Baked Beans Recipe: A Comforting and Delicious Dish in 2024

Introduction Baked Beans Recipe

Baked beans Recipe are a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening. In this blog post, we’ll share our ultimate baked beans recipe, along with tips and variations to help you create the perfect batch every time.

Nutritional Benefits of Baked Beans Recipe

Baked beans are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that can benefit your health. Here are some of the nutritional advantages of incorporating baked beans into your diet:

• High in fiber: Beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes feelings of fullness, and helps maintain healthy bowel movements.
• Protein-rich: Baked beans are a good source of plant-based protein, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans looking to increase their protein intake.
• Nutrient-dense: Beans contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins, which contribute to overall health and well-being.
• Low in fat: When prepared with minimal added fats, baked beans are a low-fat food that can be incorporated into a balanced diet.

Ingredients and Instructions

Baked Beans Recipe: A Comforting and Delicious Dish

Course: Side DishCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

14

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

30

minutes

Calories

320

kcal

This easy to follow recipe is suitable for both novice and experienced cooks alike, with simple ingredients and straightforward instructions. 

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) of navy beans, drained and rinsed

• 1/2 pound bacon, diced

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1/2 cup molasses

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 cup water

Directions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
• Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
• In a large bowl, combine the drained and rinsed navy beans, cooked bacon, sautéed onion, molasses, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
• Transfer the bean mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour in the water and stir to combine.
• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
• Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
• Remove from the oven and let the baked beans cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Beans Recipe

• Choose the right beans: Navy beans are the traditional choice for baked beans, but you can also use great northern beans or cannellini beans.
• Customize the flavor: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar and molasses. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño.
• Vegetarian option: Omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version. You can replace the bacon grease with olive oil or butter when sautéing the onion.
• Slow cooker method: If you prefer, you can make baked beans in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Serving Suggestions

Baked beans are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve alongside grilled meats like burgers, hot dogs, or barbecue chicken.
• Enjoy with a side of coleslaw and cornbread for a classic Southern-inspired meal.
• Top with shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños for a spicy and cheesy twist.
• Use as a filling for tacos or burritos, paired with rice and salsa.

Baked Beans Around the World

Baked beans are enjoyed in many countries, with each region putting its own unique spin on the dish. Here are a few examples of how baked beans are prepared and enjoyed around the world:

• United Kingdom: In the UK, baked beans are a staple food often served on toast for breakfast or as a side dish with meals like fish and chips or a full English breakfast.
• United States: American-style baked beans are typically sweetened with molasses or brown sugar and flavored with bacon or similar to the recipe provided in this blog post.
• Canada: French-Canadian baked beans, known as “fèves au lard,” are slow-cooked with maple syrup resulting in a unique sweet and savory flavor profile.
• Mexico: In Mexico, “frijoles charros” are a popular version of baked beans, cooked with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and chorizo, and often served as a side dish or used as a filling for tacos and burritos.

Leftover Baked Beans Ideas

If you find yourself with leftover baked beans, don’t let them go to waste! Here are some creative ways to repurpose your leftovers:

• Baked bean soup: Puree leftover baked beans with vegetable or chicken stock to create a hearty and flavorful soup. Top with croutons or shredded cheese for added texture and flavor.
• Baked bean dip: Mash leftover baked beans and mix with sour cream, chopped green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese for a tasty dip. Serve with tortilla chips or vegetable crudités.
• Baked bean quesadillas: Spread leftover baked beans and shredded cheese between two tortillas, then cook in a skillet until the cheese melts and the tortillas are crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa and guacamole.
• Baked bean shepherd’s pie: Layer leftover baked beans in a baking dish, top with mashed potatoes, and bake until heated through and the potatoes are golden brown. This comforting meal is perfect for using up leftovers.

Conclusion Baked Beans Recipe

This ultimate baked beans recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With its rich, smoky flavor and tender texture, it’s the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a comforting dish to enjoy at home, these baked beans are sure to satisfy. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a delicious and heartwarming meal.