Beans And More
Beans And More is a hearty, smoky baked bean dish packed with savory ground meat, crispy bacon, and sweetened with ketchup and brown sugar. Perfect for family gatherings or casual cookouts, its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground meat in a skillet and drain off excess grease.
- Brown bacon slices and chopped onions in the same skillet.
- Combine all ingredients—including pork and beans, pinto beans, cooked ground meat, bacon, onions, ketchup, brown sugar, and liquid smoke—in a crock-pot.
- Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours until flavors meld and dish is heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of chili powder or smoked paprika to the mix. If you're short on time, canned beans can be substituted with frozen or pre-cooked beans. You can use turkey or chicken instead of ground meat for a lighter option. Adjust the sweetness by varying the brown sugar based on your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Beans And More dish hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or sliced green onions. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a simple green salad for a hearty meal. For a fun twist, you can serve it over baked potatoes or rice. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish until heated through. You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months; just ensure it's well-sealed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beans And More contains roughly 487 calories, with 5g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground meat with plant-based meat alternatives or add more beans for protein. Using vegetable broth instead of liquid smoke can also enhance the flavor without the meat.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the mixture. You could also use spicy sausage instead of ground meat for a flavorful kick.
Is there a way to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients and combine them in the crock-pot the night before. Just refrigerate overnight and cook in the morning. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for an easy meal option.
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).