Kris' Beans
Kris' Beans is a hearty, savory dish combining beans, ham, and ground beef with a sweet and tangy sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add the diced ham, ketchup, salt, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, and the can of pork and beans to the skillet.
- Drain the liquid from the lima beans, butter beans, and kidney beans, then add them to the mixture.
- Add molasses to taste and mix everything well.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or smoked paprika. If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute half of the brown sugar with honey. For a vegetarian version, replace the hamburger and ham with lentils or black beans. Adjust the molasses according to your sweetness preference for a custom taste.
Serving Suggestions
Kris' Beans make a hearty main dish and pair well with cornbread or a simple side salad. Consider serving it alongside Fried Turnips for a delightful contrast in textures. For a complete meal, offer a light dessert, such as fruit salad, to balance the savory flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the beans in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings in a microwave-safe dish, covered loosely to prevent splatters.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kris' Beans contains roughly 689 calories, with 27g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (70% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1904mg per serving (83% 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?
Absolutely! You can substitute any canned beans you have on hand, such as black beans or pinto beans. Just ensure to drain and rinse them before adding to the mix to control the salt content in the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder for an extra kick, enhancing the flavor profile of Kris' Beans.
Is it possible to make Kris' Beans in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the hamburger and onion first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for a delicious, easy meal.
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).