What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade baked beans recipe is perfect for anyone who loves comfort food with a twist of flavor. You’ll enjoy how easy it is to make and how much better it tastes than the store-bought version. First, it’s packed with smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that hit all the right notes. Second, it’s made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. To conclude, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with everything from toast to grilled meats.
Recipe
Homemade baked beans are a comforting and classic dish, perfect for any occasion. This recipe delivers rich, flavorful beans with a hint of sweetness and smokiness, made entirely from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) dried navy beans or great northern beans
- 6 cups water (for soaking)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- Soak the beans overnight in 6 cups of water. Drain and rinse before using.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in molasses, brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, pepper, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the soaked beans and vegetable broth (or water) to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Cover the pot and bake in the preheated oven for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally during baking.
- Remove from the oven and let sit for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes:
For a smokier flavor, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke or substitute bacon for olive oil.
Equipment:
Large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, measuring cups, and spoons.
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes (plus overnight soaking)
Cooking time: 3 hours
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 6-8
Nutrition
This homemade baked beans recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 480mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade baked beans with grilled meats like smoky ribs or juicy chicken for a hearty meal. A crisp, fresh salad, maybe one with crunchy lettuce and tangy tomatoes, adds a nice balance to the plate. These combinations make the whole meal feel satisfying and complete.
Grilled Meat Options
When making homemade baked beans, I always think about what grilled meats’ll pair perfectly with them—it’s like finding the right partner for a dance. Personally, I love serving them with smoky grilled sausages, like bratwurst or andouille, because their rich flavors complement the beans’ sweetness. Grilled chicken, especially with a bit of char, is another favorite—it’s lighter but still satisfying. For a classic combo, I go with juicy burgers or ribs slathered in barbecue sauce. Sometimes, I even grill up a steak; the savory, smoky taste makes it feel extra special. Each option turns a simple side into a complete, mouthwatering meal.
Fresh Salad Ideas
Pairing homemade baked beans with fresh salads can add a burst of brightness to your meal, balancing out the rich, savory flavors. I love tossing together a crisp green salad with mixed lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado—it’s simple but always hits the spot. Sometimes, I go for a tangy coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a zesty dressing to cut through the beans’ richness. A Mediterranean-style salad with feta, olives, and bell peppers also works wonders. These salads not only add color to your plate but make the meal feel lighter and more complete.
