Campfire Beans
Hearty and flavorful campfire beans combining ground beef, bacon, and beans in a sweet and tangy sauce, perfect for outdoor gatherings and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet; drain well.
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl or directly in the crock-pot.
- Transfer the mixture to a crock-pot and slow cook on low for several hours.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use plant-based bacon. You can also experiment with different beans like black beans or pinto beans for variety. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This dish pairs well with cornbread or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Campfire Beans hot, garnished with chopped green onions or shredded cheese for added flavor. This hearty dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh coleslaw or grilled vegetables. It’s also a great summer potluck dish that complements barbecue favorites.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, or warm it up on the stovetop over low heat. If the mixture thickens, add a splash of water or broth to achieve the desired consistency. Campfire Beans also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Campfire Beans contains roughly 1049 calories, with 19g protein, 171g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (55% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 510mg per serving (22% 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?
Yes, you can definitely mix and match different types of beans based on your preference. Black beans or pinto beans can be great substitutes for the kidney or butter beans. Just make sure to drain and rinse canned beans to reduce sodium content and improve flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat to your Campfire Beans, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, chili powder, or cayenne pepper into the mix. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side, allowing each person to adjust the spice level to their taste.
Is it possible to make this dish in the oven instead of a crock-pot?
Absolutely! You can make Campfire Beans in the oven by combining all the ingredients in a large casserole dish and baking it at 350°F (175°C) for about 1-1.5 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a fantastic alternative to the crock-pot preparation.
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).