baked beans recipe from scratch

An Easy and Delicious Way to Enjoy Baked Beans

Hey guys! Are you craving a hearty and flavorful dish? Look no further than these seven amazing baked beans recipes from scratch. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply want a comforting meal, these recipes will satisfy your taste buds. With a variety of flavors and ingredients, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Introduction

Baked beans are a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Made with navy beans, a rich tomato base, and a perfect blend of spices, they are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The best part? You can make them from scratch, allowing you to customize the recipe to your liking and omitting any unnecessary additives found in canned versions. In this article, we will explore seven different baked beans recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends.

Recipe #1: Smoky Bacon Baked Beans

🥓 Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food! These smoky bacon baked beans are a crowd favorite. The combination of crispy bacon, brown sugar, and tangy barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that will leave you wanting more. Follow these simple steps to bring this recipe to life:

  1. Cook six slices of bacon until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  2. In the same pan, sauté one diced onion and two minced garlic cloves until translucent.
  3. Add two cans of navy beans (drained and rinsed), a cup of barbecue sauce, a tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and a quarter cup of brown sugar.
  4. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Finally, crumble the cooked bacon and sprinkle it on top before serving.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion and pairs well with grilled meats or as a standalone dish. The smoky aroma and savory flavors will have your guests coming back for seconds!

Recipe #2: Vegetarian Baked Beans

🌱 For all the vegetarians out there, this recipe is for you! These vegetarian baked beans are just as delicious and satisfying as their meaty counterparts. Packed with protein and fiber, they make a healthy and filling meal. Follow these steps to enjoy this vegetarian delight:

  1. Start by soaking two cups of dried navy beans overnight. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pot, sauté one diced onion and two minced garlic cloves until fragrant.
  3. Add the soaked navy beans, four cups of vegetable broth, a can of diced tomatoes, a tablespoon of tomato paste, and a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about two hours until the beans are tender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

These vegetarian baked beans are not only delicious but also a great source of nutrients. They pair well with a fresh salad or crusty bread, making them a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Recipe #3: Maple and Mustard Baked Beans

🍁 Looking for a unique twist on the classic baked beans recipe? Try these maple and mustard baked beans! The combination of sweet maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing. Here’s how to make this mouthwatering dish:

  1. In a large bowl, combine two cans of navy beans (drained and rinsed), a cup of ketchup, half a cup of maple syrup, two tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce.
  2. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  4. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

The sweet and tangy flavors of these maple and mustard baked beans are a delightful addition to any meal. Serve them alongside grilled sausages or as a side dish at your next brunch gathering. Your guests will be pleasantly surprised!

Recipe #4: Spicy Chipotle Baked Beans

🌶️ If you’re a fan of bold and fiery flavors, these spicy chipotle baked beans are a must-try! Packed with smoky chipotle peppers, these beans will add a kick to any dish. Follow these steps to enjoy this spicy sensation:

  1. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Sauté one diced onion, three minced garlic cloves, and two finely chopped chipotle peppers until the onions are translucent.
  3. Add two cans of navy beans (drained and rinsed), a cup of tomato sauce, a tablespoon of brown sugar, and a teaspoon of cumin.
  4. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Adjust the spiciness level by adding more chipotle peppers if desired.

These spicy chipotle baked beans are perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals. They pair well with grilled chicken or as a topping for nachos. Warning: they may be addictive!

Recipe #5: Honey and Molasses Baked Beans

🍯 For a touch of sweetness, try these honey and molasses baked beans. The combination of honey, molasses, and tangy flavors creates a harmonious balance that will leave you wanting more. Here’s how to make this delightful dish:

  1. In a Dutch oven, combine two cans of navy beans (drained and rinsed), half a cup of ketchup, a quarter cup of honey, a quarter cup of molasses, two tablespoons of brown sugar, and a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.
  2. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
  3. Cover the Dutch oven and bake at 325°F (165°C) for two hours, stirring occasionally.
  4. Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes until the sauce thickens.

The sweet and savory flavors of these honey and molasses baked beans are simply irresistible. Serve them alongside grilled ribs or as a side dish at your next summer cookout.

Recipe #6: Bourbon and Brown Sugar Baked Beans

🥃 If you’re looking to add a touch of sophistication and richness to your baked beans, this recipe is for you. These bourbon and brown sugar baked beans are a flavorful indulgence that will impress your guests. Here’s how to make this elegant dish:

  1. In a large skillet, cook six slices of bacon until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, sauté one diced onion and three minced garlic cloves until fragrant.
  3. Add two cans of navy beans (drained and rinsed), a cup of ketchup, a quarter cup of bourbon, two tablespoons of brown sugar, and a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
  4. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Finally, crumble the cooked bacon and sprinkle it on top before serving.

These bourbon and brown sugar baked beans are the perfect addition to a fancy dinner party or a holiday feast. Their complex flavors and luscious texture will elevate any meal to new heights.

Recipe #7: Mexican-Inspired Baked Beans

🌮 Spice up your dinner table with these Mexican-inspired baked beans. Bursting with flavors from south of the border, these beans will transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico. Here’s how to make this fiesta in a dish:

  1. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.
  2. Sauté one diced onion and two minced garlic cloves until fragrant.
  3. Add two cans of navy beans (drained and rinsed), a cup of salsa, a teaspoon of chili powder, half a teaspoon of cumin, and a quarter teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
  4. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

These Mexican-inspired baked beans are the perfect accompaniment to your favorite tacos or enchiladas. The zesty flavors and vibrant colors will bring a festive touch to any meal.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Baked Beans Recipe from Scratch

Advantages

1. Customizable Ingredients

✅ When you make baked beans from scratch, you have full control over the ingredients used. You can choose organic beans, locally sourced vegetables, and quality spices, ensuring a healthier and tastier dish. By customizing the recipe, you can also cater to dietary restrictions or preferences, making it suitable for everyone at the table.

2. No Unnecessary Additives

✅ Canned baked beans often contain additives, preservatives, and high levels of sodium. With a homemade recipe, you can eliminate these unnecessary additives and have full control over the seasoning. This allows you to create a healthier version that suits your taste and dietary needs.

3. Richer Flavor

✅ Making baked beans from scratch allows you to develop a richer and more complex flavor profile. By simmering the beans with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and spices, you can enhance the taste and create a dish that is bursting with deliciousness.

4. Cost-Effective

✅ Buying canned baked beans can add up, especially if you frequently consume this dish. Making it from scratch allows you to save money by using affordable ingredients in bulk. Additionally, you can make a large batch and freeze the leftovers for future meals, further stretching your dollar.

5. Cooking Experience and Creativity

✅ Preparing baked beans from scratch offers a chance to enhance your cooking skills and explore your creativity in the kitchen. You can experiment with different flavor combinations, adapt the recipe to your liking, and even create your signature twist on this classic dish.

6. A Comforting and Versatile Dish

✅ Baked beans are a comforting and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various settings. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply craving a cozy meal at home, baked beans are a delicious option that will satisfy your taste buds.

7. Nutritional Benefits

✅ Navy beans, the main ingredient in baked beans, are an excellent source of fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. They promote healthy digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, and support overall well-being. By incorporating baked beans into your diet, you can enjoy their nutritional benefits and contribute to a balanced and wholesome lifestyle.

Disadvantages

1. Time-Consuming Preparation

❌ Making baked beans from scratch requires time and patience. The process involves soaking and cooking the beans, sautéing the vegetables, and allowing the flavors to meld together. If you’re short on time, canned baked beans might be a more convenient option.

2. Long Cooking Time

❌ Cooking baked beans from scratch can be a lengthy process. The beans need to simmer for hours until they reach the desired tenderness and the flavors fully develop. This extended cooking time might not be suitable for those who want a quick and easy meal.

3. Skill and Experience Required

❌ Achieving the perfect balance of flavors in baked beans requires some culinary experience and knowledge. It takes practice to determine the right amount of seasoning and cooking time. Beginners might struggle initially, but with time and practice, they can master the art of making delicious baked beans from scratch.

4. Ingredient Availability

❌ Depending on your location, some ingredients may be hard to find or not readily available. Certain spices, specialty beans, or regional flavors might be challenging to source, limiting your ability to fully embrace the diverse world of baked beans recipes from scratch.

5. Storage and Shelf Life

❌ Homemade baked beans need proper storage to maintain their freshness and taste. If not stored correctly, they can spoil quickly and lead to food wastage. Additionally, homemade baked beans have a shorter shelf life compared to canned versions, which often have preservatives to prolong their freshness.

6. Need for Planning Ahead

❌ Making baked beans from scratch requires planning ahead, as the beans need to be soaked overnight before cooking. This might not be suitable for those who prefer spontaneous cooking or have limited time for meal preparation.

7. Personal Taste Preferences

❌ Baked beans can be a divisive dish due to personal taste preferences. While some prefer a sweeter and tangier flavor, others might enjoy a spicier or smokier taste. When making baked beans from scratch, it’s important to consider individual preferences to ensure the dish is enjoyed by everyone.

Baked Beans Recipe from Scratch: Complete Information Table

Recipe Name Main Ingredients Preparation Time Cooking Time Serving Size
Smoky Bacon Baked Beans Bacon, onion, garlic, navy beans, barbecue sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar 15 minutes 30 minutes 4-6 servings
Vegetarian Baked Beans Onion, garlic, navy beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, smoked paprika 15 minutes (plus soaking time) 2 hours 4-6 servings
Maple and Mustard Baked Beans Navy beans, ketchup, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce 10 minutes 45 minutes 4-6 servings
Spicy Chipotle Baked Beans Onion, garlic, navy beans, tomato sauce, brown sugar, cumin, chipotle peppers 10 minutes 30 minutes 4-6 servings
Honey and Molasses Baked Beans Navy beans, ketchup, honey, molasses, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar 10 minutes 2.5 hours 4-6 servings
Bourbon and Brown Sugar Baked Beans Bacon, onion, garlic, navy beans, ketchup, bourbon, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce 15 minutes 30 minutes

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