Baked Beans(For A Crowd)
Hearty baked beans with tender pork, molasses, and spices, perfect for feeding a crowd at gatherings or family dinners with rich, smoky flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the dry beans in a 4-gallon iron kettle.
- Cover the beans with water and boil for 10 minutes over hot flame, stirring constantly.
- Add more water as needed.
- Remove the kettle from the fire and add the pork, molasses, dry mustard, salt, and onion.
- Cover with a tightly fitting cast-iron lid and continue cooking as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, soak the beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve texture. If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider adding chopped bacon or smoked paprika. Adjust the sweetness by modifying the molasses to your taste. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the pork with mushrooms or tempeh for a hearty alternative that complements the beans without meat. This dish can also be enhanced with spices like cumin or chili powder for a kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked beans as a hearty side dish for barbecues or potlucks, pairing them with cornbread or coleslaw for a classic American meal. They also complement grilled meats beautifully, making them an excellent choice alongside dishes like Bacon Wrapped Pork Loin. For a complete meal, consider serving with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed. For a quicker option, you can microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated thoroughly. Baked beans can also be frozen for up to three months; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Beans(For A Crowd) contains roughly 2936 calories, with 15g protein, 490g carbohydrates, and 109g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (157% of the Daily Value), potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and calcium (89% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1526mg per serving (66% 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 dry beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned beans for convenience. If you choose this option, skip the soaking and boiling steps. Rinse and drain the canned beans, then add them at the same time you add the pork and other ingredients. This will reduce the cooking time significantly, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the mix. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder when combining the ingredients. Adjust the spiciness according to your taste preferences, ensuring it complements the sweetness of the molasses without overpowering the dish.
What type of pork is best for this recipe?
For this baked beans recipe, pork shoulder or pork belly works great due to their rich flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly. You can also use diced ham for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a leaner option, consider using turkey or chicken sausage, which will still provide a delicious taste without the extra fat.
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).