Looking for a tasty and easy baked beans recipe? You’re in the right spot! This quick dish is great for family dinners and summer BBQs. It’s easy to make, even for beginners, using simple ingredients.
It only takes 1 hour and 10 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll have a delicious side dish ready to enjoy. Each serving is full of protein and flavor, making it both quick and tasty.
Key Takeaways
- Preparation and cooking time is only 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- This recipe serves 4, with each serving containing 526 calories.
- Baked beans can be customized with various add-ins for unique flavors.
- Great as a side dish for both casual gatherings and festive occasions.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for 6 months.
Introduction to Baked Beans
Baked beans have a rich history that spans cultures and cuisines. Their origins trace back to Native American traditions. There, beans were slow-cooked with meat and sweeteners. This method made its way to New England kitchens, shaping the dish we know today.
A classic baked beans introduction includes Navy beans. They are cooked in a sweet and savory sauce. This combination is a staple in many cuisines.
In the United States, baked beans hold a special place. They are a favorite at summer picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. The history of baked beans shows their role in bringing people together through food.
Today, you can find many versions of baked beans. They show the dish’s versatility and lasting appeal. Baked beans are more than a side dish; they are a symbol of tradition and innovation.
Their rich flavors and hearty nature make them perfect for any event. They capture the spirit of community and togetherness.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Yield | 4-6 servings |
| Rating | 5 from 3 votes |
Why You’ll Love This Easy Baked Beans Recipe
This easy baked beans recipe is a hit because of its sweet and savory flavors. It invites you with its amazing aroma. You’ll love baked beans for their delicious taste and the health benefits they offer. They’re perfect as a side dish for many meals.
Using canned beans makes this recipe quick to prepare, taking just about 20 minutes. Although it cooks for three hours, it’s worth the wait. Every bite is a burst of flavor that everyone, kids and adults, will enjoy.
Baked beans are not just tasty; they’re also nutritious. Each serving has 125 calories, making them a lighter option. They pair well with grilled meats and cold cut sandwiches. This makes them a favorite at summer barbecues and family gatherings.
Feel free to add your own twist with ingredients like diced green bell peppers or cooked bacon bits. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish more colorful. This recipe has been loved for generations, creating special moments at the dinner table.
| Nutrition Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 125 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Protein | 0.2 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 8 mg |
| Sodium | 158 mg |
| Potassium | 58 mg |
| Fiber | 0.1 g |
| Sugar | 12 g |
Baked beans are more than just a side dish. They bring people together, making every meal special. Their heartiness and comfort make them a dish to cherish for years.
Ingredients for the Perfect Baked Beans
To make delicious baked beans, you need the right ingredients. Start with quality items that mix well to boost flavor and health. Here are the top ingredients for a classic taste:
- ½ pound of chopped bacon
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 2 (15-ounce) cans of baked beans
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup prepared mustard
This recipe can be tweaked to your liking. For sweetness, brown sugar or molasses are great. You can also change the beans to fit your taste.
Using the best ingredients makes your dish taste better and healthier. Bacon adds a savory flavor, while onions add sweetness and crunch. Together, they make perfect baked beans.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bacon | ½ pound |
| Onion | 1 (finely chopped) |
| Baked Beans | 2 (15-ounce) cans |
| Brown Sugar | ¼ cup |
| Ketchup | ¼ cup |
| Prepared Mustard | ¼ cup |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make baked beans that everyone will love. Enjoy cooking!
Preparation Steps for Your Baked Beans Recipe
Getting ready for baked beans is key to a tasty dish. Start by chopping the bacon and onion. Cook the bacon until crispy, then add the onion and let it soften. You can drain excess oil to keep the dish lean. This step takes about 5 minutes, laying a good base for your beans.
Prepping the Ingredients
To get the best flavor, you’ll need:
- 1 and ⅓ cups of dried navy beans (soaked for 8-12 hours)
- ¾ cup thick-cut pork bacon (8 slices recommended for enhanced flavor)
- ¼ cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup tomato sauce or ketchup
- ¼ cup molasses
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- ½ cup brown sugar (adjust sweetness to taste)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons dry mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup liquid (apple juice or water)
- Additional ½ cup water (if needed)
Combining the Flavors
After prepping your ingredients, mix them together. In the skillet, combine cooked bacon, onion, beans, brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard. Stir well to mix everything evenly. This step is crucial for a rich flavor.
Let the mixture cook until it bubbles. This will make your dish even more flavorful and warm.
Cooking Your Easy Baked Beans
Choosing the right method for cooking baked beans can make a big difference. You can cook them in the oven or a slow cooker. Each method has its own benefits, depending on your time and preferences.
Oven Method vs. Slow Cooker
To make oven baked beans, preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare your bean mixture and put it in a baking dish. Cover it with foil and bake for about 50 minutes.
Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes. This way, you get rich flavors and a tasty crust on top.
Slow cooker baked beans are easy and hands-off. Just mix the ingredients in the slow cooker and set it on low. Let it cook for about 6 hours. This method makes the flavors blend together, creating a hearty dish.
Both methods are easy and delicious. They’re great for busy cooks who want a classic dish without much effort. Here’s a quick comparison of the oven and slow cooker methods in a table below.
| Cooking Method | Temperature (°F) | Cooking Time | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven Baked Beans | 350 | 60 minutes (50 min covered + 10 min uncovered) | 11 minutes |
| Slow Cooker Baked Beans | Low | 6 hours | 11 minutes |
Choose the method that fits your schedule. Enjoy making homemade baked beans, perfect for any time.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Beans
Baked beans are a tasty and filling choice for any meal. You can find many ways to make them even better. Try different baked beans serving ideas to boost their flavor and match them with other dishes.
Here are some popular sides for baked beans:
- Barbecued meats like pulled pork, hamburgers, and hot dogs
- Grilled chicken for a lighter touch
- Coleslaw and potato salad for refreshing contrasts
- Jalapeño cornbread to provide a spicy kick
When deciding how to serve baked beans, think about adding refreshing drinks like iced tea. You can also pair them with seasonal fruits like watermelon. This makes for a complete and enjoyable meal.
Storage Tips for Leftover Baked Beans
Knowing how to store baked beans right can make them last longer and taste better. After you cook your baked beans, it’s key to think about leftover baked beans storage to avoid waste. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 5 days.
Freezing is great for keeping baked beans longer. It’s best to freeze them the same day they’re cooked for the best taste. Put the beans in a freezer-safe container, leaving room for them to expand. Experts say you can freeze them for up to six months, but they might lose some flavor after three.
To thaw frozen baked beans, put them in the fridge overnight. For faster thawing, warm them up in a saucepan over low heat. Adding a bit of water helps. While microwaving is quick, some prefer the old ways for health reasons. Always heat the beans to 165°F (74°C) before eating them again.
It’s important to know how long your baked beans last. Unopened canned beans can stay good for 3 to 5 years after their “best by” date. Opened cans should be eaten within 3 to 4 days in the fridge. By following these tips, you can enjoy your baked beans for a long time.
Variations and Add-Ins to Elevate Your Baked Beans Recipe
Enhance your baked beans with various add-ins for baked beans. Adding salt pork or sliced sausage gives it a hearty flavor. For a spicy kick, try fresh jalapeños or hot sauce.
Seasonings and tangy elements can also improve your recipe. Apple cider vinegar or BBQ sauce add brightness. Yellow mustard or Worcestershire sauce add depth. Maple syrup can replace brown sugar for a sweet twist.
Vegetables like bell peppers add color and nutrition. Here are some ideas for your next batch:
- Chorizo instead of ground beef
- Sweet corn for texture
- Black olives or kidney beans for variety
- Rice as a serving base for added heartiness
- Spicy mustard for a zesty kick
Trying these baked beans variations and add-ins for baked beans makes your dish unique. It’s a chance to create flavors you love and wow your guests!
Why Baked Beans Are a Great Side Dish
Baked beans are a tasty and useful side dish for many meals. They offer more than just flavor, making them key in your cooking. They’re full of dietary fiber and protein, helping with digestion and keeping energy up.
When choosing baked beans as a side dish, remember they’re affordable, flexible, and simple to make. They go well with many main dishes, whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a fancy dinner. You can add different ingredients to make them even better in taste and nutrition.
Here are some great side dish ideas with baked beans:
- Pair them with grilled meats for a hearty outdoor feast.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables to create a balanced plate.
- Incorporate as part of a comforting chili dish.
- Include them in a vegetarian platter for added protein.
You can make baked beans ahead of time. This lets you enjoy their nutritional advantages without stress. They also keep well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for busy cooks.
Conclusion
In this baked beans recipe recap, it’s clear that easy baked beans are a joy to have at any meal. They mix fresh ingredients, protein, and flexibility. This lets you tweak the flavors to fit your taste, season, or any special event.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to the kitchen, this dish is easy to make but full of flavor. It’s a must-have in your cooking collection.
This easy baked beans summary shows how versatile it is. It’s great as a hearty side or a main dish. With cooking times of just 20-30 minutes, it’s perfect for BBQs.
Pair it with smoked brisket or pulled pork for a complete meal. Add cornbread and a fresh salad for a true BBQ feast.
In conclusion, baked beans are not just tasty but also good for you. They’re high in fiber and protein. As you try different recipes, you’ll see why baked beans are a beloved favorite.