Easy Beans
Easy Beans is a hearty, flavorful casserole combining crispy bacon, savory beans, and a sweet-tangy sauce, topped with crispy onion rings. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, its comforting taste and simple preparation make it a hit with bean lovers and those seeking a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the bacon until crisp in a skillet.
- Remove the bacon from the drippings and set aside.
- Saute chopped onions and grated garlic in the bacon drippings until tender.
- Remove the onions and garlic from the drippings.
- Mix all ingredients except onion rings in a casserole dish.
- Place onion rings on top of the mixture.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a touch of sweetness, consider adding chopped bell peppers or a dash of hot sauce for heat. You can substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option or use canned beans of your choice if you prefer. If you want to enhance the flavor, adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika can complement the bacon nicely.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Easy Beans as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or as a filling main dish. This recipe pairs beautifully with Barbecue Hot Dog Appetizers for a casual gathering. Consider adding a fresh salad like Broccoli-Bacon Salad to balance the richness of the beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Beans contains roughly 818 calories, with 17g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1371mg per serving (60% 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 this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of drippings. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to give it a similar flavor profile. Just ensure that the beans used are vegetarian-friendly.
What can I serve with Easy Beans?
Easy Beans pairs well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled meats, such as chicken or ribs, or as part of a potluck spread with dishes like Banker'S Casserole. It also complements cornbread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the onion rings right before baking. This will allow the flavors to meld, making for an even tastier dish when you bake it.
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).