Calico Beans

Oh, this recipe! Sort of a chili, kind of baked beans, maybe a sloppy Joe, but always completely delicious. It’s just the kind of thing to make when the weather takes a chilly turn and you’re hungry for something that really sticks to the ribs.

Calico Beans can also go by the name Cowboy Beans, probably because this meaty one-pot meal was a campfire favorite under the starry skies for generations. And if you haven’t tried it before, you’re in for quite a treat.

Making Calico Beans for 100? Calico Bean casserole for 50? Click and slide the number next to servings” on the recipe card below to adjust the ingredients to match how many you’re feeding—the recipe does the math for you, it’s that easy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Calico Beans are the perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and savory. The combination of different beans gives it a unique texture, while the bacon and ground beef add a rich, hearty flavor. It’s a versatile dish that can be a main meal or a side, and it’s easily scalable for large gatherings.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large deep skillet
• Four-quart casserole dish
• Oven

Ingredients

• ½ cup bacon, chopped
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 (15 ounce) can pork and beans
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can butter beans
• 1 (15 ounce) can lima beans, drained
• ½ cup ketchup
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• ½ cup chopped celery

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 C).
2. Place bacon and ground beef in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium-high heat until evenly brown. Drain and set aside.
3. In a four-quart casserole dish, mix together the bacon, ground beef, pork and beans, kidney beans, butter beans, lima beans, ketchup, onion, vinegar, dry mustard, and celery.
4. Cover and bake for 1 hour.

Tips for Success

• Make sure to drain beans such as kidney and lima beans to prevent excess liquid in the dish.
• Adjust the sweetness to your liking by varying the amount of brown sugar.
• For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon.

Additional Tips or Variations

You can add a bit of spice by including jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and ground beef, and add more beans or vegetables of your choice.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 350, Protein: 15g, Carbohydrates: 50g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 10g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish in advance? Yes, Calico Beans can be prepared a day ahead. Simply cover and refrigerate after baking, then reheat in the oven before serving.

How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I freeze Calico Beans? Yes, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Calico Beans are a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out for you. We’d love to hear your variations and any creative twists you add to make it your own!