Bob'S Calico Beans
Bob's Calico Beans is a hearty, flavorful baked bean dish with bacon, hamburger, and a sweet-savory sauce, perfect for barbecues and dipping tortilla chips. It serves a crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the lean hamburger; drain and set aside.
- Cut the bacon into 1 1/2-inch pieces; brown well and set aside.
- Brown the chopped white onion in a small amount of bacon fat.
- Mix together salt, dry mustard, cider vinegar, and ketchup.
- Combine everything in a crock-pot or slow cooker and heat for 2 to 3 hours.
- Serve hot, ideal for barbecues or dipping tortilla chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using turkey or chicken sausage instead of hamburger for a lighter version. If you want a smoky flavor, try adding a bit of smoked paprika or using smoked bacon. You can also substitute the bacon with turkey bacon for a healthier option. Adjust the sweetness by using less brown sugar or adding a splash of maple syrup for a unique taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Bob's Calico Beans hot, as a hearty main dish or as a side at your next barbecue. They pair beautifully with cornbread or coleslaw for a complete meal. Consider serving alongside tortilla chips for dipping, making it a wonderful appetizer. This dish is also great for potlucks or family gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute intervals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bob'S Calico Beans contains roughly 1179 calories, with 7g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 116g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (17% of the Daily Value) and protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1164mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match different beans based on your preference. You can use black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor and texture. Just ensure that the total bean quantity remains around 3 to 4 pounds to maintain the balance of ingredients.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make Bob's Calico Beans vegetarian, substitute the hamburger and bacon with plant-based alternatives. Use lentils or veggie crumbles in place of the meat, and consider adding smoked paprika for that savory flavor. Ensure to check that your beans are also vegetarian-friendly for a complete dish.
What can I serve with Bob's Calico Beans?
These beans are versatile and can be served alongside various dishes. Try pairing with grilled meats like barbecued pork loin roast or serve with a side of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. They also work well with cornbread or even as a filling in green pepper boats for a fun twist.
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).