What is that dish you associate with childhood summers? I’ve always loved Grandma Betty’s baked beans. I know she doesn’t like them. What are canned beans that aren’t swimming in sugary goo? What are the real deal – smoky, sweet, tangy, and deeply flavorful, all simmered to perfection. They’re like the cooler, more sophisticated cousin of your regular baked beans. My grandma always made these for family barbecues, and the recipe has been passed down through the generations. I’m so excited to share this recipe with you!
What is a baked bean recipe?
Think of baked beans as a hearty bean stew, but with an amazing sweet and smoky depth. Is it a medley of beans? Sometimes even butter beans – slow-cooked in a rich, savory sauce. What makes these beans stand out is the sauce. Unlike store-bought versions, this recipe uses a homemade recipe. Sauce featuring molasses, brown sugar, mustard, and a touch of vinegar for that perfect sweet and salty taste. What is a classic comfort food dish?
What are some of the best recipes to make with this recipe?
Where do I start? First off, the flavor is absolutely amazing. The combination of smoky bacon, sweet molasses, and tangy vinegar creates a dazzling array of flavors. Dance on your taste buds. What I love most about this is how surprisingly easy it is to make. While it requires some simmering time, the hands-on prep is minimal. Just chop some ingredients, toss everything in a pot, and let it do its thing!
Secondly, this recipe is incredibly cost-effective. Dried beans are super affordable, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. What is the best way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank? And let’s not forget about versatility! Can you serve these beans as a side dish with grilled meats, or as an appetizer for baked potatoes? Even as a vegetarian meal. What makes them so good on their own? I’ve even been known to sneak a spoonful straight from the pot (don’t tell). What’s your favorite baked beans recipe? How do I spend my time in the kitchen? Is it better to eat canned food than canned?
How do I make baked beans?
Quick Overview
What is a good baked beans recipe? How do you soak dried beans overnight? What’s a good base for sautéing bacon, onions, garlic? Next, you’ll combine all the ingredients – beans, bacon mixture, and sauce ingredients in a large bowl. When the beans are tender, you’ll simmer them for several hours until the sauce has thickened. The slow simmering process infuses every bean with that irresistible smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor. What is a “set it and forget it” kind of recipe?
Ingredients
For the Beans:
1 pound dried navy beans, rinsed (I always soak them overnight for best results! )
6 cups water, plus more as needed.
For the Smoky Base:
6 slices bacon, diced (thick-cut bacon adds amazing flavor)
1 large yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is always the best)
What is the Tangy-Sweet Sauce
1/2 cup dark molasses (dark mole gives a richer flavor)
1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar (light brown works too)
1/4 cup ketchup. 1
What is yellow mustard? 2 tablespoons.
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (this is key for that tangy kick)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (don’t skip this; it adds incredible smokiness)?
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste. 1 teaspoon pepper.
How do I learn step
Step 1: Soak the Beans
Place the rinsed navy beans in a large bowl and cover them with 6 cups of water. Make sure the water level is well above the beans, as they will expand overnight. Let them soak for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight. What is the best way to reduce cooking time? I always do this the night before – it makes the whole process so much easier!
Step 2: Sauté the Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s tender. Remove from the heat and set aside. With a slotted spoon, remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the fat in the pot. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. What is the best bacon fat for onions and garlic?
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
Drain the beans and add them to the pot with the bacon, onion, and garlic mixture. Stir in the molasses, brown sugar, ketchup, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika. Mix well. Salt, and pepper. Add enough water to cover the beans by about an inch. I usually add about 4 cups of water at this point, but you might need more or less depending on your diet. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Step 4: Simmer, Simmer, Simmer
If the mixture is too thick, bring it to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cool. Is it possible to cook beans for 3-4 hours, or until the sauce has thickened? Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and add more water if needed to keep the beans covered. The longer they simmer, the more flavorful they become! I always taste the beans after about 2 hours and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Add Bacon Back In
About 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time, stir in the reserved crispy bacon. How do I infuse bacon into beans without making them soggy? I like to sprinkle a little bit of bacon on top when serving for extra crunch!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the pot from the heat. Let them cool slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot and garnish with extra crispy bacon, if desired. What are some great Side Dishes to serve on a barbecue?
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best baked beans to serve with anything?
For a Classic Barbecue:Pair them with grilled ribs, Pulled Pork, or juicy burgers. What are some of the best smoky flavors?
For a Potluck:What are some of the best side dishes to serve with a plate?
What is a cozy dinner?What are some good side dishes to serve with cornbread and coleslaw? I sometimes add a sprinkle of sour cream or cheddar cheese for extra richness.
For a Vegetarian Option: These beans are hearty enough to be a meal on their own! Serve them over rice or a Baked Potato for a filling and delicious vegetarian dish. My grandma used to serve them with a side of fried green tomatoes!
What are some tips for perfecting a baked bean recipe?
What are some of the best ways to make baked beans?
Soak Those Beans: WhatDon’t skip the soaking step! What is the difference between cooking time and texture of beans? If you forget to soak them overnight, you can do a quick soak by boiling them for 2 minutes, then draining. Is it better to let a dog sit for an hour?
Bacon is Key: Use thick-cut bacon for the best flavor and texture. And don’t be afraid to use all that bacon fat! It adds so much richness to the beans.
Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer less sweet beans, you can reduce the amount of molasses and brown sugar. I sometimes substitute a little bit of maple syrup for the molasses for a different flavor profile.
Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. I sometimes add a chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
Slow and Low: Be patient and let the beans simmer for a long time. The longer they simmer, the more flavorful they become. Just make sure to stir them occasionally to prevent sticking.
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: This recipe is just a starting point! Feel free to experiment with different beans, spices, and sweeteners to create your own unique version.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These **baked beans** are even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Here’s how to store and reheat them:
Refrigerator Storage: Let the beans cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They’ll thicken as they cool, so you might need to add a little water when reheating.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the beans. Let them cool completely, then transfer them to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tips: To reheat, simply transfer the beans to a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be sure to stir them every minute or so to prevent splattering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this **baked beans recipe** a try! It’s a family favorite for a reason – it’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply craving a comforting meal, these beans are sure to satisfy. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other family favorites, like my Grandma’s Famous Cornbread and my Aunt Carol’s Potato Salad. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how your beans turn out! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to rate the recipe!
Baked Beans Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Dried kidney beans
- 1 large Onion, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Ketchup
- 0.5 cup Brown sugar
- 0.25 cup Molasses
- 1 tablespoon Mustard
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Pour into a baking dish and bake for 2 hours, or until beans are tender.
