Green Baked Beans
A hearty baked bean dish with smoky bacon, sweet peppers, and tangy ketchup, perfect for comfort food lovers and suitable for casual family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine the beans and great northern beans in a baking dish.
- Add chopped bacon, green peppers, and onion to the dish.
- Mix in tomato ketchup, barbecue sauce, and maple syrup until well combined.
- Bake in the oven for 1 hour or until it starts bubbling in the middle.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. You can substitute great northern beans with navy beans or cannellini beans if needed. For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and add more vegetables or a plant-based bacon alternative. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the green baked beans as a hearty side dish for barbecues or family gatherings. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, particularly pork recipes, or as part of a potluck spread. Consider serving alongside cornbread or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the baked beans in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, covering the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Baked Beans contains roughly 19 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 dish a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
What types of beans can I use?
This recipe works well with various beans. While great northern beans are recommended, you can substitute them with navy beans or even black beans for a different flavor profile. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time if you use canned beans.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or even corn to enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just be mindful of the liquid ratios to maintain the right consistency in your baked beans.
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).