Southwestern Baked Beans
A hearty and flavorful baked beans dish with bacon, enchilada sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners with a southwestern twist.
Ingredients
- 8 slices bacon ⓘ
- 1 can pork and beans (28 oz.) ⓘ
- 1 can chili beans (15 1/2 oz.), undrained ⓘ
- 3/4 cup finely chopped onion ⓘ
- 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar ⓘ
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (8 oz.) ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons chili powder ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin ⓘ
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except cheese in a bowl.
- Mix gently until well combined.
- Transfer mixture to a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 475°F (246°C) for 15 minutes.
- Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top.
- Bake for 15 minutes longer until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, try using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. You can substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for an extra kick. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar or use a sugar alternative. Adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference, and consider adding diced jalapeños for an additional layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Southwestern Baked Beans are a hearty side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or cornbread. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh salad or coleslaw. They also make a great main dish when served with rice or quinoa. For a fun twist, consider topping them with sour cream or avocado slices for added creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Southwestern Baked Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the beans in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave them in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through for even heating. If the beans seem dry, add a splash of water or broth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwestern Baked Beans contains roughly 507 calories, with 18g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (203% of the Daily Value), calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 893mg per serving (39% 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 the bean mixture the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble everything in the casserole dish and bake it when you're ready to serve. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon and replace it with smoked paprika or a plant-based bacon alternative to maintain that smoky flavor. Alternatively, diced ham or turkey can also be used for a similar taste profile.
Can I freeze the baked beans?
Yes, you can freeze Southwestern Baked Beans. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or in the oven until heated through.
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).