If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that brings together smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, then you’ve absolutely got to try this Calico Beans with Bacon and Beef Recipe. I love this recipe because it’s the perfect side for a family dinner or a potluck favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds. When I first tried it, I was amazed at how the simple ingredients come together to create such a rich and satisfying meal. Keep reading and I’ll walk you through every step so you can nail it just like I do!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, layered flavors: The combination of bacon, beef, and beans gives this dish a depth you don’t often find in simple casseroles.
- Easy to make: Few steps, pantry-friendly ingredients, and minimal prep means you’ll have dinner ready in just over an hour.
- Crowd-pleaser: I’ve served this at family gatherings and potlucks, and it always disappears quickly—everyone loves it!
- Versatile and customizable: You can tweak the sweetness, spice, or types of beans to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s great about this Calico Beans with Bacon and Beef Recipe is that the ingredients work harmoniously while being easy to find. I always recommend using fresh, quality bacon and ground beef for the best flavor, and don’t overlook the mix of beans – they add both texture and that authentic “calico” look.
- Lean ground beef: Using lean beef helps keep the dish from getting too greasy while still packing in the flavor.
- Bacon: Four slices add smokiness and depth; you can cut back if you prefer less fat.
- Diced white onion: This adds sweetness and aroma once sautéed with the meats.
- Brown sugar: It balances the savoriness with a gentle sweetness—don’t skip this!
- White vinegar: Adds a subtle tang that brightens the dish and keeps it from tasting too heavy.
- Mustard: Just a bit gives complexity and a slight zing.
- Salt: Enhances and balances all the other flavors.
- Ketchup: Brings acidity and tomato flavor for a hint of classic baked beans taste.
- Lima beans: Their creamy texture contrasts nicely with firmer beans.
- Kidney beans: These add a hearty bite and deep color.
- Pork and beans (canned, with juice): This keeps things saucy and savory with a built-in seasoning base.
Variations
One of the things I love about this recipe is how adaptable it is. I like to tweak it depending on what I have on hand or my mood. You’ll find that adjusting it to your preferences keeps it exciting and makes it your own.
- Vegetarian option: Swap the ground beef and bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms; you won’t miss the meat, and the dish still tastes amazing.
- Spicier version: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few chopped jalapeños to the mix for a kick—my family loves this on game day!
- Different beans: Feel free to experiment with black beans, pinto beans, or navy beans if you want to switch up textures.
- Slow cooker variation: I sometimes throw everything in a slow cooker in the morning on low for 6 hours if I’m busy—it turns out just as tender and flavorful.
How to Make Calico Beans with Bacon and Beef Recipe
Step 1: Sizzle the Perfect Base
Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef, bacon slices, and diced white onions all at once. Stir occasionally and brown everything until the beef is fully cooked and the bacon is crisp but not burnt—about 8 to 10 minutes. This step releases the smoky fats that will flavor the beans beautifully. Once cooked, drain off any excess grease to avoid sogginess in the beans later.
Step 2: Whisk Together Your Tangy-Sweet Sauce
While the meat is cooking, grab a medium bowl and whisk together the brown sugar, white vinegar, mustard, salt, and ketchup. This sauce is the magic—the balance between sweetness, tang, and a slight zing that turns basic beans into a dish you’ll crave. Set this aside for later mixing.
Step 3: Combine Beans and Meats in Your Baking Dish
In a large Dutch oven or an oven-safe casserole dish, spread out the drained lima beans and kidney beans, then pour in the entire can of pork and beans with its juice. Add your browned beef and bacon mixture on top, then pour the tangy sauce over everything. Stir gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are well-coated and evenly combined.
Step 4: Slow Bake for Deep Flavor
Preheat your oven to 300ºF. Cover your dish with a lid or tightly with aluminum foil if you don’t have one that fits. Bake the beans for about 45 minutes or until bubbly and heated through. This gentle baking helps the flavors to meld perfectly without drying out the beans.
Step 5: Serve It Up Warm and Enjoy!
Once out of the oven, serve your Calico Beans with Bacon and Beef Recipe warm. The aroma is fantastic, and the texture is a beautiful mix of creamy beans and crispy bits of bacon. Trust me, your family will be in love at first bite.
Pro Tips for Making Calico Beans with Bacon and Beef Recipe
- Drain off excess fat: I used to skip this, and the beans turned out greasy; now I always drain the skillet for a cleaner finish.
- Use fresh onions: Diced onions add a sweetness and texture that powdered onion just can’t replicate.
- Cover tightly when baking: Keeping moisture in prevents drying and keeps the beans tender and saucy.
- Sticky fingers alert: Let the beans rest for a few minutes before serving to thicken the sauce and make plating easier.
How to Serve Calico Beans with Bacon and Beef Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping my Calico Beans with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions—they add a pop of color and fresh brightness that complements the rich beans. A dash of black pepper or a few chili flakes on top can spice it up nicely if you like a little heat.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with classic cornbread, a crisp green salad, or even coleslaw for a Southern-inspired feast. I’m a big fan of roasted potatoes or steamed greens alongside to keep things balanced and hearty.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, try serving the beans in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets—they look charming and keep the dish warm at the table. You can also layer some cheese over the top in the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey, golden crust that’s irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying the fresh batch, I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They hold up really well for about 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so don’t hesitate to make this ahead.
Freezing
I’ve frozen Calico Beans before with great success—just portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, and it’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove or in the oven.
Reheating
To reheat, I like to warm the beans slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and bring back that fresh-from-the-oven taste. Adding a splash of water or broth helps restore some moisture if it seems too thick.
FAQs
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Can I use dried beans instead of canned for the Calico Beans with Bacon and Beef Recipe?
Yes! If you prefer dried beans, make sure to soak them overnight and cook them fully before assembling the recipe. Using canned beans simply saves time, but dried beans can add a great texture once properly prepared.
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Is it okay to omit the bacon in this recipe?
Absolutely. While bacon adds rich smokiness, you can omit it for a leaner dish or use smoked paprika to mimic that flavor. The recipe still turns out fantastic with just ground beef.
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Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Brown the meat and sauté onions first, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until bubbly and tender.
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What can I serve with Calico Beans for a complete meal?
Try pairing the beans with cornbread, a fresh salad, or grilled meats. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main with a side but also shines alongside BBQ or roasted dishes.
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How long should I bake Calico Beans with Bacon and Beef Recipe?
Baking for about 45 minutes at 300ºF is perfect to meld flavors and warm everything through without drying it out. Just make sure it’s covered to keep moisture locked in.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Calico Beans with Bacon and Beef Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s comfort food at its finest — simple ingredients transformed into a dish that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. It’s become a go-to for family dinners and gathering with friends, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy making it as much as I love sharing it. So grab your skillet and beans, and let yourself be wowed by this delicious, no-fuss recipe!
Print
Calico Beans with Bacon and Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Calico Beans recipe is a comforting and hearty dish combining lean ground beef, smoky bacon, and a medley of beans baked in a tangy-sweet sauce. It’s a perfect side or main for family dinners, offering a flavorful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Meat & Aromatics
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 4 ounces bacon (4 slices)
- 2/3 cup diced white onion
Sauce
- 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)
Beans
- 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)
Instructions
- Brown Meat and Aromatics: 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.
- Prepare the Sauce: 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.
- Combine Beans and Meat: 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.
- Add Sauce and Mix: Pour the prepared sauce over the beans and meat mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly throughout the dish.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 300ºF (about 150ºC) to ensure it is ready for baking.
- Bake the Beans: 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.
- Serve Warm: Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and serve the Calico Beans warm as a hearty side or main dish.
- Store Leftovers: 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.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, you can bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes of cooking to reduce excess liquid.
- Adding a pinch of black pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add extra depth and heat if desired.
- Ensure to drain and rinse the canned beans well to reduce sodium and improve flavor.
- This recipe can be made vegetarian by omitting the meat and bacon and substituting with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar smoky flavor.
- Serve with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
