Kelly Beans
Kelly Beans is a hearty, flavorful bean casserole combining smoked sausage, hamburger, and a variety of beans with a sweet and tangy glaze. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it offers a smoky, savory profile with a hint of heat from jalapeno beans, appealing to comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and chopped bell pepper.
- Brown hamburger meat and smoked sausage.
- Put all ingredients into a crock-pot.
- Add all beans, brown sugar, ketchup, garlic salt, and cooked vegetables.
- Simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, try incorporating some smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to enhance the heat. If pinto beans aren't available, you can substitute with black beans or kidney beans. For a vegetarian option, replace the smoked sausage and hamburger meat with plant-based alternatives. Consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra umami.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice to soak up the flavors. It pairs beautifully with No-Fuss Baked Beans for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. This dish also makes great game day food for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish until heated through. If the mixture thickens, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kelly Beans contains roughly 1229 calories, with 14g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 88g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value) and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 765mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dry beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dry beans, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. This adds an extra step, but it allows for a fresher taste. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as dry beans will take longer to become tender.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the spice level, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You could also mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce at the end of cooking for a bit of heat.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
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).