Calico Beans with Ground Beef and Bacon Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that packs a punch of flavor, you’re going to love this Calico Beans with Ground Beef and Bacon Recipe. It’s one of those classic meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. When I first tried this recipe, I was blown away by the rich mix of smoky bacon, savory beef, and sweet-tangy sauce. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through how to make it effortlessly delicious every single time.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Calico Beans with Ground Beef and Bacon Recipe plays an important role — from the richness of the bacon and beef to the sweetness of brown sugar balancing the tang of vinegar and mustard. Here are a few shopping tips so you know what to look for.

• Lean Ground Beef: Choose 90% lean or higher to avoid too much grease but keep the beef juicy and flavorful.
• Bacon: Four slices add that smoky depth I just can’t live without—thick-cut works great here.
• Diced White Onion: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and texture; fresh is best.
• Brown Sugar: Opt for dark brown sugar if you want a deeper molasses flavor that amps up the sauce.
• White Vinegar: This little tang punch brightens everything—it’s a game-changer in bean dishes.
• Mustard: Adds complexity and a gentle kick; I usually keep yellow mustard on hand for this.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out flavors—start with a teaspoon then adjust as needed.
• Ketchup: This gives the sauce body and sweetness; go for your favorite brand or homemade.
• Lima Beans: Drained from the can, these tender beans contribute creaminess to the dish.
• Kidney Beans: Rinse and drain them well; their hearty texture rounds out the bean mix perfectly.
• Pork and Beans: Use the whole can with juice for that classic homestyle touch and extra sauciness.

Variations

I like to think of this Calico Beans with Ground Beef and Bacon Recipe as a versatile canvas — feel free to make it your own! Here are some ways I’ve customized it over the years to keep it fresh and exciting.

• Spicy Twist: Adding a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce gives it a great kick—my family loves turning up the heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the ground beef and bacon, and use smoked paprika for that smoky flavor; try adding sautéed mushrooms for bite.
• Slow Cooker Version: I sometimes toss everything into the slow cooker for a no-fuss, all-day simmer that makes the flavors sing.
• Bean Variety: Swap in black beans or pinto beans if you want to experiment with textures and flavors.

How to Make Calico Beans with Ground Beef and Bacon Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef, Bacon, and Onion

Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, chopped bacon, and diced onion. Cook everything together, stirring frequently, until the beef is nicely browned, the bacon is crispy, and the onions turn translucent and fragrant. This step builds the flavor foundation, so don’t rush it! Once cooked, drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, white vinegar, mustard, salt, and ketchup. Whisk until smooth and well incorporated. This sweet-and-tangy sauce is what ties the whole dish together — I’ve found that whisking it separate first helps it blend evenly throughout the beans and meat.

Step 3: Mix Beans and Meat in Your Baking Dish

Grab a large Dutch oven or oven-safe casserole dish. Add the drained lima beans, rinsed kidney beans, and the entire can of pork and beans — juice included! Then stir in the beef and bacon mixture, followed by the sauce. Mix everything gently but thoroughly so all those flavors get cozy together.

Step 4: Bake Low and Slow

Preheat your oven to 300ºF (about 150ºC). Cover the dish tightly — either with a fitted lid or aluminum foil if your casserole doesn’t have one — and bake for 45 minutes. You’ll want to look for bubbling and heated-through beans. Slow baking helps the flavors meld beautifully without drying the dish out.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool just slightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm and pairs nicely with a simple green salad or crusty bread. Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days (I’ll share tips on storage later).

How to Serve Calico Beans with Ground Beef and Bacon Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top just before serving — it adds a lovely fresh note and a pop of color. A dash of hot sauce or a spoonful of sour cream also takes it to the next level depending on your mood!

Side Dishes

This is a full meal in itself, but I love pairing it with simple green beans, cornbread, or a crisp side salad. For extra comfort, some creamy mashed potatoes or roasted veggies work beautifully, too.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this recipe in mini cast iron skillets for individual portions — it’s charming and makes everyone feel like they’re getting something special. Using colorful serving bowls or layering it over rice for a chili-style presentation are fun, cozy options, too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I like to let leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep nicely for about four days — sometimes, they taste even better the next day because the flavors have had more time to meld.

Freezing

This Calico Beans with Ground Beef and Bacon Recipe freezes beautifully. Just pack cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags. When you want to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop or in the oven.

Reheating

I recommend reheating leftovers gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If needed, add a splash of water or broth to keep the beans moist and prevent drying out. Microwave works in a pinch but can sometimes dry the edges.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Calico Beans with Ground Beef and Bacon Recipe brings everyone to the table with full bellies and big smiles. It’s one of those dishes that warms your heart as much as your stomach. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making meal prep easy for the week ahead, this recipe never fails me. Give it a try — I think you’ll find it as satisfying and comforting as I do.

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