Western Style Bean Casserole
A hearty Western-style bean casserole combining savory bacon, ground beef, and flavorful beans in a tangy, sweet, and smoky sauce, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. hamburger ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. bacon ⓘ
- 1 onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1 tsp. dry mustard (optional) ⓘ
- 3/4 c. brown sugar ⓘ
- 1 c. catsup
- 2 Tbsp. vinegar ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 green pepper, chopped ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic, chopped (optional) ⓘ
- 1 (15 oz.) can pork and beans
- 1 (15 oz.) can baby lima beans ⓘ
- 1 (15 1/4 oz.) can large butter beans ⓘ
- 1 (15 oz.) can dark red kidney beans ⓘ
Instructions
- Drain the last three cans of beans (pork and beans, baby lima beans, large butter beans, dark red kidney beans).
- Fry bacon until crisp; drain and break into small pieces.
- Brown hamburger, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, and chopped garlic in a skillet.
- Add salt, pepper, dry mustard (if using), Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, catsup, vinegar, cooked bacon, and the drained beans to the browned mixture.
- Mix well and transfer to a baking dish.
- Cover and bake in a 350°F oven for about 1 hour or until bubbling and heated through.
- Remove cover and bake an additional 15 minutes.
- Alternatively, prepare in a crock-pot for approximately 3 to 4 hours until thoroughly heated and bubbling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground beef with a higher fat content. You can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner option or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also use canned beans of your choice, or even try making your own baked bean dish for a personalized touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Western Style Bean Casserole with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Green Beans With Zucchini And Bacon for a hearty, comforting dinner. For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before serving or add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bean casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 2-3 minutes or until warm, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Western Style Bean Casserole contains roughly 582 calories, with 26g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2681mg per serving (117% 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 casserole?
Absolutely! You can mix and match various beans based on your preference or availability. Pinto beans, black beans, or even chickpeas can be good alternatives. Just ensure they are drained and rinsed if using canned beans to maintain the right consistency in the casserole.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Simply follow the instructions up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also use spicy sausage instead of the hamburger for a flavorful kick. Adjust the amount to your taste preference for the perfect level of spiciness.
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).