Three-Bean Baked Beans, a delightful and hearty dish, offer a flavorful twist on the classic baked beans recipe. Combining the natural sweetness of beans with the savory richness of ground beef and bacon, this dish is a favorite at gatherings and cookouts.

The blend of three different types of beans, along with a harmonious mix of ingredients like brown sugar, ketchup, barbecue sauce, and molasses, creates a medley of flavors that’s both satisfying and comforting. In this article, we’ll explore the key ingredients that make Three-Bean Baked Beans a crowd-pleaser, the simple steps to prepare this dish, and offer tips on freezing for future enjoyment.

Three-Bean Baked Beans are all about combining a variety of ingredients to create a symphony of flavors. Here’s a quick rundown of the key components:

1. Ground Beef (1/2 pound): Adds richness and a savory depth to the dish.
2. Bacon Strips (5, diced): Infuses smoky and salty notes that complement the beans.
3. Chopped Onion (1/2 cup): Provides a mild and aromatic base for the flavor profile.
4. Brown Sugar (1/3 cup) and Sugar (1/4 cup): Deliver sweetness that balances the savory elements.
5. Ketchup (1/4 cup), Barbecue Sauce (1/4 cup), Molasses (2 tablespoons), and Prepared Mustard (2 tablespoons): Form the flavor-packed sauce that coats the beans.
6. Chili Powder (1/2 teaspoon) and Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Season the dish with a hint of spice and balance.
7. Canned Beans: The trio of pork and beans (two cans, 15 ounces each), butter beans (one can, 16 ounces), and kidney beans (one can, 16 ounces) creates a diverse and hearty mix.

Creating Three-Bean Baked Beans is a straightforward process that brings together a rich and flavorful sauce with a medley of beans. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this delicious dish:

1. Brown the Beef and Bacon:

• In a large skillet, cook and crumble the ground beef with the diced bacon and chopped onion over medium heat. Continue until the beef is no longer pink, then drain any excess fat.

2. Create the Flavorful Sauce:

• Stir in the brown sugar, sugar, ketchup, barbecue sauce, molasses, prepared mustard, chili powder, and salt. This blend of ingredients forms the rich, sweet, and tangy sauce that coats the beans.

3. Add the Trio of Beans:

• Stir in the trio of canned beans (pork and beans, butter beans, and kidney beans) without draining them. This adds a diverse mix of textures and flavors to the dish.

4. Bake to Perfection:

• Transfer the bean mixture to a greased 2-1/2-quart baking dish. Bake, covered, in a preheated oven at 350°F for approximately 1 hour or until the beans reach the desired thickness and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Three-Bean Baked Beans can be conveniently frozen for future enjoyment. To do so, allow the dish to cool completely before freezing it in suitable freezer containers. When you’re ready to savor this delightful dish again, partially thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and then reheat it in a saucepan, adding a bit of water if necessary.

Three-Bean Baked Beans offer a delectable twist on the classic baked beans recipe, combining savory and smoky flavors with a delightful blend of beans. This hearty and satisfying dish has a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it a favorite at gatherings, picnics, and cookouts.

Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main course, Three-Bean Baked Beans bring comfort and flavor to any meal. With simple preparation and the option to freeze for later, this dish is a convenient and delicious addition to your culinary repertoire.