Two Bean Franks
A hearty, flavorful bean and frankfurter casserole with tender vegetables and comforting beans, perfect for quick family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 3-quart casserole, combine onion, celery, and garlic; cover with lid.
- Microwave on High for 3 minutes or until vegetables are tender, stirring once during cooking.
- Stir in remaining ingredients.
- Cover and microwave on High for 10 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
- Stir twice during cooking.
- Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, try adding spices like smoked paprika or cumin to enhance the dish's depth. If you're out of frankfurters, substitute with turkey or veggie dogs. For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium beans. Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as bell peppers or corn to add color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Two Bean Franks with a side of cornbread or a fresh salad, like Best Broccoli Salad, for a balanced meal. You can also top with shredded cheese or chopped green onions for extra flavor. This dish is perfect for casual gatherings or as a hearty weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Two Bean Franks contains roughly 1522 calories, with 13g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 140g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 545mg per serving (24% 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 different types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans based on your preference. Just ensure they are drained and rinsed to remove excess sodium. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to suit your taste.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this a vegetarian dish by omitting the frankfurters and using plant-based sausage alternatives. Additionally, ensure that the pork and beans you choose are vegetarian-friendly or replace them with vegetarian baked beans for a delicious outcome.
What can I do if I don't have a microwave?
If you don't have a microwave, you can prepare this dish on the stovetop. Sauté the onion, celery, and garlic in a large pot until tender, then add the remaining ingredients and heat over medium until hot and bubbly, stirring occasionally.
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).