Easy Ultimate Baked Beans

Short Description

These Easy Ultimate Baked Beans are a rich, smoky, and slightly sweet side dish that’s perfect for barbecues, potlucks, and family dinners. Made with a mix of canned beans, a tangy-sweet sauce, and optional crispy bacon, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and quick – Uses canned beans for convenience.
• Sweet, smoky, and savory – A perfect balance of flavors.
• Great for gatherings – A crowd-pleasing side dish for any occasion.
• Customizable – Make it vegetarian, spicy, or extra smoky.
• Perfect make-ahead dish – Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Canned baked beans (or navy beans)
• Onion (diced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Bacon (optional, for extra flavor)
• Brown sugar
• Ketchup
• Mustard (yellow or Dijon)
• Worcestershire sauce
• Apple cider vinegar
• Molasses (or maple syrup for a different sweetness)
• Smoked paprika
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Bacon and Onions – In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon until crispy (if using). Remove and set aside, then sauté the onions in the bacon grease until soft. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Mix the Sauce – Stir in brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, molasses, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Let simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Add the Beans – Pour in the canned beans and stir to coat them in the sauce. If using crispy bacon, crumble it in now.
5. Bake – Transfer to the oven and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, until thick and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy – Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Vegetarian Baked Beans – Skip the bacon and use a splash of liquid smoke for extra flavor.
• Spicy Version – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Maple Baked Beans – Swap molasses for maple syrup for a unique sweetness.
• Slow Cooker Option – Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours instead of baking.
• Thicker Beans – Simmer on the stovetop for an extra 10-15 minutes before baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze – Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat – Warm in a saucepan over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes! Cook 2 cups of dried navy beans beforehand and use them in place of canned beans.

Do I have to bake the beans, or can I just cook them on the stovetop?

You can cook them on the stovetop over low heat for 30 minutes, but baking deepens the flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Baked beans taste even better the next day. Simply reheat before serving.

What’s the best type of beans to use?

Navy beans, pinto beans, or a mix of different canned beans work well.

How can I make these beans extra smoky?

Use smoked paprika, add liquid smoke, or mix in diced smoked sausage.

Are these beans sweet?

Yes, they have a slight sweetness, but you can reduce the brown sugar or molasses if preferred.

Can I use barbecue sauce instead of ketchup?

Absolutely! Barbecue sauce adds extra depth and a smoky taste.

How do I make the beans thicker?

Bake them uncovered for longer or simmer on the stovetop to reduce excess liquid.

What pairs well with baked beans?

They’re perfect with grilled meats, burgers, hot dogs, cornbread, or coleslaw.

Can I make these beans in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sauté the onions and bacon, then cook everything under high pressure for 10 minutes and let it naturally release.

Conclusion

These Easy Ultimate Baked Beans are a must-have side dish for any gathering! With their perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Whether baked, slow-cooked, or stovetop-simmered, this dish is simple to make and full of homemade goodness. Try it today!

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