Calico Beans - Old Settlers Beans
Old Settlers Beans, a hearty and flavorful casserole featuring a medley of beans, bacon, and ground meat, perfect for family gatherings and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain all the canned beans and save the bean liquid; use if necessary during baking.
- Brown the bacon, ground meat, and chopped onion; drain off any excess fat.
- Mix together brown sugar, catsup, and vinegar or dry mustard to create the sauce.
- Combine all ingredients in a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes or at 325°F for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce. You can substitute the ground meat with turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use meatless ground meat and add extra beans for protein. Adjust the sweetness by varying the brown sugar according to your taste. This dish also pairs well with a side of cornbread.
Serving Suggestions
Calico Beans are best enjoyed hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or green onions. They make a hearty side dish at barbecues or potlucks and pair wonderfully with cornbread or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a protein like grilled chicken or ribs. They are a comforting addition to any spread, reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calico Beans - Old Settlers Beans contains roughly 1218 calories, with 44g protein, 209g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (128% of the Daily Value), iron (90% of the Daily Value), and protein (88% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1517mg per serving (66% 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! Feel free to mix and match with your favorite beans. Black beans or navy beans can be excellent substitutes. Just ensure they are drained and rinsed before adding to maintain the texture of the dish.
How can I make Calico Beans spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the mix. You can also serve with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Calico Beans a day in advance. Simply combine all the ingredients in the casserole dish and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).