Full Meal Beans
A hearty, savory bean casserole layered with bacon, cheddar, and a sweet-tangy sauce, perfect for family gatherings or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the chopped onion until translucent.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork and beans, lima beans, and kidney beans, ensuring all are the same size.
- Add the sauteed onion, brown sugar, and catsup to the bean mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with shredded sharp Cheddar cheese.
- Lay slices of bacon over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the bean mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the bacon with diced bell peppers or mushrooms. Ensure the beans are drained and rinsed to remove excess sodium. This dish pairs well with a side of Caraway Skillet Slaw for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for added color. It pairs excellently with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. For an all-in-one experience, consider serving it alongside Hamburger Casserole(Quick And Easy; Boys Love It!) for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, baking at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Full Meal Beans contains roughly 747 calories, with 19g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (60% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 474mg per serving (21% 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 recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix and match with your favorite beans, like black beans or pinto beans, depending on your taste preference. Just keep the total amount the same to ensure the texture and flavor balance remains consistent.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, try mixing in diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the bean mixture. You could also serve with hot sauce on the side, allowing guests to adjust the spiciness to their liking.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Simply assemble the ingredients in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven, and adjust the baking time as needed.
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).