Baked Beans Hot Dish
A hearty baked beans hot dish featuring bacon, ground beef, and a sweet-savory sauce, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute bacon and chopped onion together in a skillet until bacon is crispy and onion is softened.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and brown until fully cooked.
- In a casserole dish, combine drained lima beans, drained kidney beans, butter beans, and pork and beans.
- Add brown sugar, vinegar, catsup, dry mustard, and salt to the beans and mix well.
- Pour the cooked bacon, onion, and ground beef mixture over the beans and stir to combine.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F (163°C) for 1 hour until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smokier flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a few drops of liquid smoke. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon and ground beef with mushrooms and additional beans. You can also experiment with different types of beans or add chopped bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Beans Hot Dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled meats or BBQ chicken. It’s also great for potlucks or family gatherings, where it can be the star of the table or a comforting side dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a covered saucepan over low heat on the stove.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Beans Hot Dish contains roughly 329 calories, with 16g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 795mg per serving (35% 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 dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but they need to be soaked and cooked prior to adding them to the dish. Make sure to cook them until tender, then combine them with the other ingredients as directed in the recipe.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you're looking for a substitute for bacon, turkey bacon or pancetta can be used for a lighter option. For a vegetarian alternative, sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh can provide a similar savory flavor without meat.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed until heated through.
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).