Reba McEntire’s Iconic “Good Gooooood” Beans

As a chef, I’ve had the privilege of cooking my way through countless recipes, each with its own story and charm. But there’s something truly special about a dish that carries the warmth and personality of its originator. Reba McEntire’s Beans, a recipe discovered in the pages of Ladies Home Journal, is one such treasure. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a taste of down-home comfort, perfectly suited for a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner. This isn’t just about sustenance; it’s about gathering, sharing, and savoring simple, robust flavors that remind you of good times and good company.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Dietary Type: Not specified (contains meat)

Ingredients

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, relying on pantry staples and a few key flavors to create something truly memorable.

• 5 slices cooked bacon, drained and crumbled
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 lb extra lean ground beef
• 1 (28 ounce) can pork and beans
• 1 (16 ounce) can stewed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard
• 1 teaspoon red pepper sauce

Ingredient Notes:

• Pork and Beans: These are your foundational element, providing a savory and slightly sweet base. If you can’t find “pork and beans,” a good quality plain baked bean or even a can of cannellini beans (drained and rinsed) could be a reasonable, though slightly different, substitute.
• Stewed Tomatoes: The stewed tomatoes add a pleasant acidity and a bit of texture. Make sure they are undrained to incorporate their liquid into the bean mixture.
• Spicy Brown Mustard: This mustard brings a welcome tang and depth that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar and barbecue sauce. If you don’t have spicy brown mustard, a good Dijon or even a regular yellow mustard can work in a pinch, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.
• Red Pepper Sauce: A little bit of heat goes a long way here. You can adjust this to your preference. Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice that works wonderfully.

Equipment Needed

You won’t need a lot of specialized equipment for this hearty dish.

• A large skillet with a lid (important for simmering)
• A spoon or spatula for stirring
• A measuring cup and spoons
• A serving dish

Instructions

The beauty of Reba’s beans lies in its simplicity. It’s a one-skillet wonder that comes together quickly, perfect for when you need a delicious side dish in a hurry.

1. Begin by cooking your bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Once cooked, drain it well on paper towels and then crumble it. Set aside about half of the crumbled bacon for topping later; the rest will go into the bean mixture.
2. In the same skillet you used to cook the bacon (no need to wash it – those bacon drippings are pure flavor!), add the chopped onion. Cook the onion over medium-high heat for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has softened and become translucent.
3. Now, add the extra lean ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook the ground beef, breaking it up with your spoon or spatula, until it is thoroughly browned.
4. Once the beef is browned, it’s time to drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for preventing the beans from becoming too heavy or oily.
5. Add the rest of the ingredients to the skillet: the canned pork and beans, the canned stewed tomatoes (undrained), the barbecue sauce, the packed brown sugar, the spicy brown mustard, the red pepper sauce, and the reserved half of the crumbled bacon (the part you set aside for the mixture). Stir everything together well to combine all the flavors.
6. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer the mixture for 15 to 20 minutes. During this simmering time, the flavors will meld beautifully, and the beans will thicken slightly. The recipe famously describes the goal as cooking “until it tastes real gooooooood!” – and trust me, it will. Give it a taste test towards the end of the simmering time and adjust seasonings if you feel it needs it.
7. Before serving, crumble the remaining reserved bacon over the top of the bean mixture. This provides a delightful crunchy texture and a final burst of smoky flavor.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t Skimp on the Bacon Drippings: Those flavorful remnants left in the skillet after cooking the bacon are gold. They impart a depth of flavor to the onions and ground beef that you simply can’t replicate.
• Taste and Adjust: The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. After simmering, taste the beans. If you prefer them a bit sweeter, add a touch more brown sugar. If you like more heat, add another dash of red pepper sauce. A tiny splash of apple cider vinegar can also brighten the flavors if they feel a bit too sweet.
• Simmering is Key: Don’t rush the simmering process. This is where the magic happens, allowing all the individual components to harmonize into a cohesive and delicious dish.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This dish is fantastic made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often meld even better after a day in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Reba’s Beans are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a wide array of dishes.

Serving:
Serve these hearty beans hot. They are a classic accompaniment to barbecued meats like ribs, pulled pork, or grilled chicken. They also make a satisfying side for hamburgers or hot dogs. For a more rustic meal, serve them alongside cornbread or a simple green salad. The crumbled bacon topping adds a lovely visual appeal and a textural contrast that is irresistible.

Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooled beans in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 to 3 months.

Reheating:
To reheat, gently warm the beans on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, stirring halfway through. If the beans seem a bit thick, add a tablespoon or two of water, broth, or even a little extra barbecue sauce to loosen them up.

Nutritional Information

This information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and amounts used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	533.3 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	171 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	19 g	29%
Saturated Fat	4.2 g	20%
Cholesterol	64.5 mg	21%
Sodium	3932.9 mg	163%
Total Carbohydrate	60.2 g	20%
Dietary Fiber	17.5 g	70%
Sugars	15.2 g	60%
Protein	38.1 g	76%

Variations & Substitutions

While the original recipe is perfection in its simplicity, here are a few ideas for variations if you’re feeling adventurous:

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and bacon. You can add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers, celery, or corn for more texture and flavor. Use a vegetarian Worcestershire sauce if your barbecue sauce contains anchovies.
• Spicier Kick: For those who love extra heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño pepper along with the onions.
• Smoky Flavor Boost: If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, a teaspoon of smoked paprika added with the other seasonings can enhance the dish.
• Different Beans: While pork and beans are traditional, you could experiment with a blend of different canned beans, such as kidney beans, pinto beans, or black beans, ensuring they are rinsed and drained if they are not “in sauce” varieties.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This dish is even better when made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q: What kind of barbecue sauce should I use?
A: Any of your favorite barbecue sauces will work well. A classic, slightly sweet, and tangy sauce is recommended.

Q: How long does it take to simmer the beans?
A: The recipe calls for simmering for 15 to 20 minutes over medium-low heat, uncovered, until the flavors have melded and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned stewed tomatoes?
A: You can, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Dice about two large ripe tomatoes and add them during the simmering stage. You might need to simmer them a bit longer to break down and create a similar sauce consistency.

Q: Is this dish suitable for a potluck or picnic?
A: Yes, it’s an excellent choice for potlucks and picnics! It travels well and is always a crowd-pleaser. Ensure it’s kept at a safe temperature during transport and serving.

Final Thoughts

Reba McEntire’s Beans are more than just a recipe; they are an invitation to a table filled with warmth, laughter, and delicious food. This dish embodies the spirit of comfort cooking – simple ingredients transformed into something truly special with a little bit of time and love. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, I encourage you to whip up a batch of these beans. They are the perfect partner for your next backyard barbecue, a comforting side for a weeknight meal, or a guaranteed hit at your next potluck. Share them with loved ones, savor the simple goodness, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll find yourself saying “gooooooood” with every bite.