Easy Baked Beans Recipe Highlights
Oh my word, I never knew homemade baked beans could be this good. Of course, I like the canned version, but this Easy Baked Beans really takes the flavors to another level. They are sweet, savory, smoky, tangy, and creamy. I am planning to make these lush and crowd-pleasing Easy Baked Beans all summer long.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Recipe
No need to soak the beans (if using canned beans). Ready in a fraction of the time. Full of flavor. No need to heat the whole house to cook the dried beans for hours upon hours. Perfect for your next BBQ or potluck.
What are Baked Beans?
Baked beans are a classic and popular dish enjoyed by many people around the world. They are made by cooking beans, usually navy beans or haricot beans, in a sauce made with ingredients like tomatoes, molasses, sugar, and spices. The dish is called “baked beans” because traditionally, it was prepared by baking the beans in the oven for several hours.
How Do Baked Beans Taste Like?
Baked beans have a rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavor. The sauce is typically thick and coats the beans, giving them a delicious and hearty taste. The exact recipe and flavor profile can vary depending on the region and personal preferences. For example, American-style baked beans often have a smoky or barbecue flavor, while British-style baked beans have a sweeter taste.
That being said, other types of beans can also be used in American baked beans depending on personal preference and regional variations. Some recipes may include other varieties, such as kidney beans, pinto beans, or Great Northern beans. These beans can add different textures and flavors to the dish, but navy beans remain the traditional choice. I like to mix different kinds to add more texture and flavor. Beans such as kidney beans have much firmer skin than those pinto or navy beans, which are creamier.
Oil: Vegetable or canola oil – Or any light-tasting oil of your preference. Smoked bone-in pork chops: For an extra smoky layer of flavor! You can use 8 oz of bacon instead of smoked pork chops. Veggies: You’ll need onion, green bell pepper, and garlic. Beans: I used Pinto beans, Navy beans, Great Northern beans, and Kidney beans. You can use most types of beans of your preference. I like to mix different kinds to add more texture and flavor. Beans such as kidney beans have much firmer skin than those pinto or navy beans, which are creamier. Ketchup Molasses Chicken stock: Homemade or store-bought. Yellow mustard Worcestershire sauce Black Pepper Brown Sugar
Make-Ahead: You can make these up to 1 or 2 days ahead of time and simply reheat them before serving. How to Reheat: Add the desired amount to a small saucepot and heat over low heat until warmed. You can also heat it in the microwave.
Recipe Card 📖
