calico beans

3 Pinches 1 Photo
Surrey South, BC
Updated on May 22, 2025

Very easy to make, this tasty recipe is perfect for pairing with grilled foods at your next family barbecue.

prep time 15 Min
cook time 1 Hr 15 Min
method Stove Top
yield 6 serving(s)

Ingredients

  • 6 slices bacon, cut into small pieces
  • 1 cup yellow onions, chopped
  • 1/2 cup celery, chopped
  • 1/2 cup red peppers, chopped
  • 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
  • freshly ground black pepper, to taste (I always use mixed peppercorns)
  • 2 large cloves garlic, pressed
  • 1 can Bush's maple & cured bacon hickory baked beans (28 oz.)
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (15.5 oz.)
  • 1 can lima beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz.)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup Kansas City BBQ sauce
  • 1 tablespoon prepared yellow mustard
  • 1/2 tablespoon white vinegar

How To Make calico beans

  • Step 1
    In a large pot, add bacon, turn the heat on medium, and cook until crispy, about 10 to 12 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, scoop it up into a bowl and set aside.
  • Step 2
    To the pot, add onions and celery; sauté for 5 minutes.
  • Step 3
    Add red peppers and sauté for 2 minutes.
  • Step 4
    Add ground beef and break it down into small pieces; season with freshly ground black pepper. Sauté until halfway done before adding pressed garlic; cook until no longer pink.
  • Step 5
    Cook an extra 5 minutes or until the fat is almost gone.
  • Step 6
    Add the remaining ingredients and return the cooked bacon to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 45 minutes, stirring often.
  • Step 7
    Five minutes before time is up, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Step 8
    To view this amazing side dish recipe on YouTube, click on this link ➡ https://youtu.be/SuFCF2l1XrI

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