Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory BBQ Sausage and Bean Medley?
It is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines three types of beans with smoked sausage in a tangy barbecue sauce and sweet brown sugar, cooked low and slow in a crock pot.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What are the main ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients include Great Northern beans, black beans, chopped onion, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, ground mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, and fully cooked smoked sausage.
How do I prepare the slow cooker for this dish?
Begin by spraying the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent the ingredients from sticking.
What types of beans are used in this medley?
The recipe calls for 15-ounce cans of Great Northern beans and black beans.
Do I need to drain the beans before using them?
Yes, the beans should be both rinsed and drained before being added to the mixture.
How should the sausage be prepared?
Use fully cooked smoked sausage and slice it into bite-sized pieces before placing it in the slow cooker.
What is the recommended cooking time?
Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook the medley for 5 to 6 hours.
Can I cook this recipe on high heat?
While the recipe recommends low heat for 5-6 hours to let flavors meld, most slow cooker recipes can be cooked on high for about half the time, though low is preferred for this dish.
What seasonings provide the savory flavor?
The savory profile comes from ground mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and chili powder.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 13 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
Each serving contains 42 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein does this meal provide?
This dish provides 17 grams of protein per serving.
Is this recipe considered a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is a complete and filling one-dish meal, though it can also be served over rice.
What should I serve with the Savory BBQ Sausage and Bean Medley?
It is delicious when served warm with crusty bread or served over a bed of rice.
Does this recipe use brown sugar?
Yes, it uses 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar to add a sweet note to the BBQ sauce.
Is the onion cooked before adding it to the crock pot?
No, the chopped onion is mixed raw with the beans and sauces; it cooks thoroughly during the slow cooking process.
How do I mix the ingredients?
Combine the beans, onion, sauces, and spices in a large mixing bowl first, then pour them into the slow cooker.
When do I add the sausage to the slow cooker?
The sliced sausage is placed evenly over the bean mixture after the mixture has been spread in the slow cooker.
What kind of barbecue sauce is best?
You can use your favorite brand of barbecue sauce, whether it is smoky, sweet, or spicy.
Is this recipe suitable for gatherings?
Yes, its hearty nature and easy preparation make it perfect for family dinners or larger social gatherings.
Can I substitute the smoked sausage?
Yes, you can use other fully cooked sausages like kielbasa or even a vegetarian sausage alternative.
How much chili powder is used?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of chili powder.
Does the dish require a gentle stir after cooking?
Yes, once the cooking time is complete, give the mixture a gentle stir to incorporate the sausage before serving.
How much Worcestershire sauce is needed?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
Can I store leftovers of this dish?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several days.
What is the texture of the dish?
It is a thick and hearty medley where the beans remain tender and the sauce becomes rich and syrupy.
Is this a comfort food recipe?
Yes, it is specifically tagged as a comfort food due to its warm, filling, and savory nature.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients if your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra volume.