A hearty dish brings together wholesome ingredients for a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect any time of year. Easy to prepare and packed with natural goodness, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time7 hr 20 min
Total Time7 hr 35 min
Difficulty
Hard
Cooking Tips
Soak the beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve texture.
Use low-sodium broth to control the salt level in the dish.
Stir occasionally while baking to prevent beans from sticking to the bottom.
Ingredients
0/15
Reasons You'll Love It
These beans are packed with rich, hearty flavors and wholesome ingredients. They offer a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for family meals or casual gatherings, they bring a taste of home with every bite.
Step 1
Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat, turning it now and then until it’s nice and crispy, about 10 minutes. Once done, drain the bacon on some paper towels, but keep about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet. Crumble the bacon and pop it into your slow cooker.
Step 2
Add the ground beef and chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon drippings. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and crumbly, which should take around 5 to 10 minutes. Transfer this mixture to the slow cooker with the bacon.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, barbecue sauce, ketchup, mustard, molasses, liquid smoke, black pepper, and chili powder. Pour this sauce over the meat mixture in the slow cooker and give it a good stir.
Step 4
Now add all the beans—the baked beans, kidney beans, Great Northern beans, and pinto beans—and mix everything until it’s well combined. Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours. For even better flavor, let it chill in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the slow cooker for at least an hour until it’s warmed through. Enjoy!
107
people cooked this recipe
ByMichael Davis
Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.
Serving Recommendations
Serve with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious sauce. They also pair well with grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, add a side of roasted meats or sausages.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the beans seem dry. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to three months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bacon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any bacon you prefer, such as turkey bacon or center-cut bacon, but keep in mind the flavor and fat content may vary.
Is it necessary to use all the different types of beans listed?
No, you can use any combination of beans you like or have on hand. Just make sure they are drained and rinsed before adding.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook it in a large pot on the stove over low heat for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally until flavors meld.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after chilling overnight and reheating before serving.
What can I use if I don’t have liquid smoke?
You can omit it or add a small amount of smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick from the chili powder, but you can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
Can I make this vegetarian?
You can omit the bacon and ground beef and add extra beans or vegetables to keep it hearty.
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