Baked Three Beans
Hearty baked three beans dish combining smoky bacon, sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for family dinners or potlucks with its rich, savory profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp and set aside.
- Cook onions in bacon drippings until translucent.
- Mix cooked onions, crumbled bacon, remaining ingredients, and seasonings in a baking dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider substituting smoked paprika for the black pepper. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace bacon with smoked tempeh or liquid smoke. Using a mix of different beans, such as black beans or chickpeas, can also enhance the dish. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar to taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Three Beans dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as chicken or steak, and is a hearty side for summer barbecues. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or cornbread for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, enjoy it with Cabbage Stuffed With Ham And Cheese for a satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Three Beans contains roughly 951 calories, with 13g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 844mg per serving (37% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and refrigerate overnight. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a non-meat option, try using smoked tempeh or a plant-based bacon. Liquid smoke can also impart a similar flavor to the dish without the meat. Adjust the seasoning to your preference to maintain the dish's flavor profile.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the mixture before baking. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving for an extra kick. Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
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).