A Comfort Food Classic
When you need a meal that’s hearty, flavorful, easy to make, and guaranteed to be a hit at potlucks or family dinners, look no further than Calico Beans in the Crock Pot. This dish is the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and smoky, with three types of beans, ground beef, and bacon all slow-cooked together in a rich, tangy sauce. It’s one of those feel-good comfort food recipes that reminds you of family gatherings and Sunday dinners at Grandma’s house.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping for the week, or just craving something filling and satisfying, this recipe delivers on every level. It’s budget-friendly, simple to throw together, and the slow cooker does most of the work for you.
Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a must-have in your meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love These Crock Pot Calico Beans
This recipe is for anyone who loves a meaty, bean-filled dish with a barbecue-style twist. The sweet and tangy sauce clings to the tender beans and savory meat, giving you a spoonful of bold flavor every time. It’s a fantastic option for:
- Busy parents who want an easy, dump-and-go slow cooker meal
- Meal preppers looking for hearty, reheat-friendly food
- Potluck stars who want to bring a crowd-pleasing dish
- Fans of baked beans or BBQ-style side dishes looking for a main course version
Not only is it satisfying on its own, but it also pairs well with so many other dishes. You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients that come together in a delicious medley. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ pound bacon, diced
- ½ onion, diced
- 1 (15 oz) can pork & beans
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can butter beans (large lima beans), drained
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
- ½ cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
The combination of beans creates that “calico” appearance and a variety of textures. The ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar provide a tangy sweetness that balances beautifully with the savory beef and bacon.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these slow-cooked Calico Beans is as simple as it gets. Here’s how:
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make Crock Pot Calico Beans, you’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools:
- Large skillet (for browning meat and bacon)
- Cutting board and knife (for dicing onion and bacon)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
- 6-quart or larger slow cooker
Tips and Tricks for the Best Calico Beans
- Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess grease, but still drain thoroughly for the best texture.
- Use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for a slightly sweeter, more complex flavor.
- Customize your bean blend. Don’t have butter beans? Use cannellini or great northern beans instead.
- Spice it up! Add a dash of hot sauce or a teaspoon of chili powder if you want a bit of heat.
- Make it meatless by skipping the beef and bacon and adding extra beans or crumbled tempeh.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
These beans are just as good (if not better) the next day, making them perfect for meal prep.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Let the beans cool completely, then freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
What to Serve with Calico Beans
These hearty beans can be a meal all by themselves, but if you want to round it out, here are a few ideas:
- Cornbread – The sweet, crumbly texture pairs perfectly with the beans.
- Coleslaw – A crisp, tangy slaw helps cut through the richness.
- Grilled hot dogs or sausages – Serve Calico Beans as a side dish at your next cookout.
- Green salad – Lighten up your plate with a simple garden salad on the side.
- Cold beer or sweet tea – Either of these drinks complement the sweet and smoky flavors beautifully.
FAQs About Crock Pot Calico Beans
Can I make Calico Beans ahead of time?
Yes! You can fully cook them, refrigerate, and reheat the next day. The flavors meld even more overnight.
Can I use turkey or plant-based meat instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or vegetarian meat crumbles are great substitutions.
Do I need to rinse the canned beans?
Only the kidney and butter beans should be drained and rinsed. Keep the pork and beans as-is for that saucy texture.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, cook on high for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring once midway.
Can I bake this instead of using a slow cooker?
Yes. Combine everything in a large baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 45-60 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Crock Pot Calico Beans are a nostalgic, comforting, and super easy dish that everyone loves. The rich, meaty base combined with a sweet-tangy sauce and the trio of beans makes for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to your next potluck, this recipe checks all the boxes.
