Smokey Beans
Smokey Beans offers a hearty, smoky flavor with tender beans and seasoned ground beef, perfect for comfort food lovers and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet.
- Cook until the onion and garlic are tender.
- Add the drained pork and beans, kidney beans, and butter beans.
- Stir in catsup, brown sugar, and liquid smoke.
- Simmer until heated through or transfer to oven and bake for 30 to 45 minutes at 300°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked paprika alongside the liquid smoke. You can also substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. If you prefer a touch of heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For a vegetarian version, replace the hamburger with lentils or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of liquid smoke.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Smokey Beans with cornbread or over steamed rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Bootleg Beans for a delicious potluck spread. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. A side salad can also complement the richness of the beans nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; simply thaw and reheat before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smokey Beans contains roughly 1119 calories, with 28g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (82% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and iron (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1394mg per serving (61% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Smokey Beans a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the simmering step, then refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, reheat on the stove or bake in the oven until warmed through. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I substitute for liquid smoke?
If you don't have liquid smoke, you can achieve a smoky flavor by adding smoked paprika or using chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. These alternatives will provide a similar depth and richness to the dish without compromising on taste.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of Smokey Beans, simply omit the hamburger and substitute it with cooked lentils or crumbled tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor and include extra spices to enhance the taste.
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).