Block Party Beans
Block Party Beans is a hearty, flavorful casserole blending ground beef, mixed beans, and savory tomato-based sauces. Its rich, sweet, and smoky flavors make it perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, offering a comforting dish that combines classic baked bean tastes with a meaty twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onions and celery to the beef and cook until tender.
- Stir in tomato soup, tomato paste, and catsup, then simmer for 20 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a large kettle.
- Drain green beans, lima beans, and wax beans before adding.
- Add the drained beans, chili beans, and pork and beans (undrained) to the kettle.
- Mix well and heat through before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also use fresh green beans instead of canned for added crunch. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar, or replace it with maple syrup for a different flavor profile. If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Block Party Beans hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. They pair wonderfully with cornbread or over a bed of rice, making for a hearty meal. For a complete spread, consider adding a side salad or some coleslaw to balance the flavors. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Block Party Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the beans in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a microwave-safe dish, covering it to prevent splattering, for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Block Party Beans contains roughly 1114 calories, with 21g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (74% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 714mg per serving (31% 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 beans?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. This will require more preparation time, as dried beans take longer to cook. Make sure to season them well to enhance the flavor of your dish.
What if I want a vegetarian version?
For a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat. You can add additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture, making it a satisfying option without the meat.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat to your Block Party Beans, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce. You can also use spicy chili beans instead of regular ones to kick up the spice level in the dish.
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).