Calico Beans By Linda And Chuck
A hearty, savory baked bean dish with ground beef, bacon, and sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry ground beef in a skillet until cooked through, then drain excess fat.
- Fry bacon slices until crispy, then drain and cut into pieces.
- In a 2 1/2 or 3-quart casserole, add cooked ground beef, bacon, drained kidney beans, drained butter beans, pork and beans, diced onion, brown sugar, and catsup.
- Mix all ingredients well.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- After baking, stir once before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some minced garlic or smoked paprika to the mixture. If you're out of bacon, diced ham or pancetta can serve as a substitute. For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use plant-based bacon alternatives. Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the dish by varying the amount of brown sugar based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Calico beans make a hearty main dish and pair beautifully with cornbread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For a complete feast, serve alongside Robby'S Dip and tortilla chips as an appetizer. This dish is also great for potlucks and gatherings, as it feeds a crowd and can be easily transported.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover calico beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calico Beans By Linda And Chuck contains roughly 988 calories, with 18g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1699mg per serving (74% 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 different types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match different beans based on your preference or what you have on hand. Black beans or pinto beans can be good alternatives, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary slightly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper along with the Tabasco sauce. You can also use a spicier chili sauce to enhance the overall flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Is it possible to cook this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and bacon beforehand, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a deliciously easy meal.
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).