Fourth of July Beans are a quintessential dish for any patriotic celebration, and this recipe, discovered in a Taste of Home magazine several years ago, has since become a staple at our annual 4th of July BBQ gatherings, receiving rave reviews and earning its rightful place on the menu year after year. With a cook time of just one hour and twenty minutes, including twenty minutes of preparation, these beans are not only delicious but also convenient for busy summer festivities. Falling under the Beans category and perfect for occasions like potlucks, summer gatherings, and weeknight dinners, this recipe promises a flavorful culinary experience that’s sure to impress your guests.
To whip up a batch of these delectable Fourth of July Beans, gather the following ingredients: 1/2 pound of bacon, 1/2 pound of ground beef, 1 onion, 1 can of lima beans, 1 can of kidney beans, 1 cup of barbecue sauce, 1/2 cup of ketchup, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of mustard, 2 tablespoons of molasses, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. These ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
With an aggregated rating of 4.5 stars from two reviews, these beans have already won over the hearts of many with their irresistible taste and easy preparation. Each serving contains approximately 364.6 calories, 13.2 grams of fat, 4.5 grams of saturated fat, 30.9 milligrams of cholesterol, 1106 milligrams of sodium, 50.5 grams of carbohydrates, 7.5 grams of fiber, 23 grams of sugar, and 13.6 grams of protein, making it a satisfying dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. This recipe yields 12 servings, making it ideal for feeding a crowd without any hassle.
Now, let’s dive into the cooking process. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a large skillet, cook the bacon, ground beef, and onions until the meat is browned and the onions are tender. Once cooked, drain any excess grease, and transfer the meat mixture into a greased 2 1/2-quart baking dish. Next, add the lima beans and kidney beans to the dish, mixing them well with the meat.
In a small bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, ketchup, sugar, brown sugar, mustard, molasses, salt, and chili powder, stirring until everything is thoroughly blended. Pour this flavorful sauce over the beef and bean mixture in the baking dish, ensuring that it coats everything evenly. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil, and bake it in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
After 45 minutes, remove the cover and continue baking the beans for an additional 15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and the top to become slightly caramelized. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. These Fourth of July Beans are best enjoyed hot, straight out of the oven, alongside your favorite BBQ fare and summertime sides.
With their irresistible combination of smoky bacon, savory beef, tender beans, and sweet and tangy sauce, these Fourth of July Beans are sure to become a favorite at your summer gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, attending a potluck, or simply craving a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and get ready to celebrate America’s independence with a heaping plate of these mouthwatering beans.
