef and sautéing the vegetables. Then, add the beans, broth, and spices to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beans are tender.
FAQ:

Can I use canned pinto beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use 2-3 cans of pinto beans, drained and rinsed. Add them to the pot after cooking the beef and vegetables, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors continue to improve as it sits, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.

Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or zucchini to make the dish even heartier and more flavorful.