Helen'S Baked Beans
Helen's Baked Beans offer hearty, savory flavors with tender limas, smoky bacon, and a sweet-tangy tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix tomato soup, sugar, dry mustard, and salt in a bowl.
- Add two cans of water to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture over the dried lima beans in a baking dish.
- Quarter the onion and place the pieces in the corners of the dish.
- Cover the top of the beans with strips of bacon.
- Bake uncovered at 250°F (120°C) for 4 to 5 hours, usually about 4 hours for perfect results.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some diced bell peppers to the bean mixture. If you're out of dried limas, you can substitute with canned lima beans, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. To enhance the smokiness, try using smoked bacon or adding a few drops of liquid smoke.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Helen's Baked Beans as a hearty side dish at your next barbecue or family gathering. They pair beautifully with grilled meats, such as ribs or chicken, and can be a great addition to a potluck spread. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or cornbread. You could also enjoy them as a filling main course with a side of Cream Cheese And Eggs.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Helen'S Baked Beans contains roughly 243 calories, with 8g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1054mg per serving (46% 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 use other types of beans in this recipe?
Yes, while large dried limas are traditional, you can experiment with other beans like navy or pinto beans. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so ensure they're fully cooked and tender before serving.
What if I want to make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and consider adding a smoky flavor using liquid smoke or smoked paprika. You could also add more vegetables, like diced carrots or celery, for added texture and taste.
How do I know when the beans are done cooking?
The beans are done when they are tender and creamy, typically after 4 to 5 hours of baking. You can check them periodically; if they’re too firm, give them more time. Remember that the sauce should be thickened and bubbly for optimal flavor.
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).