6 Easy Baked Beans Recipe Ideas for Every Meal

Imagine having a delicious baked beans recipe ready anytime. It makes 18 servings and is ready in just 25 minutes. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, baked beans fit the bill. You can make them sweet, sour, BBQ, or even vegetarian.

There are endless ways to enjoy baked beans. Try them on toasties or in a shepherd’s pie. Web sources like Taste of Home offer many recipes. So, why not make homemade baked beans and find a new favorite?

Understanding the Versatility of Baked Beans

Baked beans are a versatile dish that can be made in many ways. You can make vegetarian baked beans and slow cooker baked beans. They are packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them a nutritious choice.

To make the perfect baked beans, you need the right tools. A slow cooker, oven, or stovetop are essential. These tools help in achieving the best flavor and texture.

When searching for the best baked beans recipe, think about the ingredients and how you cook them. Some recipes use canned beans, while others start with dried beans. The choice affects the taste and texture of the dish.

Here are some benefits of baked beans:

  • Rich in protein and fiber
  • Can be made in a variety of ways, including slow cooker baked beans and vegetarian baked beans
  • Can be served as a side dish or used as an ingredient in other recipes

Baked beans are not only versatile but also nutritious and tasty. With the right recipe and ingredients, you can make a dish that’s both healthy and flavorful.

RecipeCooking MethodIngredients
Best Baked Beans RecipeSlow CookerCanned beans, ground beef, smoked sausage, onion, bell pepper, bacon, maple syrup, brown sugar
Vegetarian Baked BeansOvenCanned beans, onion, bell pepper, tomato sauce, brown sugar, spices

The Perfect Basic Baked Beans Recipe

Traditional baked beans are a must-have in every kitchen. The Pioneer Woman shows how to make BBQ baked beans from scratch. You’ll need pork and beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and bacon.

To start, you’ll need 1.5 pounds of ground beef and 2 (16 oz) cans of pork and beans. The sauce is key, made with ½ cup each of barbecue sauce and ketchup. You’ll also need 2 tablespoons of spicy brown mustard and 4 tablespoons of brown sugar.

The baking dish is a standard 9×13 inches. Bake covered at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 40-45 minutes. Then, bake uncovered for 10 minutes.

Here is a summary of the nutritional information per serving:

NutrientAmount
Calories385 kcal
Carbohydrates38 g
Protein8 g
Fat23 g

Follow this basic recipe to make baked beans from scratch. Adjust the ingredients to your liking. This dish is great for any meal, whether traditional or BBQ baked beans.

Essential Ingredients for Homemade Baked Beans

To make delicious homemade baked beans, you need the right ingredients. The type of beans, seasoning, and sauce base are key. For a classic baked beans recipe, navy beans or Great Northern beans work well. Soaking the beans overnight can cut down cooking time.

Seasoning is important. Use salt, black pepper, and dry mustard powder. For extra flavor, add easy baked beans ingredients like chopped onion, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. The sauce base is a mix of ketchup, molasses, and brown sugar.

Here are some essential ingredients for homemade baked beans:

  • 1 cup dried navy beans or 2 cans of Great Northern beans
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • ¼ cup molasses
  • ¾ cup BBQ sauce
  • ⅓ cup light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Using these ingredients and a simple baked beans recipe, you can make a tasty dish. Whether you like easy baked beans or something more complex, quality ingredients and tender beans are key.

IngredientQuantity
Navy beans1 cup dried
Great Northern beans2 cans (15.5 oz each)
Diced onion1 cup
Molasses¼ cup

Breakfast Baked Beans with Eggs and Toast

Starting your day with a delicious breakfast baked beans recipe can really boost your energy. Taste of Home says you can make baked beans for breakfast with eggs and toast. This breakfast baked beans recipe is a twist on the classic baked beans recipe, perfect for mornings.

To make this easy baked beans recipe, you’ll need a few simple things. You’ll need 2 (22 ounce) cans of baked beans, 2 slices of bacon, and 2 eggs. It takes about 30 to 35 minutes in the oven. You can serve it with toast, making it a great meal for a family. It’s a hit, with a 4.99 out of 5 stars rating from 3,709 votes.

Here are some key ingredients and cooking times for this breakfast baked beans recipe:

  • 2 (22 ounce) cans of baked beans
  • 2 slices of bacon
  • 2 eggs
  • 30 to 35 minutes cooking time in the oven

This baked beans recipe is not only tasty but also easy to make. It’s a great addition to your breakfast menu. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s perfect for a busy morning. So why not try this easy baked beans recipe and start your day off right?

IngredientQuantity
Baked beans2 (22 ounce) cans
Bacon2 slices
Eggs2

Slow Cooker BBQ Baked Beans for Lunch

Slow cooker BBQ baked beans are a tasty and simple lunch option. You can make them in the morning and they’ll be ready when you are. You’ll need canned baked beans, barbecue sauce, and bacon to start.

To make these beans, start by browning the bacon and cooking the onion. Then, mix all the ingredients together. Put everything in the slow cooker and let it cook. Cooking time varies, but it’s about 3-4 hours on high or 5-6 hours on low.

Preparation Steps

Begin by cooking the bacon until it’s crispy. Then, cook the onion until it’s soft. Next, add barbecue sauce, yellow mustard, and brown sugar to the pan. Stir well, then add the canned baked beans. Finally, transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Cooking Time Guidelines

Cooking time is key for slow cooker BBQ baked beans. Cooking on low takes 5-6 hours, while high takes 3-4 hours. You can also cook them on low overnight for a ready-to-eat meal in the morning.

Serving Suggestions

Slow cooker BBQ baked beans are versatile. Serve them as a side dish or add them to hot dogs or grilled chicken. They’re also great on baked potatoes or in sandwiches. Slow cooker BBQ baked beans are a delicious and easy lunch option.

Slow cooker baked beans are a quick and easy meal. They’re perfect for lunch or dinner and can be made with bacon, onion, and barbecue sauce. Whether you cook on low or high, slow cooker BBQ baked beans are a tasty and convenient meal choice.

Vegetarian Baked Beans with Mixed Vegetables

There are countless ways to enjoy vegetarian baked beans. You can whip up a tasty and nutritious baked beans recipe with mixed veggies. This easy baked beans recipe is great for a quick, fulfilling meal.

To make vegetarian baked beans, soak the beans overnight first. Then, cook them with your favorite mixed veggies. This recipe takes 20 minutes to prepare and 1 hour 5 minutes to cook.

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional info for this baked beans recipe:

NutrientPer Serving
Calories336 kcal
Carbohydrates61 g
Protein11 g
Total Fat7 g

This easy baked beans recipe yields 5-6 servings. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for 2 weeks.

vegetarian baked beans

Traditional Boston-Style Baked Beans from Scratch

To make Boston-style baked beans, you need to know the history and ingredients. This dish is a classic in America, loved at many events. It uses navy beans, bacon, and a sweet sauce with molasses and spices.

For great baked beans, use top-notch ingredients and slow cooking. This way, the flavors blend well and the beans become tender. You’ll need navy beans, bacon, onion, garlic, molasses, brown sugar, and spices.

Historical Background

Boston-style baked beans have a long history in America. They were made with beans, salt pork, and molasses, common in New England. Over time, brown sugar and spices were added, but the core stayed the same.

Authentic Ingredients

To make real Boston-style baked beans, you need specific ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Navy beans
  • Bacon or salt pork
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Molasses
  • Brown sugar
  • Spices, such as ground cloves and mustard

Step-by-Step Process

Making Boston-style baked beans from scratch takes time but is worth it. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Soak navy beans overnight and cook them until tender.
  2. Cook bacon or salt pork until crispy, then chop it.
  3. Saute onion and garlic until soft, then add molasses, brown sugar, and spices.
  4. Put cooked beans, bacon, and sauce in a large pot or dish.
  5. Cover and bake in a slow oven (about 250°F) for hours until the beans are tender and the sauce is thick.

By following this recipe and using authentic ingredients, you can make delicious Boston-style baked beans. This dish is great for holidays and family gatherings. It’s also perfect for freezing for later. Whether you love traditional baked beans or want to try something new, this dish will be a hit.

IngredientQuantity
Navy beans3 cups
Bacon or salt pork1 cup
Onion1 medium
Garlic3 cloves
Molasses1/3 cup
Brown sugar2 tablespoons

Quick Dinner Baked Beans with Cornbread

A classic baked beans recipe with cornbread is a quick and tasty dinner. It’s a favorite in American homes because it’s easy to make and loved by all. You’ll need a can of Original Baked Beans, ground beef, bacon, and spices for this dish.

The cornbread adds a nice texture and flavor to the baked beans. To make it, mix flour, cornmeal, eggs, and butter. You can also add cheese, jalapenos, or herbs to make it your own. This quick dinner is perfect for a busy weeknight.

30-Minute Preparation Guide

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Cook the ground beef and bacon in a skillet until browned. Then, add the canned baked beans and spices. Put the mixture in a baking dish and top with cornbread.

Bake for 30 minutes. The cornbread should be golden, and the beans should be hot and bubbly.

Cornbread Pairing Tips

The cornbread in this recipe is versatile. You can add cheese, jalapenos, or herbs to make it your own. Here are some ideas for pairing cornbread:

  • Hot dogs or hamburgers for a classic summer meal
  • Grilled chicken or steak for a heartier option
  • A simple green salad for a lighter side dish

With these tips and the simple recipe, you can make a delicious quick dinner. Try it out and see how easy it is to make a tasty baked beans recipe with cornbread!

baked beans recipe

IngredientQuantity
Ground Beef1 lb
Bacon1 lb
Canned Baked Beans44 oz
Cornmeal1 cup
Eggs2
Butter1/2 cup

Storage and Reheating Tips

Proper baked beans storage is key to keeping them safe and tasty. Leftover beans should go in the fridge within 2 hours to stop bacteria. The fridge should be at 40°F (4°C) or colder for best storage. For longer keeping, freezing guidelines suggest up to 6 months in the freezer.

For reheating tips, use your oven at 350°F (175°C). Reheat for 10-30 minutes, depending on how much you have. Make sure they reach 165°F (74°C) inside for safety. You can also reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, but follow the right steps to avoid burning.

  • Refrigerate leftover baked beans within 2 hours of cooking
  • Store baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days
  • Freeze baked beans for up to 6 months, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating
  • Reheat baked beans to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption
Storage MethodDurationTemperature
Refrigeration3-4 days40°F (4°C) or below
Freezingup to 6 months0°F (-18°C) or below

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Baked Beans

Making baked beans can be tricky. It’s easy to make mistakes that change the taste and texture. To avoid baked beans mistakes, it’s key to know how to cook and choose the right ingredients. Not soaking the beans long enough is a big mistake. It can make the beans hard or undercooked.

Choosing the right beans is also crucial. Beans like navy or kidney work best because they stay firm. Using the right beans and following baking tips can greatly improve your dish.

Here are some more tips to remember:

  • Soaking the beans in a 2% salt brine can cut down cooking time and make them better.
  • Don’t add vinegar or lemon juice too early. It can make the bean skins tough.
  • Don’t overcook the beans. It can make them mushy and unappetizing.

By following these baking tips and avoiding common baked beans mistakes, you can make tasty baked beans. Always use the best ingredients and cook the beans well for the best results.

baked beans mistakes

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Baked Beans Recipes

Baked beans recipes are full of possibilities for creativity. You can make classic Boston-style or try new flavors. By learning the basics and trying new things, you can make baked beans that you love.

Have fun and be creative with your baked beans recipes. Try new ingredients and cooking methods. Adjust the seasoning to your taste. With practice, you’ll make baked beans that everyone will love. So, explore and make baked beans a part of your cooking.

FAQ

What are the key nutritional benefits of baked beans?

Baked beans are packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals. They make any meal more nutritious and filling.

What are the essential kitchen tools needed to make baked beans?

To make baked beans, you’ll need a slow cooker, oven, or stovetop. Also, basic tools like a pot, spoon, and measuring cups are necessary.

What are the key ingredients in a basic baked beans recipe?

A basic recipe includes pork and beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and bacon. These ingredients give baked beans their unique flavor.

How do I choose the right beans for homemade baked beans?

For homemade baked beans, choose navy, pinto, or kidney beans. The type of bean affects the texture and taste.

How can I make baked beans for breakfast?

Baked beans are great for breakfast with eggs and toast. Just simmer the beans with extra seasonings and ingredients.

What are the steps to make slow cooker BBQ baked beans?

To make slow cooker BBQ baked beans, prepare the ingredients and put them in the slow cooker. Let them cook for hours until the flavors blend.

How can I make vegetarian baked beans?

For vegetarian baked beans, skip the pork and use mixed vegetables instead. A flavorful sauce base is key for the taste.

What is the traditional Boston-style baked beans recipe?

Boston-style baked beans use navy beans, molasses, and salt pork. The recipe has a specific process for the right texture and flavor.

How can I make quick dinner baked beans with cornbread?

Quick dinner baked beans with cornbread can be made in 30 minutes. Combine the beans with a cornbread recipe for a tasty meal.

How should I store and reheat leftover baked beans?

Store leftover baked beans in the right containers and freeze them properly. Use good reheating methods to keep them fresh and flavorful.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making baked beans?

Avoid using the wrong beans, overcooking, and not seasoning well. Attention to these details ensures perfect baked beans.

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