Jimmy Dean'S Calico Beans
Jimmy Dean's Calico Beans is a hearty, flavorful casserole featuring a savory mix of sausage, hamburger, beans, and a sweet-tangy sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, its rich taste and comforting texture make it a crowd-pleaser for those who enjoy classic American baked beans with a twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage, hamburger, chopped onion, and celery in a skillet.
- Drain off the fat from the cooked meat mixture.
- Add remaining ingredients to the meat mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a crock-pot and cook on high for 4 to 5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using spicy sausage or a mix of meats, such as turkey sausage. If you'd like a vegetarian version, substitute the meats with plant-based crumbles and add extra beans. Adjust the sweetness by reducing the brown sugar or using honey as a substitute. This dish works well with a variety of beans, so feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jimmy Dean's Calico Beans with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Pair it with a simple salad or coleslaw for added crunch and freshness. This dish also complements flavors found in American recipes, making it a great centerpiece for a potluck or family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the calico beans in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jimmy Dean'S Calico Beans contains roughly 1158 calories, with 27g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (70% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and iron (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1060mg per serving (46% 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?
Yes! This recipe is quite flexible. You can substitute any of the beans with your preferred varieties, such as black beans or pinto beans. Just ensure they are undrained if using canned beans to maintain the right consistency.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a kick to your calico beans, mix in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. You could also opt for spicy sausage instead of the regular variety, which will give the dish a nice heat without overpowering the other flavors.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just combine all ingredients in the crock-pot and cook when you're ready. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
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).