3 Bean Casserole
This hearty 3 Bean Casserole combines the savory flavors of bacon, lean ground beef, and a medley of three types of beans, all baked to perfection. It's a comforting dish that brings warmth to family gatherings or weeknight dinners, perfect for those seeking a filling meal with rich, smoky undertones.
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, cut in 1/2-inch pieces ⓘ
- 1 lb. lean ground beef ⓘ
- 1 large onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1/2 c. packed brown sugar
- 1/2 c. ketchup ⓘ
- 1 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. prepared brown mustard ⓘ
- 1 (1 lb.) can green baby lima beans, drained ⓘ
- 1 (1 lb.) can New England style baked beans ⓘ
- 1 (1 lb.) can red kidney beans ⓘ
Instructions
- Fry bacon in a large skillet until crisp; remove bacon.
- Brown onion in the bacon fat; drain off fat.
- Add crumbled beef and cook until no longer pink.
- Add bacon and remaining ingredients; mix with a fork.
- Turn into a bean pot or large casserole.
- Cover and bake in a slow oven at 300° for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, you can substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you're short on time, consider using pre-cooked bacon or even turkey bacon for a healthier variation. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the flavor profile. For more hearty ideas, browse more American recipes that feature beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the 3 Bean Casserole alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or coleslaw, enhancing the comforting flavors of the dish. This casserole is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, making it a go-to comfort food for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 3 Bean Casserole contains roughly 377 calories, with 12g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2280mg per serving (99% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add an extra 15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also top the casserole with shredded cheese and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before baking for an extra kick.
Can I use different types of beans?
Yes! Feel free to swap out any of the beans for your favorites, such as black beans or pinto beans. Just make sure to keep the total amount of beans the same for the best consistency in the casserole.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).