10 Baked Beans
A hearty baked beans dish featuring tender navy beans in a tangy, sweet, and smoky tomato-based sauce with ham, perfect for casual family meals or outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the navy beans overnight and then cook until tender.
- Add the remaining ingredients, including tomatoes, catsup, sugars, ham, vinegar, salt, cayenne pepper, and mustard, to the cooked beans.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use high-quality diced tomatoes or even fresh tomatoes when in season. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider substituting turkey ham or leaving out the meat entirely for a vegetarian version. A dash of smoked paprika can also enhance the dish's flavor profile. Adjust the sugar based on your preferred sweetness level, or try maple syrup for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These baked beans are perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues, pairing wonderfully with grilled meats or hamburgers. They can also be served over toast for a hearty breakfast option, reminiscent of George'S Favorite Breakfast. Consider complementing them with a fresh salad or cornbread for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also add a splash of water to loosen the mixture if it thickens too much when cooled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 10 Baked Beans contains roughly 196 calories, with 4g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 776mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beans instead of dried navy beans?
Yes, you can use canned navy beans to save time. Simply rinse and drain them, then skip the soaking and cooking steps. Add them to the pot with the other ingredients and simmer until heated through, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
How can I make these baked beans spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix. Experimenting with different spices can also yield interesting results. Just be sure to taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
Can I freeze baked beans?
Absolutely! Baked beans freeze well. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).