Western Style Beans
A hearty Western-style beans dish with savory pork, bacon, and smoky flavors, perfect for casual family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground chuck with chopped green pepper and small onion.
- Mix the cooked meat mixture with chili sauce, catsup, and pork and beans.
- Fry some of the bacon and mix it into the bean mixture.
- Lay the rest of the uncooked bacon on top of the mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake in a 13 x 9-inch pan at 350°F for about an hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smokier flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or using smoked bacon. If you don't have chili sauce, a mix of ketchup, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce can work well as a substitute. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter dish. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms and add some extra spices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Western Style Beans alongside cornbread or over baked potatoes for a hearty meal. They also pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a balanced plate. For a more substantial meal, consider offering them with grilled sausages or as part of a barbecue spread with other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Western Style Beans contains roughly 664 calories, with 10g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1035mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
* % 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 a day in advance. Simply follow the steps up to the baking stage, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, let it come to room temperature before baking, or adjust the baking time as necessary if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for ground chuck?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, try crumbled tempeh or lentils, seasoned to your liking, to maintain a hearty texture without meat.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The chili sauce typically adds mild heat, but you can add more hot sauce or diced jalapeños if you like it spicier. Conversely, use a milder chili sauce for a gentler flavor.
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).