(Five) Bean Barbecue
A hearty three-bean barbecue casserole with smoky bacon, tangy sauce, and cheesy topping, perfect for family gatherings and comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the chopped onion in diced bacon until translucent and fragrant.
- Drain off the excess fat from the bacon and onion mixture.
- Make a sauce by combining brown sugar, catsup, Worcestershire sauce, and the diced bacon and onion mixture.
- Drain the lima beans, green beans, wax beans, kidney beans, and pork and beans.
- Mix the drained beans with the diced Cheddar cheese.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the bean and cheese mixture and stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 1/2 hours until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using turkey bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce. You can substitute the bacon with diced ham or even smoked sausage for a different taste. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more brown sugar or a splash of maple syrup. Adjust the type of beans based on your preference; black beans or pinto beans work well too.
Serving Suggestions
This Five Bean Barbecue pairs wonderfully with cornbread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled meats, as it complements flavors beautifully. It also makes a hearty side dish for gatherings or barbecues, fitting nicely into a spread with American recipes like Barbecued Pork And Beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of (Five) Bean Barbecue contains roughly 191 calories, with 9g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and calcium (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 523mg per serving (23% 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 a plant-based alternative. Replace the Worcestershire sauce with a vegetarian version or soy sauce. The dish will still be flavorful with the combination of beans and the sweet sauce.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, you can thin it by adding a little water or vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well to ensure it mixes evenly with the beans. Adjust the seasoning as needed after adding liquid.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bean mixture and sauce ahead of time. Assemble everything in the casserole dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to help it cook evenly.
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).