Tri-Bean Bake
A hearty and flavorful baked bean dish featuring crispy bacon, tender green beans, and a sweet chili sauce glaze, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, fry bacon and onion until bacon is crisp; drain off fat.
- Stir in remaining ingredients.
- Turn into a 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or using smoked bacon. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the bacon with diced mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of the bacon fat. You can also replace the chili sauce with barbecue sauce for a sweeter profile. Adjust the brown sugar based on your taste preference to balance the acidity of the beans.
Serving Suggestions
Tri-Bean Bake is a hearty dish that pairs beautifully with cornbread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled meats or as a side at a barbecue. For a comforting twist, try it with a side of Aunt Sally Sampson's Baked Beans for extra flavor and variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Tri-Bean Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tri-Bean Bake contains roughly 1859 calories, with 11g protein, 155g carbohydrates, and 135g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 730mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite flexible. You can substitute any canned beans you have on hand, such as black beans or kidney beans, for the pork and Ranch Style beans. Just be sure to drain and rinse them to reduce sodium content and enhance the flavors.
Is it possible to make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Tri-Bean Bake a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up until baking, cover the casserole, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, bake it directly from the refrigerator, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the casserole. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level to your preference for a delightful twist on this classic dish.
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).