Calico Bean Pot
A hearty baked bean dish combining crispy bacon, ground beef, and a sweet-savory sauce with ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar. Perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners, it offers rich flavors and comforting warmth in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon pieces until crisp, then remove from pan.
- In 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease, sauté the ground beef and chopped onion until the onion is tender and the meat is browned.
- Add the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, and salt to the meat mixture, and mix well.
- Add the pork and beans, kidney beans, and lima beans to the mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a 3-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding some diced bell peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. If you're out of bacon, turkey bacon or smoked sausage can work as substitutes. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based ground meat and omit the bacon, while increasing the seasoning to enhance flavor. This dish also makes a great filling for 'You Name It' Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty Calico Bean Pot pairs wonderfully with cornbread or a simple green salad to balance the richness. For a complete meal, serve it alongside rice or baked potatoes. Feel free to top with shredded cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor. It’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, just like many classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months; just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calico Bean Pot contains roughly 302 calories, with 14g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 830mg per serving (36% 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 other types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the lima beans with any beans of your choice, such as black beans or pinto beans. Just keep in mind that different beans may alter the texture and taste slightly, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and omit the bacon. You may also want to add extra spices or vegetables to enhance the flavor, making it just as hearty and satisfying.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bean mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, just transfer it to a casserole dish and pop it in the oven. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even tastier when served.
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).