When Times Are Hard
A hearty casserole combining cornbread, hot dogs, beans, and savory toppings, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Prepare Jiffy cornbread mix as directed on the box.
- Pour half of the cornbread batter into the prepared pan.
- Combine all other ingredients: hot dogs, mustard, ketchup, diced onion, pork and beans, and brown sugar.
- Pour the mixture over the cornbread layer in the pan.
- Add the remaining half of the cornbread batter on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown, approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding shredded cheese on top of the cornbread layer before baking. You can substitute turkey hot dogs for a leaner option or use a different type of bean if you prefer. If you don't have Jiffy mix, you can make a simple cornbread batter from scratch using cornmeal, baking powder, milk, and eggs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm and consider pairing it with a simple green salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can also enjoy it alongside other American recipes like Barbecue Pork And Bean Bake for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of When Times Are Hard contains roughly 615 calories, with 8g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), iron (12% of the Daily Value), and potassium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1719mg per serving (75% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cornbread mix?
Yes, you can use any cornbread mix you prefer. Just follow the instructions on the package and adjust the amount if needed based on your specific mix. If you want to make it from scratch, combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, and eggs for a homemade version.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the hot dogs with vegetarian sausage or simply omit them altogether. You might also want to add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and texture while keeping it vegetarian.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, mix in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the bean and hot dog mixture. You can also sprinkle some chili powder or cayenne pepper into the cornbread batter for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level to your liking!
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).