Joyce M.'S Baked Beans
A hearty baked bean casserole with smoky bacon, sweet brown sugar, and tangy ketchup, perfect for gatherings, picnics, or comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the canned beans and discard the liquid.
- Cut the bacon into small pieces and chop the onion.
- Brown the bacon with the chopped onion in a skillet.
- Do not drain the bacon grease.
- Add brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard to the skillet.
- Cook over medium-low heat until the sugar is melted and the mixture is blended.
- Combine the sauce mixture with the drained beans in a large casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a few drops of liquid smoke. You can substitute the light red kidney beans with black beans or cannellini beans based on your preference. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can be used to speed up the process. For a vegetarian option, replace bacon with a plant-based alternative and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked beans as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or a comforting main like Cranberry-Mandarin Glazed Pork Roast. They pair wonderfully with Country Dinner Rolls for soaking up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh salad or coleslaw to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if they seem too thick. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Joyce M.'S Baked Beans contains roughly 586 calories, with 8g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 695mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
* % 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 baked beans a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake them in the oven, allowing a few extra minutes for heating through.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a savory flavor. Adjust seasonings to enhance the dish, as the bacon usually adds saltiness and depth.
How can I thicken the beans if they are too soupy?
If your baked beans are too watery after baking, you can simmer them on the stovetop over medium heat for a few minutes until they thicken up. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water, then stir it into the beans to help achieve the desired consistency.
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).