Honey Baked Beans
Honey Baked Beans combine sweet honey, tangy ketchup, and savory ground beef for a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet; add chopped onion and simmer until golden yellow.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in remaining ingredients and pour the mixture into a bean pot.
- Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness profile. Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Honey Baked Beans make a great side dish for barbecues or potlucks. They pair beautifully with grilled meats, such as chicken or ribs, and are perfect alongside cornbread or a fresh salad. For a more hearty meal, serve them with rice or alongside a slice of Mattie'S Meat Loaf for a comforting dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Honey Baked Beans contains roughly 957 calories, with 21g protein, 189g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (74% of the Daily Value), iron (46% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1632mg per serving (71% 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 fresh beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Use about 2 cups of cooked beans for this recipe. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh beans may require longer to soften and absorb the flavors.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the mixture before baking. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving for an added kick. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
Is it possible to freeze Honey Baked Beans?
Absolutely! Once cooled, transfer the beans to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as described above.
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).