Katie'S 3 Bean Bake
A hearty, flavorful baked bean casserole combining bacon, ground beef, and sweet-savory sauce, perfect for family dinners or comfort food gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger and chopped onion in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Fry bacon until crispy, drain, and chop into fine pieces.
- Combine all ingredients including cooked meat, bacon, beans, catsup, brown sugar, dry mustard, vinegar, and molasses in a covered 9x13-inch pan.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or garlic to enhance the flavor profile. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey for the hamburger. Adjust the sweetness by using less brown sugar or substituting with maple syrup. This dish can also work well with different beans, so feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty 3 Bean Bake alongside a fresh green salad or cornbread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Nash'S Jalapeno "Oilfield" Cornbread for a spicy kick. You can also top it with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Katie'S 3 Bean Bake contains roughly 1689 calories, with 38g protein, 332g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (110% of the Daily Value), iron (101% of the Daily Value), and potassium (81% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1061mg 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the 3 Bean Bake a day in advance. Simply assemble the ingredients in the pan and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you want to omit bacon, consider using smoked paprika or liquid smoke to add a similar smoky flavor. Alternatively, turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon substitute can work well, depending on your dietary preferences. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed.
Can I freeze the 3 Bean Bake?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. After cooking, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
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).