Dry Beans
Creamy and hearty baked beans with cheese and pimientos, perfect for comfort food lovers or casual gatherings, offering rich flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the dry white butter beans until tender.
- Add the desired amount of cheese and dry bread crumbs to the cooked beans.
- Mix in chopped pimientos and season to taste.
- Bake the mixture until the cheese is melted.
- Add a small amount of milk if more liquid is needed during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions and garlic to the beans before mixing in the cheese and breadcrumbs. If you don't have white butter beans, navy beans or cannellini beans can work as substitutes. Adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference for creaminess; cheddar or mozzarella are great options. You can also incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked butter beans as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad for a balance of flavors. They pair beautifully with American recipes like Meat Pie With Biscuits, making it a comforting meal. Consider topping with fresh herbs or extra cheese just before serving for a delightful finish. These beans also make a great filling for wraps or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the beans in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. Stir in a splash of milk to maintain creaminess if needed. They can also be microwaved in individual servings.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dry Beans contains roughly 42 calories, with 3g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g 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 use canned beans instead of dry beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. If using canned beans, simply rinse and drain them, then mix with cheese and breadcrumbs without the initial cooking step. Bake until heated through and cheese is melted, usually about 15-20 minutes.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice due to its sharp flavor that complements the beans well. Mozzarella provides a gooey texture, while a blend of both can offer the best of both worlds. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses to achieve the desired taste and consistency.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this dish vegan, substitute dairy cheese with plant-based cheese alternatives and use a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk if needed. Ensure the breadcrumbs are vegan-friendly, and you can add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
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).