Beans For A Bunch
Hearty baked bean casserole with smoky, sweet, and savory flavors, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining bacon, beef, and a rich tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and place it in the crock-pot.
- Brown the bacon and chopped onion, then add them to the crock-pot.
- Add the pork and beans, kidney beans, butter lima beans, catsup, brown sugar, liquid smoke, white vinegar, salt, and pepper to the crock-pot.
- Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours until flavors meld and beans are heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or jalapeños while browning the onion. If you want a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for ground beef and reduce the bacon. You can also use low-sodium beans and ketchup to lighten the dish. Experiment with different beans like black beans or navy beans for variety.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish is perfect on its own but pairs beautifully with cornbread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled vegetables or coleslaw for a delightful side. For a twist, use it as a filling for burritos or tacos, making it a versatile dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a pot over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat in the microwave in 1-2 minute increments until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beans For A Bunch contains roughly 653 calories, with 14g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 872mg per serving (38% 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 recipe vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef and bacon with plant-based alternatives like lentils or crumbled tofu, and use vegetable broth for added flavor. You can also include more beans and vegetables to enhance the dish without losing its hearty nature.
Can I cook this in a regular pot instead of a crock-pot?
Absolutely! If you don't have a crock-pot, you can cook this dish in a regular pot. Simply follow the same steps, then cover and simmer on low heat for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally until the flavors meld and the beans are heated through.
What can I serve with Beans For A Bunch?
Beans For A Bunch pairs well with cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad. You could also enjoy it with tortilla chips for a fun twist, or serve it alongside BBQ dishes for a classic American meal. For more ideas, check out other American recipes that complement this dish.
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).