Pepperoni Beans
A hearty, flavorful bean dish with spicy pepperoni, green peppers, and onions, perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners craving bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a Dutch oven over low heat.
- Cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Alternatively, transfer to a crock-pot and cook all day.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the diced onion and green pepper in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the Dutch oven. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of jalapenos or hot sauce. You can substitute turkey pepperoni for a leaner option or use any beans you have on hand, such as pinto or black beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pepperoni Beans hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color. They pair beautifully with cornbread or a side of steamed rice. For a complete meal, consider serving with a simple salad, like the Winter Turkey Salad, to balance the richness of the beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covered, until hot. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepperoni Beans contains roughly 867 calories, with 57g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (203% of the Daily Value), protein (114% of the Daily Value), and iron (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 740mg 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
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, to make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the pepperoni or replace it with a meat alternative such as tempeh or vegetarian sausage. You can also enhance the flavor with additional spices or smoked paprika.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, you can reduce the amount of hot sauce or jalapenos in the recipe. Alternatively, add more for a spicier kick. Consider serving with a side of sour cream to help balance the heat.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans. Soak and cook them beforehand until tender, then add them to the mixture. Keep in mind that cooking times will vary, so plan accordingly.
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).