Bean Pot
A hearty bean pot combining sweet and tangy flavors with savory hamburger and smoky bacon grease. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish offers a comforting blend of beans, onions, bell peppers, and a flavorful sauce that simmers to perfection in either the oven or slow cooker.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry hamburger, onions, and bell pepper until browned, then drain.
- Add all canned beans (without draining), cooked hamburger mixture, mustard, catsup, vinegar, brown sugar, bacon grease, salt, and pepper to a large pot or slow cooker.
- Cook in an electric fry pan at 350°F for 30 minutes or in a slow cooker on low for 2 to 3 hours, until heated through and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding diced smoked sausage or substituting the hamburger with turkey for a leaner option. You can also use fresh beans if you prefer; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you like a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. This recipe is versatile and pairs well with other American recipes like Grandpa's Goulash.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a main course and can be served alongside cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider serving it in a bread bowl. It also makes a great side for barbecues or potlucks, making it a versatile addition to your meal planning.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave; heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bean Pot contains roughly 677 calories, with 20g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), protein (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1223mg per serving (53% 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 beans?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Typically, you'll want to soak them overnight and then boil until tender before adding them to the rest of the ingredients. Adjust the cooking time in the recipe accordingly to ensure they meld well with the other flavors.
What can I serve with Bean Pot?
Bean Pot pairs beautifully with cornbread or a crisp green salad. You can also serve it alongside grilled meats or as a side dish at barbecues. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with rice or baked potatoes, which can balance the flavors nicely.
How can I make Bean Pot vegetarian?
To make Bean Pot vegetarian, simply omit the hamburger and replace it with a mix of sautéed mushrooms or lentils for added protein. You can also enhance the flavor with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the richness of meat. The dish remains flavorful and satisfying without the meat.
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).