Apple Baked Beans
Sweet and savory baked beans with tender apples and warm spices, perfect for cozy family dinners or potlucks that crave comforting, flavorful dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, melt the butter.
- Add cubed apples and cook until tender.
- Add brown sugar and white sugar; stir and cook until the sugars are melted.
- Stir in cinnamon, catsup, molasses, and salt.
- Add the beans and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole.
- Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes.
- Reduce the temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using different types of beans or adding diced bacon for extra flavor. If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the brown sugar or add a touch of maple syrup. You can also substitute the cooking apples with tart varieties like Granny Smith for a more balanced flavor. Ensure the apples are soft before adding the sugars for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or a simple green salad to balance the sweetness. Consider serving it alongside Lime-Lemon Salad for a refreshing contrast. It also makes a hearty side for grilled meats or a vegetarian main when served with rice or quinoa to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil, warming in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Baked Beans contains roughly 881 calories, with 2g protein, 206g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 523mg per serving (23% 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 jarred?
Yes, you can use canned Great Northern beans. Just drain and rinse them before adding to the recipe. This will save time and still yield a delicious dish.
What can I do if it's too sweet?
If you find the dish too sweet, try adding a bit more salt or a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors. You can also mix in some diced tomatoes or bell peppers to offset the sweetness.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat. It's a hearty option for those following vegetarian recipes, making it a great choice for gatherings or potlucks.
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).