Nell'S Five Bean Casserole
Nell's Five Bean Casserole is a hearty, savory dish combining bacon or hamburger with a sweet and tangy bean mixture, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb bacon or hamburger ⓘ
- 2 medium onions, diced ⓘ
- 1/2 cup brown sugar ⓘ
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1 can pork and beans (soup can size) ⓘ
- 1 can kidney beans, drained ⓘ
- 1 can lima beans, drained ⓘ
- 1 can butter beans, drained
- 1 can butter beans, drained ⓘ
Instructions
- Brown the meat and onions in a skillet.
- Add brown sugar, vinegar, garlic salt, dry mustard, and salt; simmer for 20 minutes.
- Drain all beans except the pork and beans; stir them into the meat mixture.
- Place in the oven and heat until well warmed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of hamburger. You can also replace the brown sugar with maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with mushrooms and use vegetable broth to enhance the flavor. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This dish can be similar to other hearty casseroles like Secret Ingredient Chili, so feel free to experiment with spices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this flavorful casserole with a side of cornbread or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Make Ahead Hamburger for a hearty feast. You can top it with shredded cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, as it serves a crowd and is sure to please.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, ensuring they are heated evenly. This casserole can also freeze well; just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nell'S Five Bean Casserole contains roughly 1733 calories, with 40g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 122g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (122% of the Daily Value), protein (79% of the Daily Value), and iron (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2396mg per serving (104% 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 use different types of beans in this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite beans. Black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas can work well in this recipe. Just ensure that you drain and rinse canned beans to reduce sodium content and enhance the flavor of the dish.
What can I serve with the Five Bean Casserole?
This casserole is quite filling on its own, but it pairs well with simple sides like steamed vegetables or a light coleslaw. For a heartier option, try serving it with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes. This creates a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes, this casserole is great for making ahead of time. You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you're ready to heat it up. This is perfect for busy days or when hosting gatherings.
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).