Rio Grande Beans
A hearty and flavorful meatball and bean dish featuring tender beef, savory spices, melted cheese, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix thoroughly beef, bread crumbs, egg, salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon chili powder.
- Shape the mixture firmly into 16 meatballs.
- In an 8-inch skillet, brown the meatballs and pour off the fat.
- Add chopped onions and remaining chili powder. Cover and cook over low heat for 20 minutes or until done.
- Add the pork and beans with tomato sauce and heat, stirring occasionally.
- Garnish with slices of cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding minced garlic or diced bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oatmeal can work as a substitute. You can also use ground turkey for a leaner option. Adjust the chili powder to your preferred spice level and try adding some diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Rio Grande Beans with a side of cornbread or over fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh salad or Zesty Potato Salad makes a great accompaniment. For a heartier meal, consider pairing with Baked Bean And Ham Casserole. This dish also works well for meal prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rio Grande Beans contains roughly 1310 calories, with 24g protein, 195g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (50% of the Daily Value), protein (49% of the Daily Value), and calcium (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 freeze the meatballs before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with the recipe as directed.
What can I substitute for pork and beans?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute pork and beans with kidney beans or black beans mixed with tomato sauce. This will give you a different taste while still maintaining the dish's hearty essence.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level of Rio Grande Beans is adjustable based on your preference. With 2 teaspoons of chili powder, it has a mild kick. For more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
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).