Judy Carlton'S Hobo Beans
Judy Carlton's Hobo Beans is a hearty, comforting dish packed with a rich tomato-based sauce and an assortment of beans. Its sweet and tangy flavors make it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying meal that combines savory, smoky, and slightly sweet notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the hamburger, chopped onions, chopped celery, tomato paste, tomato soup, catsup, prepared mustard, and brown sugar in a large pot.
- Simmer the mixture for 20 minutes.
- Add the canned green beans, yellow beans, kidney beans, lima beans, and pinto beans to the pot.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, cover, and bake at 325°F for 1 hour.
- Uncover and bake for an additional hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier version, consider adding cooked bacon or sausage to the mix. You can also substitute turkey for hamburger for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. Adjust the sugar content based on your taste; some may prefer less sweetness. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hobo Beans alongside cornbread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They also pair beautifully with Twice Baked Potato for a comforting dinner. Offer toppings like shredded cheese or diced green onions to enhance the flavor. This dish is great for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Hobo Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply transfer to a pot and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Judy Carlton'S Hobo Beans contains roughly 604 calories, with 25g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (86% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and protein (50% of the Daily Value). 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 use fresh beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh beans, but they will require soaking and cooking beforehand. Canned beans save time and offer convenience, making this recipe quicker to prepare. If using fresh beans, ensure they are tender before adding them to the pot, as cooking times will vary.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make Hobo Beans vegetarian, simply replace the hamburger with cooked lentils or a meat substitute. Ensure that all canned ingredients are also vegetarian-friendly. This will still provide a hearty and satisfying meal without meat, perfect for a vegetarian-friendly gathering.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dish?
You can adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of brown sugar or using alternatives like maple syrup or honey. Taste the mixture before baking and add more sweetener if needed. If you prefer a less sweet flavor, feel free to reduce the sugar and balance it with additional spices.
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).