Delicious Baked Beans

Prep: 30 min Cook: 90 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Delicious Baked Beans are a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of bacon with the sweetness of brown sugar and tangy ketchup. Perfect for gatherings or family meals, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its comforting and satisfying taste.

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Ingredients

  • 2 gal. beans
  • 1 lb. bacon
  • 3 green peppers
  • 3 onions
  • 42 oz. thick ketchup
  • 4 (4 oz.) cans mushroom stems and pieces
  • 1 lb. brown sugar
  • 1 Tbsp. mustard

Instructions

  1. Fry bacon.
  2. Add peppers and onions; sauté until softened.
  3. Add all ingredients to beans.
  4. Bake at 350° for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce. You can substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique sweetness or use turkey bacon for a lighter option. If you want to add some heat, diced jalapeños or a touch of cayenne pepper can elevate the dish. This recipe is flexible, allowing for various bean types like pinto or black beans.

Serving Suggestions

These baked beans are perfect for summer barbecues and pair beautifully with Barbecued Pork Chops or as a side to a hearty Chili. Serve them alongside cornbread for a comforting meal. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. They also make a great filling for a Surprise Sandwich Loaf, adding a flavorful twist to your lunch.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it to retain moisture. For longer storage, consider freezing in portions for up to 3 months.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Delicious Baked Beans contains roughly 501 calories, with 9g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 886mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).

501 kcal 25% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.4g 19% DV
Total Fat 16.5g 21% DV
Carbs 82.7g 30% DV
Fiber 5.5g 20% DV
Sugar 41.1g 82% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 885.8mg 39% DV
Potassium 572.2mg 12% DV
Cholesterol 5.1mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 31.2mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 64.1mg 71% DV
Calcium 76.5mg 6% DV
Iron 2.7mg 15% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-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 vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe by omitting the bacon and using liquid smoke or smoked paprika to impart a similar flavor. You may also want to increase the amount of vegetables or add some diced tofu for protein. The other ingredients will complement the beans nicely and still keep the dish hearty and delicious.

How do I adjust the cooking time for larger batches?

If you're making a larger batch, you may need to increase the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on the beans after the 1 1/2 hour mark, checking for doneness. If the beans are not tender enough, continue baking and check every 15 minutes. Ensure that the dish is covered to prevent drying out.

What can I use instead of ketchup?

If you prefer not to use ketchup, you can substitute it with a mixture of tomato sauce and a bit of vinegar and sugar to achieve a similar tangy sweetness. Alternatively, BBQ sauce can also work well, adding a smoky flavor that complements the beans beautifully. Adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly based on your sauce choice.

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).

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