Betty'S Tex-Mex Beans
A hearty Tex-Mex bean dish loaded with a variety of beans, smoky sausage, and bold tomatoes, perfect for satisfying comfort food with a kick, ideal for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the diced onion in a small amount of oil until tender.
- Add all the canned beans, Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chilies, crushed tomatoes, and sliced smoked sausage to the pot.
- Simmer the mixture for 1 to 1 1/2 hours to develop flavors.
- Serve hot over rice; pair with cornbread if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also substitute the smoked sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner version. If you prefer less sodium, opt for low-sodium canned beans. Stirring in some fresh cilantro before serving adds a fresh flavor. This dish is versatile and can be adapted to include other beans or vegetables you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tex-Mex beans hot over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. They pair wonderfully with cornbread, as the sweetness complements the savory beans. Consider topping with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado for added richness. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh salad or some Mexican recipes like quesadillas.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Tex-Mex beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Tex-Mex Beans contains roughly 977 calories, with 50g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (154% of the Daily Value), protein (101% of the Daily Value), and iron (88% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1506mg per serving (65% 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 dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but they will require soaking and longer cooking times. Typically, you'll need to soak them overnight and then cook them until tender before adding them to the recipe. This can enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegetarian by omitting the smoked sausage. You can add extra vegetables or use plant-based sausage for added flavor. The beans provide plenty of protein, making it a hearty vegetarian option.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, try adding spices such as cumin, chili powder, or paprika. A splash of lime juice just before serving can also brighten the flavors. You might also consider incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
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).