Grandma'S Calico Beans
Grandma's Calico Beans is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring a savory blend of beans, bacon, and seasonings, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and bacon in a skillet.
- Add chopped onion and cook slightly until translucent.
- Add remaining ingredients: catsup, salt, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, kidney beans, lima beans, and pork and beans.
- Drain some liquid off if necessary.
- Cook the mixture at 350°F for 40 minutes or in a crock-pot for desired time.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground turkey instead of hamburger or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. You can also substitute maple syrup for brown sugar for a unique twist. If you prefer a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This recipe is versatile and can easily accommodate different beans based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma's Calico Beans over a bed of rice or with freshly baked cornbread for a hearty meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. For an even more filling option, consider serving alongside Myra's Baked Beans or a simple vegetable medley.
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 low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water if the beans seem dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Calico Beans contains roughly 859 calories, with 39g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (85% of the Daily Value), protein (78% of the Daily Value), and iron (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2753mg per serving (120% 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 recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the hamburger and bacon, and using additional beans like black beans or chickpeas. For added flavor, sauté the onions in olive oil and use vegetable broth in place of any meat-based ingredients.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dish?
If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of brown sugar to 1/2 cup or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup. Taste the mixture before baking to adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake it at 350°F for about 40 minutes or until heated through. This can enhance the flavors as they meld together overnight.
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).