Baked Pinto Beans
A hearty baked bean dish featuring pinto beans, fresh tomatoes, spicy peppers, and bacon, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large baking pan, combine cooked pinto beans, chopped onions, chopped hot peppers, and quartered tomatoes.
- Season with salt and add liquid if necessary to keep moist.
- Top the mixture with sliced bacon.
- Bake for about 1.5 hours until the bacon is crispy and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onions and hot peppers before mixing them with the beans. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or liquid smoke for a similar smoky flavor. You can also add spices like cumin or paprika to enhance the taste. For a heartier dish, mix in some cooked ground meat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked pinto beans as a main dish or alongside cornbread for a comforting meal. They pair beautifully with Maryann'S Pork Tenderloin or can be enjoyed as a hearty side with grilled meats. Fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime on top adds a refreshing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the beans moist. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covered, for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Pinto Beans contains roughly 450 calories, with 16g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1660mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned pinto beans instead of cooked ones?
Yes, you can use canned pinto beans to save time. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the baking pan. Reduce the baking time to about 30-45 minutes, just enough to meld the flavors and crisp the bacon.
What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider using smoked tempeh or a sprinkle of liquid smoke. You can also use turkey bacon for a lighter choice, or simply omit the bacon for a plant-based dish without sacrificing flavor.
How do I adjust the spice level for this dish?
To control the heat, choose milder peppers or reduce the quantity based on your preference. You can also remove the seeds from hot peppers before chopping or add a dollop of sour cream on top to balance the spiciness when serving.
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).