Calico Beans with Bacon is a comforting dish that combines a medley of beans with smoky bacon and savory ground beef, all baked in a tangy-sweet sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering a delightful balance of flavors that everyone will enjoy. With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that warms the heart and fills the belly. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Calico Beans with Bacon

This Calico Beans with Bacon recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and packed with nutrients. Here are several reasons to love it:

Combines savory flavors from bacon and lean ground beef.
Loaded with fiber from a variety of beans, making it filling.
Perfect as a Calico Beans casserole for family gatherings.
Can be made ahead of time for easy meal prep.
Easily customizable with different beans or spices for a spicy Calico Beans with bacon version.
Serves well as a hearty side dish or flavorful main course.

Ingredients for Calico Beans with Bacon

Gather these items:

1 pound lean ground beef
4 ounces bacon (4 slices)
2/3 cup diced white onion
1/2 cup brown sugar (100 grams)
2 tablespoons white vinegar (31 grams)
1 tablespoon mustard (15 grams)
1 teaspoon salt (5 grams)
1/2 cup ketchup (4 ounces)
15 ounces lima beans (1 can, drained)
15.5 ounces kidney beans (1 can, rinsed and drained)
28 ounces pork and beans with juice (1 can)

How to Make Calico Beans with Bacon Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, bacon, and diced onion together until the meat is fully browned and the bacon is cooked through. Stir frequently to break up the beef evenly. Drain off any excess fat to prevent greasiness.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, white vinegar, mustard, salt, and ketchup until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set this sauce aside for later use.
Step 3: In a large Dutch oven or an oven-safe casserole dish, layer the drained lima beans, rinsed kidney beans, and the entire can of pork and beans with juice. Then add the browned beef and bacon mixture on top.
Step 4: Pour the prepared sauce over the beans and meat mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly throughout the dish.
Step 5: Set your oven to 300ºF (about 150ºC) to ensure it is ready for baking.
Step 6: Cover the casserole with a lid or tightly with aluminum foil if a lid is not available. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the mixture is heated through and bubbling around the edges.
Step 7: Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and serve the Calico Beans with Bacon warm as a hearty side or main dish.
Step 8: Transfer any leftover beans into an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to 4 days, allowing for easy reheating and enjoying later.

Pro Tips for the Best Calico Beans with Bacon

Keep these in mind:

Great as a side or main dish for family dinners.
Can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.
For a vegetarian option, consider using a vegetarian Calico Beans alternative by substituting bacon and beef with plant-based proteins.
Experiment with different types of beans for unique flavors.

Best Ways to Serve Calico Beans with Bacon

This dish is versatile and pairs well with:

Crusty bread or cornbread for a delightful meal.
Grilled meats or BBQ for a complete feast.
Served as a Calico Beans side dish at potlucks or family gatherings.

How to Store and Reheat Calico Beans with Bacon

To store, transfer any leftover beans into an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through, making it easy for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Calico Beans with Bacon

What are Calico Beans?

Calico Beans are a hearty combination of different types of beans, often mixed with meat, spices, and sweet sauces. This dish is known for its comforting flavors and versatility.

Why Use Bacon in Calico Beans?

Bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish, making it more savory and satisfying. The combination of bacon and beans creates a delightful culinary experience.

Can I make Calico Beans with Bacon ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it before serving for a delicious meal without the last-minute cooking.

Variations of Calico Beans with Bacon You Can Try

Feel free to explore these variations:

Swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add jalapeños for a spicy twist in your spicy Calico Beans with bacon recipe.
Use a mix of black beans and pinto beans for different textures and flavors.
For a vegetarian twist, create a vegetarian Calico Beans alternative using plant-based bacon and proteins.

Calico Beans with Bacon: A Hearty Family Favorite - Calico Beans with Bacon - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making chocolate oatmeal bars for dessert!

Calico Beans with Bacon: A Hearty Family Favorite - Calico Beans with Bacon - additional detail

For more information on the health benefits of beans, you can visit Healthline.