Beanie Weanies
Beanie Weanies is a hearty, comforting dish combining baked beans, hot dogs, and flavorful seasonings. Its sweet, tangy, and savory profile makes it an easy crowd-pleaser perfect for casual family dinners or potlucks. Rich in protein and bold flavors, it's a satisfying meal for all ages.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chopped onion ⓘ
- 3/4 cup brown sugar ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon Crisco ⓘ
- 1 large can pork and beans ⓘ
- 1 can kidney beans, drained ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon black pepper ⓘ
- 2 packages wieners, cut up
- 1 package butter beans, cooked and drained ⓘ
Instructions
- Melt the Crisco in a large pan.
- Add chopped onion and bell pepper; cook until soft.
- Stir in brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer until the sugar is dissolved.
- Pour the mixture over hot dogs, butter beans, kidney beans, and pork and beans.
- Stir until well coated.
- Pour into a large dish, cover, and bake for 40 to 45 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you don't have Crisco, any vegetable oil will work. For a healthier option, substitute turkey or chicken wieners for the traditional hot dogs. You can also mix in some shredded cheese for a creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Beanie Weanies hot, garnished with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh touch. This dish pairs beautifully with Green Beans With Tomatoes for a colorful plate. For a complete meal, consider serving with crusty bread or a simple side salad to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, or reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beanie Weanies contains roughly 259 calories, with 7g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1364mg per serving (59% 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 different beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize the bean mixture to your liking. Black beans or pinto beans can be excellent substitutes for kidney beans, adding a different flavor profile while still maintaining the dish's heartiness.
Is there a vegetarian version of Beanie Weanies?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the wieners and using plant-based hot dogs or simply adding more beans. The flavors from the sauce will still make it delicious and satisfying.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top before baking to give it an extra kick. Adjust to your heat preference!
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).