Eunice Ratliff'S Calico Beans
A hearty, savory bean casserole with bacon, hamburger, and a tangy-sweet sauce, perfect for family gatherings or comfort food fans craving rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon until crisp. Remove bacon and crumble, reserving the bacon fat.
- Brown the hamburger in the bacon fat.
- Add chopped onion, ketchup, salt, mustard, cider vinegar, brown sugar, and crumbled bacon; simmer for five minutes.
- Mix baked beans, drained chickpeas, drained red kidney beans, and drained green limas together and add to the sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish or bean pot and bake for 40 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the mixture. If you want a vegetarian option, you can substitute the hamburger and bacon with plant-based alternatives. You can also experiment with different types of beans according to your preference. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Calico Beans hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or a fresh Dandelion Salad With Bacon Dressing for a balanced meal. For a complete spread, consider serving alongside grilled meats or a creamy coleslaw.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eunice Ratliff'S Calico Beans contains roughly 157 calories, with 5g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 926mg per serving (40% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Calico Beans in advance. Assemble the ingredients and let the mixture sit in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to cook, simply bake it as directed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier.
What should I do if the beans are too sweet?
If you find the beans too sweet for your taste, you can balance the flavor by adding a splash more of cider vinegar or a pinch of salt. Experiment with the acidity and saltiness to achieve your preferred taste.
Can I use different types of beans?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite beans. Black beans, pinto beans, or even white beans can work well in this recipe. Just ensure that any beans you use are fully cooked prior to adding them to the mixture.
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).