Lillie'S Baked Beans
Lillie's Baked Beans are a hearty, smoky side dish packed with a variety of beans, sweet peppers, and bacon, perfect for large gatherings or family barbecues.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the kidney beans, pintos, Great Northern beans, white limas, navy beans, barbecue sauce, mustard, ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, chopped onion, and diced red and green peppers in a large bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a 5-quart Dutch oven.
- Lay the slices of bacon on top of the bean mixture.
- Bake at 450°F (232°C) until the bacon is done and the beans are heated through, about 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a touch of liquid smoke or using smoked bacon. You can substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a different sweetness profile. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix. Remember to drain and rinse the beans to reduce sodium content.
Serving Suggestions
These baked beans are perfect for backyard barbecues and pair beautifully with Glazed Boston Shoulder or grilled meats. Serve alongside cornbread or a fresh Make-Ahead Lettuce Salad (Makes 8 To 10 Servings) for a complete meal. Enjoy as a hearty side dish or a filling main course on a cozy night.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the beans seem too thick. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lillie'S Baked Beans contains roughly 278 calories, with 8g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 Lillie's Baked Beans ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bean mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add the bacon before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for a richer taste.
What kind of beans can I use for this recipe?
You can use any combination of beans you like! If you're missing some of the specific types, feel free to substitute with other canned beans such as black beans or cannellini. Just ensure they're similar in texture and flavor.
How do I know when the beans are done baking?
The beans are done when the bacon on top is crispy and the mixture is bubbling. If you're unsure, a quick taste test will let you know if everything is heated through and to your liking.
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).