Lorraine'S Calico Beans
Lorraine's Calico Beans is a hearty, flavorful baked bean dish with bacon, hamburger, and a sweet-tangy sauce, perfect for family gatherings and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry together the bacon, hamburger, and onions.
- Add the remaining ingredients.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger to make it lighter. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, try using a Tofu Hamburger in place of meat, and adjust the seasoning accordingly to enhance flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lorraine's Calico Beans alongside cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. They also pair beautifully with Ma'S Green Beans for a hearty, comforting dinner. For a casual gathering, consider offering this dish as a side at a barbecue or picnic, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Calico Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, or warm in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lorraine'S Calico Beans contains roughly 786 calories, with 32g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (64% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2759mg per serving (120% 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 dish 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 directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through.
What can I substitute for the beans?
If you don't have lima, kidney, or pork and beans on hand, you can substitute with other canned beans such as black beans or pinto beans. Just ensure you drain and rinse them to keep the flavors balanced and avoid excess sodium.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of Calico Beans, replace the bacon and hamburger with plant-based alternatives like a Tofu Hamburger or sautéed mushrooms for depth. Use vegetarian-friendly beans and ensure the ketchup and mustard are free from animal products.
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).