Best Of The West Beans
A hearty baked bean dish with savory bacon, ground beef, and a smoky barbecue flavor, perfect for family gatherings and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook, scramble, and drain the hamburger.
- Dice the onion and add it to the cooked hamburger.
- Combine all other ingredients in a large pot or baking dish.
- Add the cooked hamburger and onion mixture to the beans and sauce.
- Simmer until heated through and flavors meld, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, try using smoked paprika instead of chili powder. If you want to cut down on fat, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Adding a splash of hot sauce can also give it an extra kick. For a vegetarian version, replace meat with mushrooms and use plant-based bacon. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and can be made ahead of time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Best Of The West Beans as a hearty main dish or as a side at your next barbecue. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or cornbread. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh green salad, like a Bacon-Swiss Tossed Salad, or some crusty bread. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings and is sure to be a hit.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Of The West Beans contains roughly 231 calories, with 5g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value), potassium (14% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 546mg per serving (24% 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 in advance?
Yes, this recipe is great for making ahead of time. Just prepare it fully, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. It can be made a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld even more. Just reheat it before serving.
What beans can I use instead of kidney beans?
You can substitute red kidney beans with pinto beans or black beans for a different flavor profile. If using canned beans, just be sure to rinse and drain them to reduce sodium content. Each type of bean will bring its own unique taste and texture to the dish.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and bacon. You can replace them with sautéed mushrooms and use a plant-based bacon alternative. This will still provide a rich flavor and satisfy those looking for a meat-free 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).