Ladies Home Journal "Award Winning" Homestyle Baked Beans
Hearty baked beans infused with bacon, orange, and molasses, offering a sweet and savory flavor profile perfect for family gatherings or casual cookouts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Empty the baked beans into a large bowl.
- Fry the bacon until crisp and keep the oil rendered.
- Saute the chopped onion and green pepper in the bacon drippings.
- Add the cooked onion and green pepper to the bowl with baked beans.
- Peel or squeeze the juice from the oranges into the bowl.
- Chop or grind the orange peelings and add to the bowl.
- Stir in the oil from the bacon and the Brer Rabbit molasses.
- Combine all ingredients thoroughly in the bowl.
- Place the mixture into a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes until thickened.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or omit it altogether, adjusting the seasoning to enhance the depth of flavor. Make sure to use fresh oranges for a zesty finish, as the juice and zest can brighten the dish significantly.
Serving Suggestions
These baked beans pair beautifully with grilled meats and are a perfect side for barbecues or potlucks. Consider serving them alongside cornbread or coleslaw for a complete meal. They also make a great accompaniment to dishes like Male Chauvinist Chili, enhancing the flavor of your gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the beans in a baking dish and cover with foil, warming them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ladies Home Journal "Award Winning" Homestyle Baked Beans contains roughly 126 calories, with 4g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% 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 canned beans instead of a 3 lb. can of baked beans?
Yes, you can use multiple smaller cans of baked beans if you prefer. Just ensure that the total adds up to about 3 pounds. Adjust the amounts of other ingredients proportionally to maintain the flavor balance.
How can I make this dish spicy?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the sautéed onions and peppers. This will give your baked beans a nice kick that complements the sweetness of the molasses.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).