Calico Bean Casserole

Introduce your family to the vibrancy of South American Antioquia cuisine with Calico Bean Casserole.

This hearty, inexpensive casserole combines ground beef, kidney beans, lima beans, and butter beans in a delicious sauce topped with bacon.

It’s tasty, nutritious, and simple to make!

The mix of beans and ground beef provides a hearty, protein-filled meal.

The bacon topping adds a delicious smoky flavor.

Scroll to bottom for printable recipe card.

Why I love Calico Bean Casserole

• It’s an easy, one-pan dish.
• It has a rich, flavorful sauce that adds great depth to the dish.

How do you thicken calico beans?

• Add a few tablespoons of flour to the mixture before baking.
• Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans and mix them back into the casserole.

What is the best way to store leftover calico bean casserole?

• Leftover calico bean casserole can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Why are my beans not creamy?

• Try reducing the amount of liquid or adding more beans or flour to thicken the sauce.
• You can also try cooking it a little longer to help evaporate some of the liquid.

Why are my baked beans so runny?

• The beans may not have cooked long enough, or you might need to reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe.
• If you are cooking at a high altitude, add an extra 10 minutes of cooking time. You could also try reducing the amount of liquid or adding more beans or flour to thicken the sauce.

Can you overcook baked beans?

• Yes, it is possible to overcook baked beans. Be sure to check the recipe instructions and monitor the cooking time closely. If you notice that the beans are getting too soft, you can reduce the heat and cook them for a shorter period of time.

What happens if you don’t soak beans before cooking?

• If you don’t soak beans before cooking, they will take longer and may not soften completely.
• Soaking beans helps to remove some of the starches and sugars that can cause gas and other digestive issues. Soaking also helps to soften the beans so they cook faster and more evenly.

How to serve Calico Bean Casserole?

• Calico Bean Casserole is a great dish to serve as part of a family dinner or potluck.
• Serve it with a side of your favorite vegetables, such as steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts

Cooking Tips:

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Add extra vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms.
• Use low-sugar ketchup to cut down on sweetness.

Variations:

• Add in diced tomatoes for more flavor.
• Replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.

Ingredients:

• Bacon
• Lean ground beef
• Pork and beans
• Kidney beans
• Butter beans
• Lima beans
• Ketchup
• Brown sugar
• Onion
• White wine vinegar
• Mustard powder
• Celery

How to make Calico Bean Casserole:

Step 1. Preheat the oven to about 350 degrees F (175 C).

Step 2. In a large, wide skillet, add the bacon and ground beef. Stir constantly and cook over medium-high heat until golden brown. Once ready, remove from heat and reserve.

Step 3. In a four-quart casserole plate, add the following ingredients bit by bit: onion, vinegar, dry mustard, celery, bacon, ground beef, pork and beans, kidney beans, and lima beans.

Step 4. If you wish, you can mix all the ingredients or place the casserole in the oven with the ingredients still loose. Cook for an hour.

Step 5. Take out of the oven and serve in a deep dish or in one of your preferences. 

Step 6. Your Calico Bean Casserole is ready to enjoy!

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How to store Calico Bean Casserole?

• Calico Bean Casserole can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Alternatively, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. 

How to reheat Calico Bean Casserole?

• To reheat Calico Bean Casserole, simply transfer it into a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

How long does Calico Bean Casserole last in the fridge?

• Calico Bean Casserole will last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. 

Can I make Calico Bean Casserole ahead of time?

• Yes, you can make Calico Bean Casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

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