Calico Beans with Ground Beef and Bacon

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once browned, drain the excess fat and set the beef aside.
In the same skillet, cook the bacon until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, chop into bite-sized pieces, and set aside.
Add the diced onion to the skillet with the bacon drippings and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked ground beef, bacon, and sautéed onion. Stir in the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard, salt, pepper, and ketchup until fully incorporated.
Add the butter beans, kidney beans, and pork and beans (with their juices). Gently mix everything until well combined and evenly coated in sauce.
Bake the dish uncovered for 1 hour, or until the sauce is thickened and bubbling at the edges.
Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.

Meat Swap: Use ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
Bean Blend: Try adding black beans or pinto beans for extra color and flavor.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and bacon, and increase the variety of beans and veggies.
Spicy Twist: Stir in chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce before baking.

For extra smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
Don’t skip the ketchup—it adds sweetness and tang that rounds out the dish.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of pork and bean juice slightly.
This dish can be made a day ahead and reheated before serving—perfect for planning ahead.
Serve with a side of coleslaw or cornbread to complete the meal.