"Luv-Em" Beans

Prep: 15 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

Luv-Em Beans is a hearty, sweet and savory baked bean dish with bacon, onions, and a flavorful brown sugar and vinegar sauce, perfect for family gatherings or comfort food lovers.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. hamburger
  • 1/2 cup chopped onions
  • 1 (1 lb.) can white kidney beans
  • 1 (1 lb.) can red kidney beans
  • 1 extra large can baked pea beans
  • 1/2 lb. bacon
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Cook hamburger, onions, and bacon; drain.
  2. Mix all ingredients in a large shallow pan (broiler pan or casserole).
  3. Cover and bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using ground turkey instead of hamburger or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer a spicier kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce. You can also substitute the white sugar with maple syrup for a unique twist. Make sure to drain the beans well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the 'Luv-Em' Beans alongside cornbread or a fresh green salad for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with American recipes like Old-Fashioned Green Beans And Potatoes. For added crunch, top with crispy fried onions just before serving, or offer your guests a side of tangy pickles to complement the dish.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil, warming in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of "Luv-Em" Beans contains roughly 513 calories, with 8g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

513 kcal 26% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.8g 16% DV
Total Fat 9.9g 13% DV
Carbs 100.7g 37% DV
Fiber 3.8g 14% DV
Sugar 80g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 396.6mg 17% DV
Potassium 377.4mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 10.2mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 0.8mg 1% DV
Calcium 94.2mg 7% DV
Iron 2.2mg 12% DV
Diet fit Low-fat

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 in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite beans. Great alternatives include pinto beans or black beans. Just ensure you maintain the total quantity of beans so that the texture and flavor remain balanced.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the hamburger and bacon with plant-based alternatives like lentils or tempeh, and use vegetable broth for added flavor. You can also enhance the dish with extra vegetables to maintain its hearty nature.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge.

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).

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