5 Bean Baked Beans
A hearty, flavorful baked bean dish combining multiple beans, crispy bacon, sweet brown sugar, and tangy vinegar, perfect for family gatherings or casual cookouts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain and rinse all canned beans and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the raw bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Chop the cooked bacon into small pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the beans, chopped bacon, brown sugar, mustard, chopped onion, and vinegar.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour or until bubbly and heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional bacon if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider including a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or omit it entirely. You can also use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile. Ensure to adjust the vinegar based on your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these hearty baked beans alongside grilled meats, cornbread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. They are a fantastic side for summer barbecues or potlucks. For an extra touch, top with crispy bacon bits before serving, or pair with the Old Time Layered Garden Casserole for a delightful family meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot. If the beans seem dry, add a splash of water or broth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 5 Bean Baked Beans contains roughly 825 calories, with 31g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (98% of the Daily Value), protein (62% of the Daily Value), and iron (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 27g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but they will need to be soaked and cooked prior to adding them to the recipe. Make sure to follow the appropriate soaking and cooking instructions for the beans to ensure they are tender and properly cooked before mixing them into the baked bean dish.
How can I make these beans spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a teaspoon of chili powder into the mixture. Adjust the amount according to your heat tolerance. You could also serve with a spicy barbecue sauce on the side for those who want to kick up the spice level.
Can I freeze the baked beans?
Absolutely! Allow the baked beans to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot throughout.
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).