Nellie'S Calico Beans
Nellie's Calico Beans is a hearty, flavorful baked bean dish featuring ground meat, bacon, and a sweet-savory sauce—perfect for family gatherings or casual cookouts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry ground meat, bacon, and chopped onion together until cooked, then drain excess fat.
- Add drained kidney beans, butter beans with juice, baked beans, vinegar, mustard, brown sugar, and ketchup to the meat mixture and stir well.
- Bake the mixture in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground beef mixed with ground turkey. You can also substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Make sure to drain the beans thoroughly to avoid excess liquid in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Nellie's Calico Beans are perfect for potlucks and gatherings. Serve them alongside cornbread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with American recipes like coleslaw or roasted vegetables. For a hearty dinner, consider adding grilled sausages or BBQ chicken as side options.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through, or warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nellie'S Calico Beans contains roughly 1122 calories, with 42g protein, 196g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (105% of the Daily Value), protein (84% of the Daily Value), and iron (73% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 725mg per serving (32% 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
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dish?
To adjust the sweetness, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or substitute it with maple syrup or honey. If you prefer a more savory flavor, add additional mustard and vinegar to balance out the sweetness. Taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor.
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).