Mom'S Three Bean Casserole
A hearty and flavorful three bean casserole with bacon, hamburger, and a tangy sweet-sour sauce, perfect for family dinners and potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon separately until crispy and drain the grease.
- Cook hamburger with chopped onion until browned and cooked through.
- Combine all ingredients, including cooked bacon, hamburger, beans, brown sugar, vinegar, ketchup, salt, and mustard in a crock-pot.
- Cook on low for a few hours until flavors meld and casserole is heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting pinto beans for the kidney beans or using turkey bacon for a lighter option. If you prefer a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also use canned beans for convenience; just rinse and drain them well to reduce sodium. This casserole is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, similar to Joycelle'S Poor Man'S Filet Mignon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side of cornbread or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Zeta'S Vegetable Soup for a comforting dinner. For an extra kick, offer hot sauce or pickled jalapeños on the side. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Three Bean Casserole contains roughly 580 calories, with 17g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1144mg per serving (50% 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 casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the hamburger and bacon. Substitute with plant-based crumbles or extra beans for protein. You may also want to adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavor without meat, ensuring a delicious vegetarian dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced green chilies or spicy sausage instead of the hamburger. You can also stir in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during cooking. For a more subtle spice, top the casserole with sliced jalapeños before serving.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just combine all the ingredients, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to cook, simply place it in the crock-pot and let it cook on low. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights.
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).