Calico Bean Hot Dish
A hearty and flavorful baked bean casserole featuring savory hamburger, crispy bacon, and sweet, tangy sauce—perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Rich and comforting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute hamburger, bacon, and onion until lightly browned.
- Drain only a small amount of liquid from the beans.
- Thoroughly mix all ingredients together.
- Bake, uncovered, at 300°F for 1 1/2 hours or at 350°F for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. If you're short on time, ground turkey or chicken can substitute for hamburger. Additionally, you can replace the pork and beans with a different variety of beans for a unique twist. Make sure to drain excess liquid from the beans to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs well with cornbread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. It also complements grilled meats, making it a great side for summer barbecues. For a comforting twist, serve alongside The Best Bean Casserole for a delightful potluck offering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil, warming it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calico Bean Hot Dish contains roughly 702 calories, with 35g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (89% of the Daily Value), protein (69% of the Daily Value), and iron (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1830mg per serving (80% 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 make Calico Bean Hot Dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it shortly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to adjust the baking time as needed if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, feel free to incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or even diced tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onion for even cooking, making it a heartier dish that aligns with American recipes.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Certainly! You can replace the hamburger and bacon with plant-based alternatives such as crumbled tempeh or lentils. Use vegetable broth and add more beans for protein, maintaining the same flavor profile while making it suitable for vegetarians.
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).