Baked Beans

Looking for side dish ideas? This baked bean recipe is exactly what you need. From the smokey bacon to the spicy paprika and the sticky brown sugar, these baked beans are full of flavor. Follow this simple recipe to success each and every time!

Whether you're feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy night in, these baked beans will hit the spot.

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

This baked beans recipe works on a variety of levels. It's an easy recipe to follow, it's an easy recipe to adapt, and these baked beans are versatile enough to work in a variety of settings.

Whether you are an expert in the kitchen or a novice home chef, this recipe makes it so easy for you to succeed. Taking you step by step through the process of creating your very own baked beans, novices can follow the recipe and those that want to take liberties are encouraged to.

These baked beans are full of flavor, from the smokey bacon to the sweet brown sugar. However delicious, this recipe may not be suitable for every taste preference or dietary requirement. Simply adapt the recipe where you want to make it work. Swap the bacon for mushrooms, green bell peppers, ham, or sausage. Try agave syrup, maple syrup, or honey in place of brown sugar. The options that you have to create your own secret baked bean recipe are endless.

Once you've mastered the art of baked beanery, you can bring this dish to almost any get-together or function and people will love it. From barbecues to potlucks and holiday dinners to birthday parties, this is one side dish that will not have any leftovers.

Ingredients

Bacon:

Adding high-quality bacon to your baked beans imparts a rich, smoky flavor. You can also use sausage or ham in addition to, or in place of, the bacon. If you want to make your baked beans vegan or vegetarian, you can simply omit the bacon altogether.

Onion and Garlic:

Onion and garlic are aromatics that add lots of flavor to the mix. If you don't have fresh onion and garlic, you can add some garlic powder and onion powder with the other seasonings to get the same flavors in your baked beans.

Seasonings:

Don't be afraid to experiment with spices like cayenne pepper, cumin, or chili powder to add depth and extra kick to your baked beans. Mustard powder, celery seed, and ground ginger can add complexity to the flavor profile of your baked beans.

Dijon Mustard:

A touch of Dijon mustard will provide a zesty kick to your baked beans, but feel free to choose any type of mustard that you enjoy and will complement the flavors of the dish.

Barbecue Sauce:

Use your favorite brand of premade barbecue sauce to save yourself some time and effort in the kitchen. You can also make a simple homemade barbecue sauce up pretty quickly, too, if you prefer. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup ketchup, ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon mustard, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, a pinch of cayenne, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer over low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Tomato Sauce:

Most baked bean recipes call for a tomato base. This recipe uses tomato sauce; however, you can also use ketchup to add a tangy element to the dish.

Brown Sugar:

While brown sugar is a common choice when making baked beans, consider experimenting with alternatives like maple syrup, molasses, agave syrup, or honey for a unique sweetness.

Beans:

You can use whatever beans you like to make your baked beans. While this recipe was made with canned beans in mind, you can absolutely use dried beans, too. Opt for dried navy beans or small white beans. They have a creamy texture and absorb flavors well. Simply soak the dried beans overnight in cold water to help soften them before adding them to this recipe.

How to Make Baked Beans

Step One: 

Add the chopped bacon to an oven-safe pan or pot over medium heat.

Step Two: 

Once the bacon starts to brown, add onion, tomato, and garlic. Stir to combine and cook until the onions turn soft and opaque.

Step Three: 

Add paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Step Four:

Add meat (beef or pork) and continue to cook until browned.

Step Five: 

Once the meat has browned, add your barbecue sauce, tomato sauce, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar to the mix. Stir to incorporate. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step Six: 

Add beans (22 oz. can), mix, bring to a simmer, and remove from heat.

Step Seven: 

Bake your beans at 400F for 30-35 minutes.

Step Eight: 

Top with fresh herbs, serve, and enjoy 🙂

Tips

• Monitor your baked beans to ensure there is enough liquid to keep the beans moist during the cooking process. You can add more tomato sauce, water, beef, or vegetable broth as needed.
• Taste the beans as they cook and adjust the sweetness and tanginess to suit your preference. This could mean adding more sugar, salt, or barbecue sauce.
• For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to give your baked beans a subtle heat.

What to Serve With Baked Beans

Baked beans are a versatile and comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve your baked beans with some cornbread and grilled chicken For a hearty meal that offers various textures. For a barbecue-themed feast, serve baked beans alongside pulled pork or brisket and some mashed potatoes. With this baked bean recipe, the possibilities for creative and delicious pairings are endless.

Looking for more ideas? Check out What To Serve With Baked Beans for 15 delicious side dishes.

FAQs

Can I make baked beans ahead of time?

Yes, baked beans often taste even better the next day as the flavors have had more time to meld. Reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

How can I make my baked beans thicker or thinner?

To thicken baked beans, cook them longer without a lid to allow excess liquid to evaporate. To thin them out, add water or broth gradually until you achieve the desired consistency.

How long can leftover baked beans be kept fresh?

Leftover baked beans can be kept fresh for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing them; properly stored, frozen baked beans can maintain quality for 2-3 months.

More Bean Recipes

Do you love a good bean recipe? They are tasty, healthy, and very fulfilling. Here is a collection of some of our favorite bean recipes to help inspire you in the kitchen.

Cannellini Beans

Refried Beans

Green Beans with Bacon

Instant Pot Lima Beans