Patio Beans
Patio Beans are hearty, cheesy baked beans with bacon, perfect for outdoor gatherings or family dinners, offering smoky, sweet, and savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crispy, then remove from pan and crumble.
- Saute chopped onion in the bacon grease until translucent.
- In a large casserole dish, combine baked beans, kidney beans, lima beans, brown sugar, catsup, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add the sautéed onion and crumbled bacon to the mixture.
- Top with Parmesan cheese and cubed Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the bean mixture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can be used instead of frying fresh slices. You can also substitute the Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack for a milder taste or even experiment with different bean varieties, such as black beans. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to make it your own.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Patio Beans as a hearty side dish at your next barbecue, or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal. It also goes well with cornbread or rolls. For a fun twist, serve it as a topping over baked potatoes or alongside grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with Joyce'S Chili, making for a delicious, comforting meal combination.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Patio Beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if the mixture seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Patio Beans contains roughly 751 calories, with 29g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (58% of the Daily Value), calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 956mg per serving (42% 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 Patio Beans vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using a plant-based bacon substitute or sautéing onions in olive oil. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the bean mixture. You can also serve the finished dish with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit more kick.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble Patio Beans in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. When ready to serve, just pop it in the oven, and it will be ready in 20 to 30 minutes. This makes it a great option for meal prep or potlucks.
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).