Get ready to transform your dinner table with a mouthwatering dish that's about to become your new obsession! Betty Licks Calico Beans is not just another bean recipe - it's a flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing sensation that combines sweet, tangy, and savory notes in one irresistible dish. Whether you're looking for a hearty side or a satisfying vegetarian main course, these beans will have everyone asking for seconds (and begging for the recipe)!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 70 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can kidney beans
- 1 can black beans
- 1 can pinto beans
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 can of kidney beans, 1 can of black beans, 1 can of pinto beans, 1 cup of diced onion, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of mustard, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the beans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans. Make sure to drain and rinse the canned beans under cold water to remove excess sodium and improve flavor.
- Add the diced onion to the bowl with the beans. The onion will add a nice crunch and flavor to the dish.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined to create a sweet and tangy sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the bean and onion mixture, ensuring that everything is evenly coated. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently stir the ingredients together.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 2-quart baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture while baking.
- Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. This will allow the top to caramelize and develop a nice crust.
- Once the beans are cooked and bubbling, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Calico Beans warm as a side dish or a main vegetarian option, and enjoy with your favorite bread or cornbread!
Tips
- Always drain and rinse canned beans thoroughly to reduce sodium and improve overall taste and texture.
- For extra depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onions before mixing them into the bean mixture.
- Use fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to the mustard and ketchup, to ensure the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Don't skip the caramelization step - removing the foil in the last 30 minutes creates a delicious crispy top layer.
- This recipe is incredibly versatile - feel free to add crispy bacon bits or diced bell peppers for additional texture and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and often taste even better the next day as flavors continue to meld.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
