Aunt Millie'S Calico Beans
A hearty baked bean casserole with smoky bacon, ground beef, and savory seasonings, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings craving comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the bacon and ground beef in a skillet.
- Add the remaining ingredients to the cooked meat and bacon mixture.
- Transfer everything to a baking dish and bake for 1 hour at 350°F (175°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, try adding smoked paprika or substituting some of the bacon with smoked sausage. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of the bacon drippings. Ensure the beans are drained and rinsed to reduce sodium content. This dish is great for meal prep and can be made in advance.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Millie's Calico Beans with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with sides like coleslaw or a simple green salad to balance the richness. This dish also makes a fantastic filling for baked potatoes or can be enjoyed as a standalone meal. Consider accompanying it with a refreshing drink like iced tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Millie'S Calico Beans contains roughly 934 calories, with 14g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 677mg per serving (29% 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 use different types of beans?
Absolutely! You can substitute any canned beans you prefer or have on hand, such as black beans or chickpeas. Just keep the total amount of beans similar to ensure the balance of flavors and textures in the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the calico beans ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish without baking and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover calico beans can be transformed into a delicious chili by adding diced tomatoes and spices. You can also use them as a filling for tacos, or blend them into a soup for a hearty meal. They freeze well, so consider portioning them out for easy meals later.
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).