Baked Beans Recipe
Baked beans are a classic comfort food that many people love to enjoy at barbecues, with breakfast, or as a hearty side dish. A baked beans recipe is easy to make and only requires a few basic ingredients. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced home chef, this recipe will show you how to create a delicious dish that’s both satisfying and tasty. This simple baked beans recipe uses canned beans, bacon, and a flavorful sauce, making it quick and accessible for anyone to prepare.
In this recipe, you will learn the step-by-step process of making a tasty homemade version of baked beans. You can enjoy these beans on their own or serve them alongside grilled meats, sausages, or a sunny-side-up egg for a fulfilling meal. Let’s dive into the details and make baked beans a dish you will want to serve at every gathering!
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves comfort food but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful, hearty dish that will satisfy your hunger and taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, these baked beans are sure to be a hit. Enjoy your delicious homemade beans today!
Baked Beans Recipe
Description
This baked beans recipe is rich in flavor, with beans in a dark, savory sauce and crispy bacon bits. It's simple, hearty, and perfect for a solo serving or a small meal. The bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor, while the sauce creates a rich texture that complements the beans.
Ingredients for Baked Beans Recipe
Instructions for Baked Beans Recipe
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Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by heating a small skillet over medium heat. Add the slices of bacon and cook them until they become crispy, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure that the bacon cooks evenly. Once the bacon is crispy and golden brown, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet. Set the bacon aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess fat. Don't discard the bacon grease in the skillet, as it will add flavor to the sauce in the next step.
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Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, leaving the bacon grease behind, add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Stir it in and let it melt for about a minute over medium heat. Next, add 1 tablespoon of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon of mustard. Stir these ingredients together until they form a thick, dark sauce. You should see the sugar melt into the liquid, giving it a glossy texture. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and mix it into the sauce for an added depth of flavor. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes so that the flavors can meld together.
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Step 3: Add the Beans
Once the sauce is well-mixed and aromatic, it’s time to add the canned baked beans. Open your can of baked beans and drain any excess liquid (you want the beans to be thick). Stir the beans into the sauce and coat them well. Let the beans cook in the sauce for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The beans should absorb the flavors of the sauce and become heated through. You can also add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste if desired. Keep an eye on the consistency; if the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water to loosen it up.
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Step 4: Combine the Bacon and Serve
Finally, add the crispy bacon bits back into the skillet once the beans are heated and the sauce is well combined. Stir to incorporate the bacon throughout the beans. Let the beans sit for a minute or two so the bacon can absorb the flavors of the sauce. After that, taste the beans and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once everything is well mixed, serve the baked beans in a bowl, and enjoy! These beans are perfect alone or as a side dish for other meals.
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 300kcal
- Calories from Fat 150kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 16g25%
- Saturated Fat 5g25%
- Cholesterol 20mg7%
- Sodium 550mg23%
- Potassium 400mg12%
- Total Carbohydrate 32g11%
- Dietary Fiber 6g24%
- Sugars 14g
- Protein 12g24%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Bean Options: You can use canned beans for this recipe, but navy beans or kidney beans are the most common choices. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply skip the bacon.
- Vegan Option: For vegans, you can substitute the bacon with tempeh or a plant-based bacon alternative. Use vegetable oil instead of bacon grease to sauté the other ingredients.
- Storage: Leftover baked beans can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your baked beans as a side dish with grilled sausages, BBQ meats, or a slice of cornbread for a comforting meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use dried beans, but they require extra cooking time. Soak them overnight and cook them until tender before proceeding with the recipe.
If you like spicy food, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili pepper to the sauce. Alternatively, a dash of hot sauce or some smoked paprika can give the dish a nice kick.
Yes! Baked beans often taste even better the next day once the flavors have had time to develop. You can make this recipe in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat before serving.
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you're looking for a leaner version. It will still provide a nice smoky flavor, although the texture may be slightly different from traditional bacon.
