Best Pear Preserves
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, beans, and rice topped with sliced apples and brown sugar, offering sweet and savory flavors perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble beef into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish; add chopped onion. Microwave on High, uncovered, for 5 to 6 minutes or until meat is no longer pink; drain.
- Add pork and beans, cooked rice, catsup, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, mustard, and pepper. Mix well.
- Cut apple into 10 thin slices.
- Arrange apple slices in a clockwise pattern on top of the casserole.
- Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon brown sugar.
- Cover with lid.
- Microwave at High for 8 to 9 minutes or until heated through (150°F).
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter preserve, consider adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pears while cooking. If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve some of the pear slices to fold in at the end rather than fully mashing. You can substitute the pears with apples for a different flavor profile. This recipe can also be adapted to make a savory dip by adding herbs and spices.
Serving Suggestions
These pear preserves are perfect as a topping for toast, pancakes, or yogurt. Serve them alongside cheese and crackers for a delightful appetizer. They also pair beautifully with Southern Style Short Ribs Of Beef for a sweet-savory contrast. Consider using them as a glaze for roasted meats or as a filling in pastries for a delicious dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover preserves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For best results, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave in short intervals, but be careful not to overheat, which can change the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Pear Preserves contains roughly 1347 calories, with 12g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (229% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and potassium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1360mg per serving (59% 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 canned pears instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pears, but be sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar accordingly, as they may already have added sweetness. Fresh pears typically provide a better texture and flavor, but canned can work in a pinch.
How can I tell when the preserves are ready?
The preserves are ready when the pears are tender and the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency. You can test this by placing a spoonful on a cold plate; if it holds its shape after cooling slightly, it's done.
What should I do if my preserves are too runny?
If your preserves turn out too runny, you can simmer them on the stovetop for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid. Adding a bit of cornstarch mixed with water can also help thicken it quickly without altering the flavor.
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).