Bean And Cabbage Casserole
A savory casserole combining smoky bacon, hearty barbecue beans, and tender cabbage, seasoned with vinegar and a touch of sugar. This dish offers a comforting, tangy flavor profile perfect for casual family dinners or potlucks, appealing to those who enjoy hearty, vegetable-rich meals with smoky undertones.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, cook bacon until crisp.
- Remove bacon and crumble it.
- Set aside the crumbled bacon.
- Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings.
- Add barbecue beans, shredded cabbage, vinegar, and sugar to the pan.
- Mix well and stir occasionally as it cooks.
- Garnish with the crumbled bacon before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke to the beans. If you want a vegetarian option, you can substitute the bacon with smoked paprika to achieve a similar taste. Adjust the sugar based on your preference for sweetness, as some barbecue beans can already be quite sweet. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Bean and Cabbage Casserole makes a hearty main dish and pairs beautifully with cornbread or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside some grilled chicken or pork recipes like Orange Baked Pork Chops. The flavors complement each other well, making for a satisfying dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, just be sure to cover them to avoid drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bean And Cabbage Casserole contains roughly 191 calories, with 6g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (10% 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 a different type of beans for this casserole?
Absolutely! While barbecue beans are traditional, you can substitute with other types like kidney beans or black beans. Just ensure they are well-seasoned, as this will impact the overall flavor of the casserole. Adjust the cooking time if using dried beans that need to be pre-cooked.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking. You could also use spicy barbecue beans if available. Adjust to your desired spice level, keeping in mind that the cabbage will mellow the heat slightly.
Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover, and store in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven, adjusting the baking time as necessary.
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).