The Ultimate Baked Beans Recipe: Easy, Flavorful, and Family-Approved!

Looking for a dish that’s comforting and loved by all? This best baked beans recipe is perfect. It fills your home with a delicious smell. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.

This recipe is easy and can be changed to fit your family’s taste. You can make it traditional or try vegetarian options. It’s a treat for everyone.

This recipe makes 8 servings, great for family meals or barbecues. It cooks in 30-40 minutes at 350°F. You can also add spices like black pepper and smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Homemade baked beans are healthier than store-bought ones. They have less sodium and sugar. This makes them a better choice for your family.

You can also make this dish in a slow cooker. It cooks for 6-8 hours on low heat. This way, all the flavors mix well, giving you more time with your family.

Want to make this delicious dish? Click here to find the full recipe: here.

Introduction: Why This Baked Beans Recipe is the Best

This homemade baked beans recipe is special. It has rich flavors and is easy to make. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a comforting side dish. The mix of old and new ingredients makes it a hit with everyone.

The recipe starts with 2 big cans of baked beans. This gives 56 ounces of base. Then, ½ lb of crispy bacon adds a smoky taste. Sweetness comes from 1 cup of ketchup and ½ cup of molasses.

¼ cup of apple cider vinegar and some spices add more flavor. Smoked paprika, brown sugar, and tomato sauce make it even richer. These ingredients blend well together.

Bake the beans at 350°F (175°C) for 1 ½ to 2 hours. This makes them bubbly and the bacon crispy. For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes.

This recipe is not only tasty but also easy to store. You can freeze it in a BPA-free container for up to 6 months. It’s great for meal prep before family gatherings. It serves 8-10 people, making it perfect for big events.

The navy beans in the recipe are full of fiber. This helps with digestion and keeps you full. It’s a healthy choice for your family.

This recipe is a favorite for homemade baked beans. It’s a hit at family gatherings. Next time, make this dish to impress everyone.

Ingredients You Will Need

Making great baked beans is all about picking the right ingredients. They should mix together for a burst of flavor. Whether you’re making an easy baked beans recipe or just want to know the basics, we’ve got you covered. We’ll go over the main ingredients and some extra flavor boosters that make your dish pop.

Main Ingredients

Your baked beans recipe starts with key ingredients. They give your dish its body and basic taste. Here’s what you need to get started:

  • Baked beans – 56 ounces (two 28 oz cans)
  • Navy beans – 15 ounces (one can, drained and rinsed)
  • Diced onions – 1 large, finely diced
  • Diced bell peppers – ½ (optional, but adds a delicious crunch)
  • Spicy pork sausage – adds depth and a hint of heat
  • 8 slices of bacon (plus 2 tablespoons reserved bacon fat)

Additional Flavor Ingredients

After you have your main ingredients, it’s time for the flavor enhancers. They add complexity and richness to your dish:

IngredientQuantityRole in Recipe
Ketchup⅔ cupAdds a tangy sweetness
Molasses⅓ cupOffers a deep, rich sweetness
Brown Sugar3 tablespoonsEnhances the sweetness
Apple Cider Vinegar2 tablespoonsBalances the sweetness with a bit of acidity
Worcestershire Sauce1 tablespoonAdds a savory, umami depth
Dry Mustard Powder2 teaspoonsImparts a subtle zesty kick
Chili PowderTo tasteProvides a hint of heat
Cayenne Pepper (optional)To tasteFor additional spice
baked beans recipe
ingredient
baked beans recipe ingredient

These ingredients make a tasty and easy baked beans recipe. You can adjust them to fit your taste and dietary needs. This way, every serving is a joy for your family and friends.

How to Prepare the Bacon

Learning to cook bacon well is key for better baked beans. The right bacon adds flavor and texture. It makes your dish a true delight.

Choosing the Right Bacon

For the best bacon, choose high-quality, thick-cut types. Thick-cut bacon is meatier. It works well with hearty beans and rich sauce.

  • Smoky bacon sliced into 1/4-inch slivers is great instead of brisket. It adds depth to your beans.
  • Choose uncured, nitrate-free bacon for a healthier option.
  • Brands like Niman Ranch and Applegate Farms are known for their quality and taste.

Cooking the Bacon

To get the bacon just right, follow these steps:

  1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat: A cast-iron skillet is best for even heat.
  2. Cook the bacon: Place the strips in the skillet without overlapping. Cook until they start to brown, then flip.
  3. Render the fat: Let the bacon cook fully, rendering the fat. This fat is great for sautéing onions and peppers.
  4. Drain and chop: Once crispy, put the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Chop it into small pieces to mix into your beans.
  5. Mix into beans: Add the cooked bacon to your beans before baking. This adds smoky flavor.

By picking the best bacon and learning to cook it well, your baked beans will be amazing. They’ll have great flavors and textures.

Cooking the Onions and Peppers

To make a great base for baked beans, sautéing onions and peppers is key. Start by heating oil in a big skillet over medium heat. Then, add half a white onion, chopped finely, and one diced jalapeño pepper.

Cook the onions and peppers for 5-7 minutes. This makes the onions soft and clear. It’s important for a flavorful beans base.

Adding a pinch of salt while cooking helps too. This makes the dish taste better. It creates a rich, tasty base for your beans.

This step is not just cooking veggies. It’s about adding layers of taste to your beans. This makes every bite special.

Here’s a quick comparison to help you understand the impact sautéing can have:

AspectWithout SautéingWith Sautéing
FlavorBland, simpleRich, complex
TextureUniformVaried, caramelized
AromaBasicInviting, aromatic

Sautéing onions and peppers is more than a cooking trick. It makes your baked beans taste amazing. It ensures a memorable and tasty meal.

Combining Ingredients for the Best Flavor

Making the perfect baked beans recipe is all about mixing ingredients right. Start by combining cooked onions, peppers, and crispy bacon with two cans of 28-ounce baked beans. This is key to getting all flavors to mix well.

Then, add 8 ounces of tomato sauce and 8 ounces of ketchup. For sweetness, mix in 4 ounces of molasses. Stir until it’s all smooth. Add 2 ounces of apple cider vinegar for a tangy taste.

Don’t forget to add ⅛ cup of spicy brown mustard and yellow mustard, and 1 ounce of Worcestershire sauce. This makes the mix even better.

Spice it up with 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder. Add a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. This makes your baked beans special.

If you want it even richer, try adding extra spices. Fresh sliced jalapeños, chorizo, or hot sauce can make it unforgettable. Mixing everything well makes sure every bite is full of flavor.

Baking Your Beans to Perfection

To make irresistible baked beans, follow key steps for the perfect baked beans texture. First, heat your oven to 350°F. If using dried beans, soak them for 8 hours or overnight. This makes them tender and tasty.

Soak your beans and prep your onion, garlic, and bacon. Mix everything in a big pot or Dutch oven. Use about 1.75 cups of sauce mix, like ketchup and molasses. This mix adds great flavor.

Put the pot in the oven, covered with a lid or foil. Bake at 350°F for 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking blends flavors and makes the beans just right. Stir now and then to cook evenly.

Remember, oven temps can differ. If your beans are not tender after 1.5 hours, bake in 10-15 minute bits until they are. For smokiness, add bacon or hot sauce.

For a smoky taste, use wood like hickory or apple. These woods add a special flavor to your beans.

Here’s a quick guide to baking beans and what you need:

StepDetails
Soaking Beans8 hours to overnight
Cooking Temperature350°F
Initial Baking Time1.5 to 2 hours
Optional IngredientsBacon, hot sauce, jalapeños
Soaking BenefitImproves texture
Flavor EnhancementsHickory, mesquite, apple, or cherry wood

When your beans are done, they’re ready to eat. Add more seasoning if needed. Enjoy your homemade baked beans.

Making Vegetarian Baked Beans

Changing to vegetarian baked beans is easy and fun. You can make a tasty dish without meat. This guide will show you how to make delicious vegetarian baked beans.

Start with 2 cups (360 grams) of dried beans. Soak them for 8-12 hours. This makes them soft and not mushy.

While soaking, get ready your ingredients. You’ll need 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup fancy molasses, and spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder for heat.

Use smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. It’s like bacon or sausage but without the meat. Add 1.5 teaspoons of cumin and 0.5 teaspoon of oregano for more taste.

Cook the beans until they’re tender. Start checking at 30 minutes and then every 15 minutes. Mix the beans with your ingredients and bake until the flavors blend well.

If you have a slow cooker, cook for 6 to 8 hours. Check the beans at the 6th hour. This way, the beans soak up all the flavors, making a delicious dish with little work.

Nutritional InformationPer Serving
Calories89
Total Fat1g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Unsaturated Fat1g
Cholesterol3mg
Sodium385mg
Carbohydrates16g
Fiber2g
Sugar8g
Protein4g

With these easy steps, you can make a great vegetarian baked beans recipe. Enjoy it as a side or a main dish, perfect for any meal.

Easy Slow Cooker Baked Beans Recipe

Do you love baked beans but don’t have much time? This slow cooker recipe is quick and easy. It makes tender, tasty beans with little work.

  • 16 ounces dried beans
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium red bell peppers, chopped
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons of cumin
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ⅓ cup minced fresh oregano or 3 teaspoons dried
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 cups chicken broth or water with a bullion cube

Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 8 hours on low setting, or 3-4 hours on high setting

Steps to Prepare:

  1. Soak the Beans: Soak the beans overnight or use the quick soak method. Boil them for 3 minutes, then rest for 1 hour. Rinse and drain.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Put the soaked beans, onion, peppers, garlic, cumin, salt, oregano, and bay leaves in the slow cooker. Add the broth or water with bullion.
  3. Cook Low and Slow: Cook on low for 8 hours. For quicker cooking, use the high setting for 3 to 4 hours. Stir now and then for even cooking.
  4. Check and Serve: When the beans are tender, remove the bay leaves. Serve and enjoy your simple baked beans as a side or main dish!

This simple baked beans recipe in the slow cooker saves time. It’s great for busy families or those who like easy cooking. Try it and enjoy the easy prep and delicious taste!

With this slow cooker baked beans recipe, achieve delicious, tender beans with minimal effort and time. Ideal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing baked beans right keeps them fresh and tasty. Here’s how to store and reheat them so they taste great.

Storing in the Refrigerator

Put cooled baked beans in an airtight container in the fridge. Do this within two hours of cooking to stop bacteria. They stay good for 3-4 days in the fridge.

If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. You can freeze baked beans for up to 6 months. Make sure they’re cool before freezing.

Reheating Options

There are ways to make reheated baked beans taste like new:

  1. Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Put the beans in a dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20-30 minutes. Smaller portions take less time.
  2. Stovetop: Heat the beans on low for 5-10 minutes, stirring often.
  3. Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until hot.

Note: Don’t reheat baked beans more than once to stay safe.

Perfect Pairings for Baked Beans

Your baked beans can shine even brighter when paired with the right dishes. Let’s explore what to serve with baked beans to create a balanced and flavorful meal.

Adding the right sides can elevate your baked beans from a simple dish to a mouthwatering meal, perfect for various occasions.

  • Grilled Meats: Baked beans pair well with grilled chicken, beef, or pork sausage. The smoky flavors from the grill mix well with the beans’ sweetness and spice.
  • Cornbread: Cornbread’s soft, crumbly texture and sweet taste go great with baked beans. It adds heartiness and balance to the meal.
  • Rice: White or brown rice is a great choice for baked beans. Its mild flavor lets the beans’ robust taste shine.
  • Vegetables: Grilled or steamed veggies like carrots, zucchinis, and bell peppers add freshness. Their sweetness and crunch contrast well with the creamy beans.
  • Salads: A crisp green salad or coleslaw can refresh your meal. They balance the rich flavors of the beans well.
  • Fish Sticks: Gorton’s Premium Cod Fish Sticks are a surprising but tasty match for baked beans. Their crispy outside and tender fish inside add nice texture and flavor.

Knowing what to serve with baked beans can make your meal better. Choose from smoky meats or simple rice to make your dish satisfying and tasty. Use these pairings to make your menu special and impress your guests.

Adjusting the Recipe for Different Tastes

Do you like your baked beans spicy or sweet? It’s easy to make them just right for you. You can change the recipe to please everyone at your table.

Adding Extra Spice

Want your baked beans spicy? Here’s how to make them hotter:

  • Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers.
  • Put a few teaspoons of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper in.
  • Try a dash of your favorite hot sauce for more heat.

Adjust the spice to fit everyone’s taste. This way, your spicy baked beans will be a hit.

Enhancing the Sweetness

Do you like your baked beans sweet? Here’s how to make them sweeter:

  • Add more brown sugar to taste.
  • Try maple syrup for a richer sweet flavor.
  • Use a bit more ketchup for a tangy sweetness.

These simple changes will make your sweet baked beans a hit with everyone.

IngredientSpiciness LevelSweetness Level
Diced JalapeñosHighLow
Red Pepper FlakesMediumNone
Brown SugarNoneHigh
Maple SyrupNoneHigh
KetchupLowMedium

Customize your baked beans with these tips. Make them spicy or sweet. Try different ingredients to find the perfect mix for your family and friends.

Conclusion

This perfect baked beans recipe will be a hit with your family. It’s versatile and full of flavor. You can pick the best ingredients and follow easy steps to make it.

It’s great for many diets and events. You can change spices or try vegetarian options. This recipe lets you make it your own.

The recipe has sweet and smoky flavors. It also has ground beef, bell peppers, and bacon. It’s quick to make, ready in 30 minutes to cook in 15-20 minutes.

It’s perfect for busy nights or sudden get-togethers. You can keep it in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for 3 months. This way, you always have some ready.

These baked beans are great for BBQs, potlucks, or family dinners. You can try new ingredients and make it your own. This way, you’ll make memories at the dinner table. Happy cooking!

FAQ

What type of beans should I use for the best baked beans recipe?

Navy beans are the top choice for classic baked beans. But, pinto beans or great northern beans work great too.

Can I make baked beans ahead of time for family gatherings?

Yes, you can! Baked beans get better with time. Make them a day or two before and reheat when ready.

What are the main ingredients needed for homemade baked beans?

You’ll need beans, bacon, onions, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and molasses. Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and spices for extra flavor.

What is the best type of bacon for baked beans?

Thick-cut, smoked bacon is the best. Choose high-quality bacon for the best taste.

How do I cook the onions and peppers for the beans?

Cook onions and peppers in bacon fat or olive oil until soft. This adds great flavor to your beans.

Can I make vegetarian baked beans?

Yes, you can. Just skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead. Add bell peppers and carrots for extra taste.

How do I bake beans to perfection?

Bake at 325°F for several hours until thick and flavorful. Stir and add water if too dry.

Is there an easy slow cooker baked beans recipe?

Yes, mix all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

How should I store and reheat baked beans?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

What are some perfect pairings for baked beans?

Baked beans go well with grilled meats, coleslaw, cornbread, and potato salad. They’re great with many meals.

How can I adjust the baked beans recipe to suit different tastes?

For spice, add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika. For sweetness, use more brown sugar or molasses.

“Ready to make the best baked beans your family will love? Try this recipe today and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to explore more family-friendly recipes on Lucinda Recipes for delicious ideas that will make every meal special. Share your baked beans creation with us on social media using #BestBakedBeans—we can’t wait to see your masterpiece!

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