Calico Beans

Why You’ll Love This Calico Beans

• Hearty and satisfying, perfect for family gatherings.
• Sweet and tangy flavor profile that everyone will adore.
• Easy to prepare, making it a go-to weeknight meal.
• Loaded with protein and fiber from the beans and beef.
• Customizable with your favorite beans or spices!

Ingredients

Get ready to make a delicious batch of Calico Beans with these simple ingredients!

• 1 pound ground beef – flavorful protein base
• 4 slices thick-cut bacon – adds a savory smoky flavor
• 1 medium white onion – diced for sweetness and depth
• ½ cup brown sugar – brings a touch of sweetness
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar – adds tanginess
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard – for a hint of zest
• 1 teaspoon salt – to enhance flavors
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – for a slight kick
• ½ cup ketchup – a rich, tomatoey base
• 15 oz can butter beans – creamy texture
• 15 oz can kidney beans – hearty addition
• 30 oz can baked beans – with juices for extra flavor
• Optional garnish: sliced green onion – fresh finish

How to Make Calico Beans

Get ready to enjoy a delightful dish of Calico Beans! This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to cook, making it a perfect choice for a cozy gathering.

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

Step 2: Brown Ground Beef

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

Step 3: Cook Bacon

Cook the bacon in the same skillet until crispy. Remove it, chop it into small pieces, and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Onion

Add the diced onion to the skillet with the rendered bacon fat. Cook over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Transfer the cooked beef, bacon, and onions to a 9×13 baking dish. Stir in brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard, salt, pepper, and ketchup until well combined.

Step 6: Add Beans

Add the butter beans, kidney beans, and pork and beans to the dish. Gently mix everything together, ensuring all the beans are evenly coated in the sauce.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven, uncovered, for 1 hour or until the sauce is thickened and bubbling around the edges.

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot and garnish with sliced green onion if desired. Enjoy your delicious Calico Beans!

Recipe Snapshot

Pro Tips for Making Calico Beans

• For a smoky flavor, try using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
• Let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking to thicken the sauce.
• Experiment with different beans for varied textures and flavors.
• Serve with cornbread for a comforting meal.
• Top with shredded cheese for an extra layer of deliciousness.

How to Serve this Calico Beans

• Serve with cornbread for a comforting meal.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced plate.
• Top with shredded cheese for extra flavor.
• Enjoy with tortilla chips for a fun twist.
• Garnish with sliced green onions for a pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

You can prepare and store Calico Beans for later enjoyment:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the beans to cool completely.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Calico Beans

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Calico Beans

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Ensure it’s heated through before serving.

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Final Thoughts

Calico Beans is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table! With its hearty blend of flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. So gather your loved ones, whip up this easy casserole, and enjoy the deliciousness together. Trust me, every bite will remind you of home!