L.B.J. Beans
Hearty baked beans with ground beef, spicy kidney beans, and savory seasonings, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings craving bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef with garlic and onion.
- Mix the cooked ground beef with the remaining ingredients in a crock-pot.
- Cook for a minimum of 2 hours in the crock-pot, stirring frequently.
- Cook as long as 4 hours before serving if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh garlic and onions instead of powdered versions. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. To enhance spiciness, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a thicker consistency, allow the mixture to cook longer with the lid off. This dish pairs well with cornbread, similar to Quick 'N Easy Cabbage Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the L.B.J. Beans hot, garnished with chopped green onions or shredded cheese for extra flavor. For a hearty meal, pair it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. This dish also works well as a filling for burritos or tacos. Consider serving with a side of rice or cornbread to complement the flavors, making it a satisfying main course.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm the beans in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For convenience, you can also reheat in the microwave, covered, in 1-minute increments until hot. Ensure it reaches a safe temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of L.B.J. Beans contains roughly 795 calories, with 33g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (104% of the Daily Value), protein (66% of the Daily Value), and iron (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 469mg per serving (20% 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 L.B.J. Beans a day in advance. Simply cook the dish as instructed, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stove or in the crock-pot until warmed through. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
For a healthier alternative, consider using ground turkey or chicken. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as leaner meats may require slightly less time to brown. These substitutes will maintain the heartiness of the dish.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To modify the spice level, use a milder variety of kidney beans or omit the spicy hot kidney beans. You can also add more or less spicy mustard according to your taste. For a kick, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, allowing you to customize the heat.
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).