Great Northern Baked Beans
Hearty baked beans featuring tender Great Northern beans, sweet molasses, and savory salt pork, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the beans thoroughly.
- Put the beans in a pot and cover with water.
- Bring to a boil and cook until the beans are swollen.
- Drain the water off the beans.
- Transfer the beans to a baking pot and add water to cover.
- Add molasses, salt pork, salt, and pepper to the beans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 6 1/2 to 8 hours, checking often and adding more water if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions or garlic to the beans before baking. If you can't find Great Northern beans, navy beans make a suitable substitute. Adjust the molasses based on your sweetness preference, or try brown sugar for a different taste. Remember to soak the beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Great Northern Baked Beans are perfect as a side for grilled meats or as part of a hearty barbecue spread. They pair beautifully with a Bacon Omelet for a robust breakfast or brunch option. Serve with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious sauce, and consider adding a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the baked beans to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Northern Baked Beans contains roughly 99 calories, with 0g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1776mg per serving (77% 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 make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the salt pork with diced smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a similar smoky flavor. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the beans to enhance the taste without meat.
How do I know when the beans are done baking?
The beans are done when they are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. You can test for doneness by tasting a few beans. If they are still firm, continue baking and check every 30 minutes, adding water as needed.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans for a quicker version. Drain and rinse them, then combine with the other ingredients and bake for about 30-45 minutes, just enough to meld the flavors together.
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).