Bestemore'S Baked Beans
A hearty baked beans dish with savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and sweet undertones from brown sugar and ketchup, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Fry the bacon until crispy.
- Drain excess fat from the beef and bacon.
- Combine all ingredients including beans, mushroom, dry mustard, ketchup, and brown sugar in a baking dish.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) until thoroughly heated, about 1 hour.
- Alternatively, heat in a crock-pot for 4 hours or longer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or extra mushrooms. Brown sugar can be replaced with maple syrup for a different sweetness. Ensure to drain your beans well to prevent a watery consistency.
Serving Suggestions
These baked beans pair beautifully with grilled meats or BBQ dishes, making them a perfect side for summer cookouts. You could also serve them alongside cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For a twist, try them as a hearty topping for baked potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, or place in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through. For longer storage, consider freezing in portions, which can last up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bestemore'S Baked Beans contains roughly 4 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 beans for this recipe?
Yes, canned beans are a great time-saver. Just rinse and drain them well before adding them to the mixture. This will help reduce the sodium content and ensure the beans don’t make the dish too watery.
What if I don't have dry mustard?
If you don't have dry mustard, you can substitute with Dijon mustard or yellow mustard. Use about one tablespoon of the prepared mustard for each teaspoon of dry mustard required in the recipe.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven or a crock-pot until heated through.
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).