If you’re looking for a delicious side dish or a meal that’s comforting, look no further than this baked beans recipe. The rich, savory flavors of this baked beans recipe make it the perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or barbecues. The best part? This baked beans recipe is easy to prepare with pantry staples and delivers a rich, comforting taste every time. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick dish, this baked beans recipe will always be a winner.
Ingredients :
Ingredients for the Hearty Baked Beans Recipe :
- 2 cans of navy beans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1/4 cup chopped onions
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup cooked ground beef
Execution :
Step-by-Step Method for the Hearty Baked Beans Recipe :
- Prepare the beef: In a medium-sized skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Break the meat apart with a spoon while it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- Preheat your oven: While the beef is cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your oven is ready for baking once everything is assembled.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the navy beans, brown sugar, molasses, ketchup, mustard, chopped onions, salt, pepper, and the cooked beef. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all the ingredients are well distributed. The brown sugar and molasses will create a sweet and rich base, while the ketchup and mustard add tangy flavors.
- Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, making sure to spread it evenly. This ensures that the beans and beef cook uniformly, absorbing the flavors.
- Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Let it bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour. During the baking process, stir the beans every 15 minutes to ensure that the flavors blend well and the dish doesn’t dry out. Removing the cover in the last 15 minutes will allow the top to caramelize slightly, adding an extra layer of flavor.
- Rest before serving: Once fully cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and ensures a perfect texture when dishing up.
Tips :
For the Best Hearty Baked Beans Recipe :
- Use ground beef: While traditional recipes might call for pork, substituting with ground beef adds a robust flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the beans and molasses. Make sure to cook and drain the beef properly to avoid excess fat in the dish.
- Stir regularly: Stirring the beans every 15 minutes while baking ensures the sauce thickens evenly, preventing the beans at the bottom from becoming too mushy or dry.
- Molasses matters: Using molasses in this recipe adds depth and a rich sweetness that is signature to baked beans. If you prefer a slightly less sweet taste, reduce the molasses by half and compensate with a bit more mustard for tanginess.
- Cooking time adjustments: If you like thicker beans, consider baking uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes. If you prefer them saucier, reduce the uncovered baking time.
FAQs :
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, omit the beef and use vegetarian-friendly alternatives such as plant-based meat crumbles or add more beans for extra heartiness. You could also use tofu or tempeh for added protein without compromising the flavors.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the baked beans a day or two in advance and reheat them before serving. In fact, the flavors often meld better if made ahead. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container and reheat in the oven at 300°F for 20 minutes before serving.
- Can I freeze baked beans? Yes, baked beans freeze well for up to three months. Make sure they are completely cool before transferring to an airtight container for freezing. To reheat, let the beans thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in the oven or on the stovetop over low heat.
- What can I pair this dish with? Baked beans are incredibly versatile! They pair beautifully with grilled meats such as chicken or beef. For vegetarian options, serve with cornbread or alongside a mixed green salad. You can also enjoy them as a topping for baked potatoes.
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