Six Bean Casserole
A hearty and flavorful bean casserole featuring a sweet and tangy sauce, crispy bacon, and a medley of beans. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a crowd-pleaser for those who enjoy classic American comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp.
- Remove bacon and drain, leaving grease in the skillet.
- Add brown sugar, dry mustard, salt, and vinegar to the skillet.
- Slice and ring the onions.
- Cook the onion mixture in the skillet for 20 minutes.
- Drain all beans except the pork and beans.
- Mix the onion mixture with the beans.
- Place the mixture in a 3-quart casserole dish.
- Crumble the cooked bacon on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider adding diced smoked sausage or bacon to the mix. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can substitute some of the brown sugar with maple syrup. For a vegetarian option, you can replace the pork and beans with a vegetarian alternative. To enhance the dish, try adding a teaspoon of chili powder for a little heat.
Serving Suggestions
This Six Bean Casserole can be served as a hearty main dish or a side dish alongside grilled meats or a fresh green salad. It pairs beautifully with Hot Ryes for a satisfying meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it with cornbread or a side of coleslaw.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a suitable container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Six Bean Casserole contains roughly 546 calories, with 8g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 985mg per serving (43% 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 dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but they will require soaking and cooking before adding them to the casserole. Aim for about 2 cups of cooked beans to replace the canned beans. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of Old Fashion Texas Hot Sauce into the bean mixture. You could also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bake it shortly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making the dish even more delicious.
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).