When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the richness and heartiness of a classic calico beans recipe. This savory, satisfying dish is a fan favorite at family gatherings, potlucks, and barbecues. Packed with different types of beans, tender ground beef, crispy bacon, and a sweet and tangy sauce, calico beans is a one-pot meal that’s as filling as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just looking for a simple dinner, this recipe is sure to please.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making the perfect calico beans. From understanding the ingredients to learning cooking techniques and exploring different variations of the dish, you’ll learn how to make the ultimate calico beans recipe from start to finish.
What Are Calico Beans?
Before diving into the recipe, let’s first explore what calico beans are. This traditional American dish is typically made with a variety of beans, including kidney beans, navy beans, and pork and beans, combined with savory ingredients like ground beef, bacon, and onions. The beans are cooked in a tangy, sweet sauce made from ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar. The result is a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect as a main course or a side dish.
Though similar to cowboy beans, calico beans have their own distinct flavor profile. Cowboy beans tend to have a simpler combination of beans and ingredients, while calico beans feature a more complex mix of beans and a richer, sweeter sauce. The use of bacon and ground beef makes calico beans extra hearty, and it’s this combination that makes them a favorite comfort food.
The Origin of Calico Beans
Calico beans have roots in midwestern American cuisine, where hearty, filling meals were essential for sustaining energy throughout the day. The dish became especially popular in the 1950s and 1960s, during a time when one-pot meals were a household staple due to their ease of preparation and affordability. While it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact origin of calico beans, it’s clear that this dish has been passed down through generations, with many families adding their own unique twists to the recipe.
Ingredients for the Perfect Calico Beans Recipe
A successful calico beans recipe relies on the balance of flavors from the different ingredients. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef: Ground beef forms the savory base of the dish. It’s best to use lean ground beef, but you can opt for fattier cuts for extra richness if desired.
- 1/2 lb bacon: Bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor and crunch to the beans. Thick-cut bacon is recommended, as it will hold up better during cooking.
- 1 large onion: Onions provide sweetness and depth to the dish. Yellow onions work best, but you can use white or red onions for a different flavor profile.
- 2 cans of kidney beans (15 oz each), drained and rinsed: Kidney beans are one of the most common beans used in calico beans. They add a hearty texture and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- 1 can of navy beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed: Navy beans are small, tender beans that complement the kidney beans well.
- 1 can of pork and beans (15 oz), undrained: Pork and beans provide the sweetness and tanginess that define the flavor of calico beans. The liquid from the pork and beans also helps create the sauce.
- 1 cup ketchup: The ketchup adds a sweet, tangy element that brings all the flavors together.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brown sugar balances the acidity from the ketchup and vinegar, creating a slightly sweet undertone to the dish.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: The acidity from the vinegar cuts through the sweetness and provides balance to the overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon mustard: Mustard adds a slight tang and sharpness to the dish, helping to cut through the richness of the bacon and beef.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: This sauce adds complexity and depth to the flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste.
- Optional ingredients:
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (chopped): For added color and a slight crunch.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds depth and a subtle smokiness.
Optional Garnishes
While calico beans are delicious on their own, adding some garnishes can enhance both the presentation and flavor. Consider these options:
- Freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a burst of color and freshness.
- A sprinkle of shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) for added richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Calico Beans
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s walk through the process of preparing this delicious dish.
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef and Bacon
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon to the skillet and cook until it becomes crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside. Don’t discard the bacon fat—you’ll need it to sauté the onions and ground beef.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula as it browns. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, which should take about 8 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions to the leftover bacon fat. Sauté the onions over medium heat until they soften and become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The onions will absorb some of the smoky bacon flavor, adding richness to the dish.
Step 3: Combine the Beans
While the beef and onions are cooking, drain and rinse the kidney beans and navy beans in a colander. Leave the pork and beans undrained, as the liquid from the can helps form the sauce for the calico beans.
Transfer the kidney beans, navy beans, and pork and beans into a large pot or slow cooker. You want a vessel that can hold all the ingredients and allow them to simmer together.
Step 4: Add the Sauces and Seasonings
Once the beef and onions are ready, add them to the pot with the beans. Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and any additional seasonings such as salt, pepper, or smoked paprika. Mix everything together until the beans and meat are evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Simmer the Beans
At this stage, you can cook the calico beans either on the stovetop or in a slow cooker:
- Stovetop method: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. Let the beans simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the sauce thickens and all the flavors meld together.
- Slow cooker method: If you prefer a hands-off approach, transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours. The slow cooker method allows the flavors to deepen and intensify.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once the beans have thickened and the flavors have melded together, crumble the crispy bacon into the mixture and stir it in. This final step adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to the dish.
Serve the calico beans hot with your choice of garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or shredded cheese. This dish is hearty enough to be a main course, but it also works wonderfully as a side dish for grilled meats, cornbread, or roasted vegetables.
Variations on the Classic Calico Beans Recipe
Calico beans are a versatile dish, and there are several ways to customize the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few popular variations:
Vegetarian Calico Beans
To make a vegetarian version of calico beans, simply replace the ground beef and bacon with plant-based alternatives. You can use:
- Plant-based ground beef: There are several great plant-based ground meat alternatives available today, such as Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger, that mimic the texture and flavor of ground beef.
- Vegetarian bacon: If you like the smoky flavor of bacon, you can use a vegetarian bacon substitute, or add a few drops of liquid smoke to the dish for that signature smoky flavor.
Spicy Calico Beans
If you like a little heat, you can spice up your calico beans with the following additions:
- Jalapeños: Add finely chopped fresh jalapeños to the dish for a spicy kick.
- Hot sauce: Stir in a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce (Tabasco, Sriracha, etc.) while cooking.
- Chili powder or cayenne pepper: These spices will add warmth and depth to your beans.
Slow Cooker Calico Beans
For an even easier version of calico beans, make them in the slow cooker! The slow cooker helps meld the flavors together and ensures a tender texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Add all of the ingredients (beans, meat, onions, sauces) directly into the slow cooker.
- Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Once the beans are tender and the sauce is thick, crumble in the cooked bacon and stir to combine.
Calico Beans with Ground Turkey
For a lighter, leaner option, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey. This will result in a slightly milder flavor, but you can enhance the dish with more spices or herbs like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or cumin to boost the flavor.
How to Thicken Calico Beans
Sometimes, after cooking, the calico beans can turn out a little too soupy or thin. To avoid this, you can try a few simple tricks to thicken the beans:
- Simmer uncovered: If your beans are too watery, continue to cook them uncovered on the stovetop. This will help the sauce reduce and thicken naturally.
- Mash some beans: Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash some of the beans directly in the pot. This will help create a thicker consistency.
- Cornstarch slurry: If you’re in a hurry, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the beans. Continue to cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
How to Store and Reheat Calico Beans
Storing Calico Beans
If you happen to have leftovers (lucky you!), calico beans store well in the refrigerator. Here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerator: Allow the beans to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: You can also freeze calico beans for longer storage. Place the cooled beans in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Calico Beans
To reheat your calico beans:
- Stovetop: Heat them over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Add a splash of water or broth if the beans have thickened too much.
- Microwave: Place the beans in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Calico beans are not only tasty but also packed with nutritional value. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in terms of nutrients and health benefits:
Protein and Fiber
The combination of ground beef, bacon, and various beans makes calico beans an excellent source of protein. Protein is crucial for maintaining muscle mass, keeping you full, and providing the energy needed for daily activities. Beans are also rich in fiber, which promotes digestive health, keeps you feeling fuller for longer, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Beans are high in several essential nutrients, including iron, magnesium, and folate. Iron is important for transporting oxygen throughout your body, while magnesium helps regulate muscle and nerve function. Folate is vital for cell division and growth, making calico beans a great addition to a healthy diet.
Lowering Calorie and Fat Content
If you want to make calico beans a bit healthier, there are several ways to reduce the calorie and fat content:
- Use lean ground beef or ground turkey instead of regular ground beef.
- Reduce the amount of sugar by using less brown sugar or opting for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon to lower the fat content.
How to Serve Calico Beans
While calico beans are delicious on their own, they’re also fantastic as part of a larger spread. Here are some serving ideas:
- With Grilled Meats: Calico beans pair wonderfully with grilled meats, such as burgers, chicken, or ribs. The smoky flavor of the beans complements the charred exterior of grilled meats.
- Alongside Cornbread: A slice of cornbread is a perfect accompaniment to this dish. Its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture balance the savory, tangy beans.
- In a Salad: For a lighter meal, serve calico beans alongside a refreshing green salad or coleslaw to cut through the richness.
- Over Rice or Quinoa: For an even more filling meal, serve the beans over a bed of rice or quinoa. This makes the dish more substantial and adds a different texture.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Leftover Calico Beans
If you find yourself with leftovers, there are many ways to repurpose calico beans into new dishes. Here are some creative ideas for using leftovers:
Calico Bean Burritos
Turn your leftover beans into a filling for burritos. Simply spoon the calico beans into a tortilla, add shredded cheese, diced onions, and sour cream, then roll it up. You can even add rice for a heartier burrito. Heat it in a skillet or in the oven for a delicious new meal.
Calico Bean Chili
Transform your leftovers into a chili by adding extra spices such as chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. You can also add diced tomatoes and more vegetables like bell peppers or corn. Let it simmer until everything is heated through and serve with your favorite chili toppings.
Calico Bean Shepherd’s Pie
Make a twist on the classic shepherd’s pie by using calico beans as the base layer. Spread the beans in a baking dish, top with mashed potatoes, and bake until the top is golden brown. It’s a comforting meal that’s great for chilly nights.
Baked Calico Bean Nachos
Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet and top them with leftover calico beans, shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, and black olives. Bake until the cheese is melted, then top with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for a fun and delicious appetizer or snack.
Frequently Asked Questions about Calico Beans Recipe
How to Thicken Up Calico Beans?
If you find that your calico beans are too runny, there are a few tricks to thicken them up:
- Simmer uncovered: Allow the beans to cook uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Use a thickening agent: Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the beans and let them cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add more beans: You can mash a portion of the beans or add extra kidney beans to absorb some of the liquid and thicken the dish.
What Are Cowboy Beans Made Of?
Cowboy beans are often confused with calico beans, but they are slightly different. While both dishes feature a sweet and tangy flavor, cowboy beans tend to use fewer bean varieties and more pork-based ingredients, such as bacon or sausage. They are typically made with pinto beans, kidney beans, and pork and beans, all simmered in a tangy, sweet sauce made from ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
How Many Calories Are in 1 Cup of Calico Beans?
One serving of calico beans (approximately 1 cup) contains around 250-300 calories. The exact calorie count depends on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use. To reduce calories, you can use lean ground beef and reduce the sugar content in the sauce.
How to Flavor Cooked Beans?
To enhance the flavor of cooked beans, consider adding:
- A splash of vinegar or lemon juice for a burst of acidity.
- Fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves.
- Spices like cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika to add depth and complexity.
Conclusion: Calico Beans Recipe
There’s a reason calico beans recipe has become a beloved classic. It’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious, with its rich, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor profile. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a large gathering, calico beans are sure to satisfy. With endless variations and plenty of opportunities to make it your own, this recipe is a perfect addition to your comfort food repertoire.