Bean Quartet
A hearty bean casserole combining smoky bacon, tender beans, and sweet-savory flavors, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with comforting, bold tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook onion and bacon until bacon is crisp and onion is tender, but not brown.
- Drain the skillet mixture.
- In a 1 1/2-quart casserole, combine the onion and bacon mixture, garbanzo beans, lima beans, pork and beans, kidney beans, brown sugar, catsup, and vinegar.
- Bake, covered, in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 1 hour.
- Uncover and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until desired consistency.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika. You can substitute any of the beans with black beans or pinto beans based on your preference. If you're looking to reduce sugar, try using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of brown sugar. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside Jim Stack'S Chili for a flavorful combination. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover; heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a saucepan over low heat until hot, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bean Quartet contains roughly 1017 calories, with 19g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 812mg 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 make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetarian substitutes for the pork and beans, such as a meatless tomato sauce. You could also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bean mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Simply assemble it in the casserole dish, cover, and bake when ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
What can I serve with Bean Quartet?
Bean Quartet is deliciously filling on its own, but it pairs well with simple sides like coleslaw or a light vinaigrette salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside Pork Patties or fried potatoes for a satisfying dinner.
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).