Best In The West Barbecue Bean Bake
A hearty and flavorful barbecue bean bake combining smoky bacon, ground beef, and a rich mix of ketchup, barbecue sauce, and spices. Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, this dish offers a comforting blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. bacon, chopped ⓘ
- 1 onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1/2 cup ketchup ⓘ
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 3/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder ⓘ
- 4 tablespoons molasses ⓘ
- 4 tablespoons prepared mustard ⓘ
- 2 (16 oz.) cans red kidney beans ⓘ
- 2 (16 oz.) cans pork and beans ⓘ
- 2 (16 oz.) cans butter beans ⓘ
- 1 lb. ground beef ⓘ
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, bacon, and onion; drain excess fat.
- Combine all ingredients except the beans and stir well.
- Add the beans and mix thoroughly.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. If you're short on time, you can substitute the ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken. For a vegetarian option, try using a mix of plant-based meat and additional beans. Adjust the spices to your taste, especially if you prefer a spicier dish.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with cornbread or a fresh green salad. Serve it alongside coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Rice Pilaf or even serving it as a filling for baked potatoes. It’s a great addition to any barbecue spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best In The West Barbecue Bean Bake contains roughly 249 calories, with 11g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1058mg per serving (46% 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 types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute any type of canned beans you have on hand, such as black beans or pinto beans. Just ensure you drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium and achieve the desired consistency in your dish.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bean mixture a day in advance. Just assemble the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, allowing an extra 10-15 minutes of cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
What can I serve with this barbecue bean bake?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with classic American recipes like coleslaw or cornbread. You can also complement it with grilled vegetables or a light potato salad to balance the richness of the beans and meat.
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).