Lions Club Ranch Beans
Lions Club Ranch Beans is a hearty, smoky dish featuring tender pinto beans simmered with bacon, tomato sauce, and a blend of bold spices. Perfect for large gatherings or family dinners, its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a crowd-pleaser for casual, hearty occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the dry pinto beans in water for 4 hours or overnight.
- Drain the soaked beans and add them to a large pot.
- Add water to cover the beans and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer covered until the beans are tender, about 8 hours, adding water as necessary to keep beans covered.
- During the last hour of cooking, add the tomato sauce, canned tomatoes, onion powder, chili powder, and bacon ends.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- About an hour before serving, season with salt, pepper, and liquid smoke to taste.
- Serve hot, enjoying the rich, smoky flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker option, use canned pinto beans instead of dry; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the bacon ends and consider adding smoked paprika for a similar flavor. Adjust the spices to your taste, and remember that letting the beans sit overnight enhances their flavor. This recipe is great for potlucks, similar to Sweet 'N Sour Beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these hearty ranch beans alongside cornbread or over cooked rice for a filling meal. They pair beautifully with Summer Casserole or can be used as a delicious topping for baked potatoes. Garnish with chopped green onions or shredded cheese for added flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place the beans in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lions Club Ranch Beans contains roughly 1397 calories, with 57g protein, 348g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (484% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2436mg per serving (106% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, while pinto beans are traditional, you can substitute with black beans or kidney beans. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of beans used.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper when you add the spices. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra kick.
Is it possible to make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Soak the beans as directed, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours until the beans are tender. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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).