Crockpot of Calico Beans

Ingredients:

1 pound lean 93% ground beef

½ pound bacon, diced

1 large onion, small-diced

1 15-ounce can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 15-ounce can butter beans, drained and rinsed

2 16-ounce cans pork and beans, undrained

½ cup brown sugar

½ cup ketchup

¼ cup barbecue sauce

1 teaspoon seasoned salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

Step 1:

In a large cast iron skillet, brown the ground beef and bacon over medium-high heat, stirring frequently for about 10-12 minutes.

The beef should be completely done and the bacon should have rendered most of its fat while cooking.

Step 2:

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the meat mixture to the bottom of a 6-quart (8 quart is fine too) slow cooker.

Try to drain almost all of the fat before moving the meat to the slow cooker.

If you sauteed the meat directly in the crockpot, use a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 3:

Add the diced onion, drained kidney beans, drained butter beans, and the 2 cans of pork and beans with all of their juices.

Step 4:

Stir in the brown sugar, ketchup, barbecue sauce, salt, pepper and vinegar.

Cook on HIGH for 4 hours (or LOW for 8), and stir before tasting for seasoning.

Serve with cornbread or biscuits.

Notes:

Choosing Meat:

Opt for lean ground beef (93% lean) to keep the dish less greasy.

If using a higher fat content, you might need to drain more fat after cooking.

Bacon Preparation:

Dice the bacon into small pieces for even rendering.

Bacon adds a smoky flavor and richness, so use good-quality bacon for the best results.

Bean Variety:

If you prefer, you can substitute other types of beans.

For example, pinto beans or black beans can be used in place of kidney or butter beans, though they will alter the flavor and texture slightly.

Onion Size:

Dice the onion small to ensure it cooks down and blends well with the other ingredients.

If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can sauté the onion separately until translucent before adding it to the slow cooker.

Pork and Beans:

The pork and beans provide a flavorful base with their sauce, so avoid draining them.

If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a low-sugar barbecue sauce.

Adjusting Sweetness and Tanginess:

Taste the dish before serving and adjust the sweetness or tanginess if needed.

You can add a bit more brown sugar or vinegar according to your taste preferences.

Cooking Time:

Cooking times can vary based on your slow cooker.

If using LOW, you might need to cook for 6-8 hours.

The beans should be tender, and the flavors well blended.

Thickening the Sauce:

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let the beans cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce the liquid, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to thicken the sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

This dish pairs well with cornbread or biscuits, as mentioned.

It can also be served over rice or alongside a simple green salad.

Storage:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.

Just make sure to cook them thoroughly and drain any excess fat before adding to the slow cooker.

Is it necessary to cook the bacon and ground beef before adding them to the slow cooker?

Yes, it’s important to cook the bacon and ground beef beforehand to render the fat and develop flavor.

This step also helps avoid greasy beans.

What can I use if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?

You can substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar, red wine vinegar, or even lemon juice if needed.

Can I use fresh beans instead of canned beans?

You can use fresh beans, but they need to be cooked separately before adding them to the slow cooker, as fresh beans may not cook thoroughly in the slow cooker in the time specified.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance.

Just cook it as directed and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

How do I adjust the recipe for a smaller slow cooker?

If you’re using a smaller slow cooker, you may need to cut the recipe in half or cook it in batches to fit.

Make sure not to overfill the slow cooker.

Can I freeze the Calico Beans?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag.

It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What type of barbecue sauce works best for this recipe?

Any barbecue sauce you prefer will work, but a tangy or slightly sweet sauce complements the flavors of the beans and meat.

Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Just chop them finely and add them along with the other ingredients.

You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

To add some heat, you can mix in a teaspoon of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to taste.

Add these at the same time as the other seasonings.