Kay'S Beans
A hearty baked beans dish with smoky bacon, sweet brown sugar, and tangy ketchup, perfect for family gatherings or casual cookouts with rich flavors and satisfying comfort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut half the bacon into 1/4 inch pieces.
- Dice the onion.
- Mix all ingredients together in a baking dish.
- Cover the top with the remaining bacon slices.
- Bake in a moderate oven until beans are bubbly and bacon is crisp.
- Pour off excess fat before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using maple bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. If you want a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be mixed in. You can substitute the pork and beans with vegetarian beans for a lighter option. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the beans. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy Oven Barbecue.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Kay's Beans as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or BBQ chicken. It also complements a simple green salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting breakfast, try it with eggs and toast or pair it with the Homestead Breakfast for a filling start to your day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a baking dish and cover with foil, warming in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kay'S Beans contains roughly 596 calories, with 7g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value) and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 781mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different beans like navy beans or black beans. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly if using dried beans. Each type will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish, so choose what you enjoy the most.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Kay's Beans vegetarian, replace the pork and beans with a vegetarian bean option and omit the bacon. You can use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to impart a smoky flavor without meat. Additionally, add some sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.
What can I serve with Kay's Beans?
Kay's Beans are versatile and pair well with coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside burgers or hot dogs, making it a great addition to summer cookouts or family gatherings.
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).