Best Beans Ever
A hearty baked bean casserole combining savory bacon, ground beef, and a sweet-savory sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry ground beef and chopped onions until browned; set aside.
- Mix ketchup, mustard, vinegar, and salt to create the sauce.
- Combine the cooked beef and onions with the sauce mixture.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smokier flavor, try using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce. If you don't have all the beans on hand, feel free to substitute with other canned beans like black beans or pinto beans. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can also give the dish a nice kick. For extra texture, consider mixing in some green bell pepper or celery with the onions.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Best Beans Ever with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Jan Stauffer's Hominy Casserole for a delightful side. A fresh green salad can balance out the richness of the dish, making for a well-rounded dinner. Don't forget to offer hot sauce on the side for those who like a bit of heat!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil to maintain moisture; heat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Beans Ever contains roughly 1782 calories, with 30g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 122g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (85% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and iron (44% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2007mg per serving (87% 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
How can I adjust the sweetness of the beans?
If you prefer your beans less sweet, reduce the amount of brown sugar in the recipe. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a bit more mustard or vinegar to the sauce. Taste as you go to find the right balance that suits your palate.
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).