Country Beans
A hearty, comforting bean casserole with rich flavors of beef, smoky barbecue, and sweet brown sugar, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Drain all cans of beans.
- Chop the onion and green pepper.
- Mix all ingredients, including beef, beans, vegetables, ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and mushroom pieces, in a crock-pot.
- Simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground turkey. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with lentils or a meat alternative. For added heat, include jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce. If you have leftover vegetables, such as corn or carrots, feel free to toss them in for extra nutrition. This dish is perfect when served alongside cornbread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or shredded cheese for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or over rice for a filling meal. You could also offer a side salad for a refreshing contrast. For a fun twist, try serving it in a baked potato or as a topping for nachos. This is a great way to enjoy American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave in a covered dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating. This dish freezes well too, lasting up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Beans contains roughly 1998 calories, with 33g protein, 204g carbohydrates, and 120g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), protein (65% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1210mg per serving (53% 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?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite beans according to your taste. Black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas can be great alternatives. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time if you're using dried beans instead of canned ones.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, include diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce when mixing the ingredients. You can also stir in some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the mix. Adjust the amount to your preference for spiciness.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep! You can prepare all the ingredients and mix them in the crock-pot the night before. Just refrigerate overnight and set the crock-pot in the morning to cook. This makes it easy to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.
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).