Delicious Homemade Baked Beans Recipe | Easy & Tasty

Ever wondered why homemade baked beans taste better than the canned kind? It’s all about the right mix of ingredients and the care put into making them. This simple recipe will make your summer BBQs and potlucks unforgettable.

Picture serving up a dish of sweet and savory baked beans. Their rich smell will fill the air, making everyone’s mouth water. With just a few ingredients and little prep, you’ll make a side dish that people will want more of.

This recipe is easy for anyone, whether you’re experienced in the kitchen or new. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to make a batch that’s as good as any restaurant side dish. Let’s explore the world of baked beans and see why they’re a classic comfort food.

Key Takeaways

• Homemade baked beans offer superior flavor and customization options
• The recipe requires only 5 basic ingredients and takes about 2 hours to prepare
• You can easily adjust the quantity to serve larger gatherings
• Baked beans can be made ahead and stored for several days
• The dish is versatile and pairs well with various BBQ favorites
• Nutritional benefits include high fiber and protein content
• There are multiple cooking methods, including stovetop, oven, and slow cooker

The Perfect Side Dish for Summer BBQs

Imagine a sizzling grill, the smell of burgers filling the air, and a table full of delicious sides. Baked beans are the star of any summer BBQ. They bring a sweet and savory flavor to the table.

Our homemade baked beans recipe is a hit, with a 4.99 out of 5 rating from 3,695 votes. It’s loaded with bacon, sweet onion, bell pepper, and spices that will delight your taste buds. Plus, it only takes 30 to 35 minutes in the oven at 400°F.

For summer BBQs, this recipe is a must-have. It makes plenty for a family with leftovers, great for freezing or sharing. Serve it with a juicy smash burger for a perfect combination.

Looking to boost your summer BBQ? Add vibrant salads like quinoa tabbouleh or watermelon feta mint to your menu. These pair perfectly with hearty beans and fresh produce for a well-rounded meal. Plus, you can make this dish ahead of time, so you can focus on enjoying the sunshine and your guests.

Why Homemade Baked Beans Are Better Than Canned

Homemade baked beans are often better than the canned kind. Let’s see why making your own can change your meals for the better.

Superior Flavor and Texture

Homemade baked beans taste better than canned ones. Cooking beans yourself makes them tender yet firm. You can’t get this with canned beans, which might be too mushy or too sweet. You can also adjust the flavor to what you like.

Control Over Ingredients

When you make baked beans at home, you control what goes in. You can pick top-quality ingredients and season them just right. This is great for people with special diets or health needs.

Cost-Effective Option

Homemade baked beans can save you money, especially if you’re feeding a lot of people. Buying dried beans in bulk and using common pantry items lets you make a lot of beans for less money than buying canned ones.

“Cooking baked beans from scratch allows for a depth of flavor that canned versions just can’t replicate. It’s a simple way to elevate your meal.”

Choosing homemade baked beans means you get a better taste and a healthier, cheaper option for your meals.

Essential Ingredients for Baked Beans Recipe

Starting with the right ingredients is key to making delicious homemade baked beans. You probably have most of these items in your pantry already. Let’s explore the must-haves for this classic dish.

The base of great baked beans is the beans themselves. Navy beans or Great Northern beans are best. You’ll need about 1-⅓ cups of dried beans, soaked overnight, or 4 cans (16-ounce) if using canned beans.

For that smoky taste, add 3 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped. If you want a heartier dish, throw in 1½ pounds of ground beef. And don’t forget ¼ cup of finely chopped yellow onion for extra flavor.

The sauce is what makes the dish special. Here’s what you mix for a sweet and tangy sauce:

• ½ cup tomato sauce or ketchup
• ¼ cup molasses
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons dry mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup barbecue sauce

Season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce. For more depth, add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. A little garlic powder can also take the flavor up a notch.

With these ingredients, you’re set to make a dish that serves 10-12 people. It takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes to prepare. This comforting side dish has 199 calories per serving.

Choosing the Right Beans: Navy vs Great Northern

Choosing the right beans for your baked beans can greatly affect the taste and texture. Let’s look at two popular options: Navy beans and Great Northern beans.

Characteristics of Navy Beans

Navy beans are tiny, about the size of a pea. They become creamy when cooked and keep their shape well. This makes them perfect for homemade baked beans.

These beans get tender and creamy after cooking for a long time. They’re great at soaking up flavors.

Benefits of Great Northern Beans

Great Northern beans are a bit bigger than Navy beans. They have a mild, nutty taste and soak up liquids well. This makes them great for hearty dishes with lots of broth or sauce.

They also have a creamy texture similar to Navy beans, making them a good choice for baked beans.

Canned vs Dried Beans: Pros and Cons

Canned beans are convenient, but dried beans give you more control over texture and cooking time. For dried beans, you can use the overnight soak method.

Cover the beans with water and let them sit overnight. Then, simmer them for an hour the next day. Or, you can use the quick soak method.

Boil the beans for 3 minutes, let them stand for an hour, and then simmer until they’re tender.

The Secret to Sweet and Savory Flavor

Making the perfect sweet and savory baked beans is an art. It’s all about balancing sweet and tangy flavors. You’ll need a mix of ingredients for that delicious taste.

Begin with a base of beans. Great Northern, navy, baby butter, and pinto beans work great together. Then, add molasses and brown sugar for sweetness, but be careful not to add too much. This keeps the calories around 322 per serving.

For savory flavors, use ketchup, cider vinegar, and dry mustard. These add depth and complexity to your beans. And don’t forget bacon – it adds a smoky flavor that brings everything together.

Adjust these ingredients to your liking. The best sweet and savory baked beans are the ones you love. Try different ratios to find your perfect flavor balance.

Adding a Smoky Touch: Bacon or Salt Pork

Baked beans with bacon have a classic smoky flavor that’s irresistible. Adding bacon or salt pork makes your beans even better. Let’s see how to get that perfect smoky taste in your homemade baked beans.

How to Prepare Bacon for Baked Beans

To prep bacon for your baked beans, cut it into small pieces. Cook the bacon in a skillet until it’s crispy. This step releases the fat and makes the smoky flavor stronger. Then, add the crispy bacon bits to your beans before baking for a rich, savory taste.

Salt Pork: An Alternative to Bacon

Salt pork is a fattier option that adds depth to your baked beans. Fry and crumble it before mixing it into your beans. This ingredient was popular in vintage baked bean recipes from the late 1800s, along with brown sugar and molasses.

Vegetarian Options for Smoky Flavor

For vegetarian baked beans, you can still get a smoky taste. Try adding liquid smoke or smoked paprika to your recipe. These ingredients mimic the smoky flavor without using meat products.

Whether you choose bacon, salt pork, or a vegetarian option, the key is to balance the smoky flavor with the sweetness of your baked beans. For a quick and easy meal idea, try pairing your homemade baked beans with a delicious chicken bowl.

Baked Beans Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Are you ready to make tasty baked beans from scratch? This simple recipe is great for your next BBQ or family event. It takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes to prepare, making 8-10 servings.

First, heat your oven to 350°F. Cook 4 slices of bacon until it’s crispy. Then, take the bacon out and set it aside. Next, sauté 1 small diced onion until it’s translucent.

Now, add 4 cans of pork and beans, 1/2 cup ketchup, 1 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/3 cup dark brown sugar, 1 tsp dry mustard, and 1/2 cup sorghum syrup or molasses. Stir everything together.

For an even richer taste, use chicken stock instead of vegetable stock. Add the cooked bacon back into the pot. Mix it well and put it in a baking dish if needed.

1. Cover the dish and bake for 45 minutes
2. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes
3. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving

This recipe has gotten a fantastic 4.97 out of 5 rating from 82 votes. You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Enjoy your homemade baked beans!

Stovetop vs Oven Method: Which is Better?

When making baked beans, you can choose between stovetop or oven methods. Each has its own benefits. Let’s look at them to help you pick the best for your next batch.

Stovetop baked beans are fast and easy. They’re ready in about 15 minutes, great for when you’re in a hurry. You can stir them easily and adjust flavors quickly.

Oven-baked beans take longer but taste richer and are thicker. They’re perfect for big batches and give that classic baked texture we all love.

To make oven-baked beans, preheat your oven to 350°F. Cook the beans for 1 hour with the cover on. Then, remove the cover and bake for another 15-20 minutes. This method is great for large batches.

Oven-baked beans are a bit better in flavor and texture. The oven’s slow heat blends the flavors well. This creates that sweet and savory taste we all love in baked beans.

Slow Cooker Baked Beans: A Hands-Off Approach

Slow cooker baked beans are a great way to make this classic dish with little effort. They cook for a long time, making them perfect for any event. You’ll get rich, flavorful beans that everyone will love.

Adapting the Recipe for Slow Cookers

To make crock pot baked beans, begin by cooking onions and bacon in a pan. Then, move this mix to your slow cooker. Add beans, molasses, mustard, and seasonings. Make sure to mix everything well.

Ideal Cooking Times and Temperatures

For the best slow cooker baked beans, cook on low for 5 hours. This lets the flavors blend and keeps the beans soft. If you’re in a hurry, cook on high for 3 hours but check the liquid often.

Tips for Slow Cooker Success

• Use a 3-quart slow cooker for the best results
• Add 4 slices of thick-cut bacon for extra flavor
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
• Adjust liquid if needed during cooking

Each serving of these tasty slow cooker baked beans has 286 calories, 57g carbs, and 14g protein. They’re a healthy choice for any meal, packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This recipe makes 6 servings, ideal for family dinners or potlucks.

Customizing Your Baked Beans: Flavor Variations

Baked beans are a dish you can make your own. You can add different ingredients and change the flavors. Let’s look at some ways to make your baked beans special.

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce. If you like smoky flavors, use liquid smoke or more bacon. If you don’t eat bacon, try smoked paprika for a similar taste.

To make Boston baked beans, use more molasses and add salt pork. This version is sweet and rich, loved in New England. You can also try different mustards or barbecue sauces for new tastes.

• Add diced bell peppers for extra crunch and color
• Include a splash of bourbon for depth and complexity
• Try using different bean varieties like butter beans or great Northern beans
• Incorporate ground beef, turkey, or sausage for a heartier dish

The secret to great baked beans is finding the right balance of flavors. Start with a little of each new ingredient and adjust as needed. With these tips, you can turn a simple side into a meal that’s all your own.

Pairing Baked Beans with Other BBQ Favorites

Baked beans are a must-have at any BBQ. They’re great for summer cookouts, serving 12-15 people. Let’s look at some tasty BBQ side dishes and baked beans pairings for the ultimate feast.

Classic BBQ foods like hamburgers, hot dogs, and grilled chicken go well with baked beans. For a bigger meal, try them with ribs or brisket. The sweet and tangy beans match the smoky meats perfectly.

Want to try something different? Here are some great pairings:

• BBQ sandwiches with a side of beans
• Crispy fries and baked beans
• Grilled sausages alongside your bean dish
• Cheesy mac and cheese with a scoop of beans
• Fresh salad to balance the richness of the beans

For a budget-friendly meal, serve beans over rice or with pasta. Toast is also a simple yet tasty choice. On game day, chili and beans make a crowd-pleasing combo.

Your baked beans recipe has about 205 calories per serving. They have 21g of carbs and 14g of protein. Pair them well to make a balanced meal that’s both tasty and fulfilling.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips for Baked Beans

Learning how to store baked beans is crucial for enjoying them anytime. Whether you’re planning meals ahead or have leftovers, the right storage keeps your beans tasty.

Refrigeration Guidelines

Let your baked beans cool down before storing them. Put them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. This is great for short-term storage and reheating quickly.

Freezing and Thawing Methods

Freezing baked beans keeps them fresh for a long time. Here’s what to do:

1. Cool beans completely
2. Portion into freezer-safe containers
3. Label with date and contents
4. Freeze for up to 3 months

To thaw, put frozen beans in the fridge overnight. This slow thawing helps keep the texture and taste.

Reheating for Best Results

Reheat beans that have been refrigerated or thawed on the stovetop over low heat. Stir now and then, adding a bit of water if it’s too dry. For fast reheating, use a microwave. Stir every 30 seconds until it’s hot.

By using these tips, you’ll always have delicious baked beans for your next meal or BBQ.

Nutritional Benefits of Homemade Baked Beans

Homemade baked beans are not just tasty; they’re also packed with nutrition. These legumes bring a lot of health benefits to your diet. Let’s explore the nutrition facts and see why they’re a great choice for your meals.

A 200g serving of homemade baked beans has about 148 calories, 27g of carbs, 9g of protein, and 3g of fat. They’re also high in fiber at 8g per serving, which helps with digestion and keeps you full. They have less sugar and sodium than store-bought beans, letting you control your intake better.

Homemade baked beans are a great source of plant-based protein. They’re full of vitamins and minerals like iron, potassium, and magnesium. The tomato sauce also has lycopene, an antioxidant that’s good for your heart.

By making your own baked beans, you’re choosing a nutritious side dish. Just remember, beans are high in carbs, so eat them in moderation. Adding them to a balanced diet can lead to better health.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

Make your baked beans stand out with creative serving ideas. Serve them in a cast-iron skillet or a colorful ceramic dish for a rustic look. This keeps the beans warm and adds beauty to your table. At a BBQ, use a slow cooker or chafing dish to keep the beans at the perfect temperature.

Offer a slotted spoon for easy serving. For a personal touch, use small ramekins or mason jars for individual portions. Add toppings like crispy bacon bits or diced onions to let guests customize their beans.

Leftover baked beans can be used as a topping for hot dogs, burgers, or nachos. This recipe has 316 calories per serving and a 4.22 average rating from 28 votes. For more ideas, check out this creamy chicken carbonara recipe that goes well with baked beans.

Good presentation is important for baked beans. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color and flavor. These tips will make your baked beans dinner memorable, whether for a crowd or a family meal.