Betty'S Boston Baked Beans
Betty's Boston Baked Beans combine smoky bacon, sweet brown sugar, tangy ketchup, and bourbon for a hearty, flavorful side perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Chop bacon and place in a heavy-bottom skillet over medium heat.
- Cook until partly crisp.
- Add chopped onions and continue cooking, stirring occasionally until onions are limp and transparent.
- Stir in brown sugar, ketchup, and bourbon.
- Add the pork and beans and mix well.
- Transfer to a beanpot or baking dish.
- Bake for 1 1/2 hours at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke to the mix. If you prefer a sweeter profile, you can substitute maple syrup for brown sugar. For a vegetarian option, replace bacon with smoked tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of bourbon. Ensure to keep stirring to prevent ingredients from sticking while cooking.
Serving Suggestions
These Boston Baked Beans make a hearty main dish and pair beautifully with coleslaw, like Pineapple-Bacon Coleslaw, or serve alongside grilled meats for a complete meal. They also work well at a Cocktail Party as a side dish or appetizer. Consider topping with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply transfer the beans to a saucepan and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave them in a covered dish until heated through, adding a splash of water if they appear too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Boston Baked Beans contains roughly 336 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 20g fat.
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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beans a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Simply let them cool completely before covering. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven until warmed through, adding a bit of extra ketchup or bourbon if needed.
What type of beans should I use?
The recipe calls for pork and beans, which are typically navy beans in a tomato sauce. You can use canned varieties for convenience, or make your own from dried beans. Just ensure they are cooked until tender before mixing them with the other ingredients.
Can I freeze Boston Baked Beans?
Yes, Boston Baked Beans freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and add a bit of moisture if they seem dry.
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).