Missouri Beans
A hearty, smoky baked bean dish featuring ground beef, bacon, and a sweet-savory sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the bacon and cook it with the onion and ground beef until browned.
- Place the cooked mixture in a casserole dish and add the baked beans, kidney beans, and butter beans.
- Add the brown sugar, white sugar, catsup, barbecue sauce, prepared mustard, and molasses to the casserole.
- Drain some of the liquid from the beans to make the casserole thicker if desired.
- Bake the casserole uncovered at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. You can substitute ground turkey for the beef for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Additionally, feel free to mix in other canned beans like black beans or pinto beans to customize the dish. This casserole is reminiscent of American recipes that celebrate hearty flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Missouri Beans hot, garnished with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh touch. This dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. You could also enjoy it alongside classic sides like coleslaw or potato salad, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. It's hearty enough to stand alone or be a part of a potluck spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or in a covered casserole dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Missouri Beans contains roughly 764 calories, with 18g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and potassium (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 712mg per serving (31% 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make Missouri Beans vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and bacon. Substitute with plant-based meat alternatives or extra beans for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of meat drippings to enhance the flavor, and it will still be a hearty and satisfying dish.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dish?
If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the amount of brown and white sugar by half or substitute with a sugar alternative like stevia or erythritol. You can also balance the sweetness by adding more savory ingredients like diced bell peppers or a splash of vinegar.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to eat, simply remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
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).