Connie'S 5 Bean Casserole
A hearty, flavorful five-bean casserole with savory ground beef, bacon, and a sweet tangy sauce, perfect for family dinners and potlucks. Rich, comforting, and easy to customize.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, bacon, and chopped onion in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Add brown sugar, salt, vinegar, dry mustard, and catsup to the meat mixture; stir well.
- Add one can each of lima beans, butter beans, chili beans, kidney beans, and pork and beans, including their juice.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake uncovered at 350°F for 1 hour, or alternatively, simmer in a crock-pot for 3 to 3.5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for ground beef. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can save you a step. This casserole can also be made vegetarian by replacing the meat with additional beans or lentils.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Beef Vegetable Pie for a filling dinner. For a complete experience, consider offering some pickles or coleslaw on the side to add a crunchy texture.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Connie'S 5 Bean Casserole contains roughly 2055 calories, with 63g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 147g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (132% of the Daily Value), protein (127% of the Daily Value), and iron (87% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2847mg per serving (124% 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 casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite beans. Just ensure you keep the total volume the same to maintain the consistency of the casserole. Black beans or pinto beans would work well as substitutes.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when baked.
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).