Mom Gordon'S Five Bean Bake
A hearty, savory baked bean casserole with smoky bacon, tender beans, and sweet ketchup glaze, perfect for family dinners and comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all beans in a large casserole dish.
- Brown ground beef and one chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add the cooked beef and onion mixture to the casserole.
- Chop the other onion raw and add to the casserole.
- Mix ketchup, brown sugar, water, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the casserole and mix well.
- Cover the casserole with bacon strips.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or chili powder to the bean mixture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked ground beef. Substituting turkey or chicken for ground beef will lighten the dish while still providing good flavor. You might also try using different beans like black beans or pinto beans for a unique twist. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add more vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or a simple green salad to balance the richness. You can also serve it with a side of rice or baked potatoes for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider topping it with shredded cheese or sliced green onions. It’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, complementing other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a covered casserole dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes until warmed evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom Gordon'S Five Bean Bake contains roughly 1393 calories, with 28g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (89% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and iron (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 655mg per serving (28% 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 casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you're ready to bake, simply remove the cover and follow the baking instructions. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier!
What can I use instead of bacon strips?
If you're looking for a substitute for bacon, consider using turkey bacon or pancetta for a similar flavor. Alternatively, you can skip the bacon altogether and sprinkle some smoked paprika or liquid smoke into the sauce to achieve that smoky taste without the meat.
Can I freeze the five bean bake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe dish. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven until warmed through.
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).