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Calico Beans

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Calico Beans is a hearty, sweet and tangy dish featuring a colorful mix of beans, ground beef, and bacon simmered in a rich sauce—perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or comfort food cravings.

Ingredients

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  • 1/2 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb bacon, chopped
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can lima beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can pork and beans (do not drain)
  • 1 (15 oz) can butter beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving grease in the pan.
  2. Add ground beef and chopped onion to the skillet. Cook until beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess fat.
  3. Return cooked bacon to the pot. Add all the beans (drained except for pork and beans).
  4. Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Mix well.
  5. Simmer over low heat for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and flavors combine.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use a mix of canned beans for color and texture variety.
  • Can be made ahead and reheated—flavors deepen overnight.
  • Try ground turkey for a leaner version.
  • Serve with cornbread or over rice for a filling meal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/calico-beans/