Collins Baked Beans
Collins Baked Beans combine savory pork and beans with smoky bacon, sweet brown sugar, and tangy ketchup, baked to perfection for a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until half done; remove from pan and set aside.
- Saute chopped onion and bell pepper in bacon fat until tender.
- Mix drained pork and beans, cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, brown sugar, mustard, and ketchup in a baking dish.
- Bake in a 9 x 13-inch dish at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Top with pineapple slices if using, then bake for an additional 30 minutes or more.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke or using smoked bacon. If you're short on time, canned beans can be substituted with cooked dried beans. You can also adjust the sweetness by reducing the brown sugar or using a sugar substitute. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños. This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated for optimal flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Collins Baked Beans make a hearty side dish and pair wonderfully with grilled meats, especially barbecue. Serve alongside coleslaw or cornbread for a complete meal. You can also enjoy them as a main dish topped with shredded cheese or served with a side of garlic bread. For an added treat, consider pairing with *Grammy Labar'S Macaronis* for a comforting family feast.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the baked beans to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. If the beans seem dry, add a splash of water or broth to maintain their consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Collins Baked Beans contains roughly 382 calories, with 5g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 562mg per serving (24% 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 Collins Baked Beans vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable oil to sauté the onions and bell peppers. Additionally, substitute the pork and beans with a vegetarian-friendly bean variety or use baked beans without meat.
How can I spice up the flavor of the baked beans?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or even a splash of hot sauce. You can also incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Customize to your taste preferences for a unique twist.
What can I do if the baked beans are too sweet?
If you find the baked beans too sweet, balance the flavor by adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. This acidity will cut through the sweetness. You can also reduce the amount of brown sugar next time or add more savory ingredients like mustard or Worcestershire sauce.
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).