Exploding Beans

And I don't mean me.  I have canned baked beans so old some are bulging and one actually exploded.  This is a very bad sign.  I threw out the bulging ones since it means botulism.  The others?  They're still good.  Well, we are still alive. 

Baked Bean Soup
From Betty Crocker
Serves 4

3 slices bacon, chopped 
1 lb. lean ground beef 
1 (21-oz.) can baked beans 
1 (14 1/2-oz.) can ready-to-serve beef broth 
1 (5.5-oz.) can vegetable juice cocktail, or 2/3 cup
3 tablespoons ketchup 

Cook bacon in large saucepan over medium-high heat for 2 minutes. Add ground beef; cook 5 to 8 minutes or until ground beef is thoroughly cooked, stirring frequently. Drain.

Add all remaining ingredients; mix well. Reduce heat to medium; cover and cook 10 minutes or until thoroughly heated, stirring occasionally.

Garnish each serving of this soup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkling of shredded cheese and some sliced green onions.  Serve with a mixed green salad and warm cornbread sticks. 

1 Serving (1 1/2 Cups): 420 calories