Kris' Calico Beans
Kris' Calico Beans offer a hearty, sweet, and savory baked bean dish with bacon, ground beef, and a tangy sauce, perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef and bacon together until browned.
- Drain off excess fat, saving a few tablespoons to put in the mixture.
- Mix together the ground beef, bacon, baked beans, red kidney beans, butter or lima beans, brown sugar, catsup, vinegar, and dry mustard.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or diced onions to the mixture. If you're looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can substitute for beef. You can also use any type of beans you prefer, such as pinto beans in place of red kidney beans. Remember to taste the mix before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Kris' Calico Beans are a hearty main dish that pairs well with cornbread or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it alongside coleslaw for a nice crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of potato salad or baked potatoes. This dish complements other American recipes beautifully, making it a great choice for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover calico beans can be stored 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 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. You can also reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kris' Calico Beans contains roughly 733 calories, with 18g protein, 149g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 981mg per serving (43% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the calico beans a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it's heated through.
Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Allow the calico beans to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave before serving.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you prefer not to use bacon, you can substitute it with diced turkey bacon or just increase the amount of ground beef. For a vegetarian option, consider using smoked tempeh or mushrooms to impart a similar flavor profile.
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).