Three-Bean Baked Beans
I got this recipe from an aunt and made a couple of changes to suit our tastes. With ground beef and bacon mixed in, these satisfying beans are a big hit at backyard barbecues and church picnics. I'm always asked to bring my special beans.
I got this recipe from an aunt and made a couple of changes to suit our tastes. With ground beef and bacon mixed in, these satisfying beans are a big hit at backyard barbecues and church picnics. I'm always asked to bring my special beans.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 can (16 ounces) kidney beans rinsed and drained
- 1 can (16 ounces) butter beans rinsed and drained
- 5 bacon strips diced
- 2 cans (16 ounces each) pork and beans undrained
- Carbohydrate 12.8774828527925 g
- Cholesterol 20.78511715 mg
- Fat 8.34923979654938 g
- Fiber 0.353781797791759 g
- Protein 5.26808877970093 g
- Saturated Fat 2.87788342674584 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (66g)
- Sodium 1398.49861171158 mg
- Sugar 12.5237010550008 g
- Trans Fat 1.0052891829061 g
- Calories 147 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- In a large skillet, cook and crumble beef with bacon and onion over medium heat until beef is no longer pink; drain.
- Stir in sugars, ketchup, barbecue sauce, molasses, mustard, chili powder and salt until blended.
- Stir in beans.
- Transfer to a greased 2-1/2-qt. baking dish.
- Bake, covered, until beans reach desired thickness, about 1 hour.
- Freeze option: Freeze cooled bean mixture in freezer containers. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Heat through in a saucepan, stirring occasionally and adding a little water if necessary.
My Famous Three-Bean Baked Beans: A Backyard Barbecue Staple
As a busy mom of three, I'm always looking for recipes that are both delicious and easy to make. This Three-Bean Baked Beans recipe fits the bill perfectly. It's a family favorite, a crowd-pleaser at every potluck, and honestly, the easiest thing to transport and serve. I learned the basics from my Aunt Mildred years ago, but over time, I’ve tweaked it to suit our family's palate. The result? A hearty, flavorful dish that's always a hit.
What makes these beans so special? It’s the combination of textures and tastes, I think. The savory ground beef and crispy bacon add a delightful richness, complementing the sweetness of the brown sugar and molasses. The tangy barbecue sauce and mustard provide a zesty counterpoint, while the chili powder adds a subtle kick. And of course, the three types of beans – kidney, butter, and pork and beans – provide a wonderful variety of textures and flavors.
I’ve made this recipe countless times, from casual family dinners to large-scale gatherings. It’s surprisingly versatile. You can adjust the amount of chili powder to control the spiciness, or add other vegetables like diced bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition. I've even experimented with different types of beans, and the results are always delicious.
This recipe is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or any occasion where you want to bring a crowd-pleasing dish. It's also great for meal prepping. I often double the recipe and freeze half for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, heat through on the stovetop, and you've got a delicious, home-cooked meal in minutes.
Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this recipe holds a special place in my heart. It's a connection to my aunt, a reminder of family gatherings, and a tradition I'm happy to pass on to my children. The aroma alone fills the kitchen with warmth and nostalgia, transporting me back to simpler times. And when I see the happy faces of my family and friends enjoying this dish, it makes all the effort worthwhile.
So, if you're looking for a simple yet impressive recipe that's sure to be a hit, give my Three-Bean Baked Beans a try. You won't be disappointed! And who knows, it might just become a family favorite for you, too. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do!
Tips for Success:
- Use good quality bacon for the best flavor.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of beans or add other vegetables.
- For a richer flavor, cook the ground beef and bacon in a cast iron skillet.
- If you're freezing the beans, let them cool completely before storing them in freezer-safe containers.
- When reheating frozen beans, add a little water if necessary to prevent them from drying out.
