Mom'S Baked Beans
A hearty baked bean dish with rich tomato, molasses, and vegetable flavors, perfect for comforting family meals or potlucks. Suitable for vegetarians and those craving sweet-savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak enough beans overnight to make 3 cups.
- Combine all the ingredients in a crock-pot, bean pot, or suitable dish with a cover for oven.
- If the mixture becomes too dry during cooking, add more tomatoes or tomato juice.
- Bake in oven at 300°F or slow cook for 12½ to 13 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce. If you’re out of red kidney beans, navy or cannellini beans work well too. For a vegetarian twist, ensure your molasses is vegan-friendly. Monitor the moisture level during cooking—if it seems dry, a little extra canned tomatoes can help maintain the right consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Mom's Baked Beans make a hearty side dish for barbecues or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with grilled meats, cornbread, or even a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving them alongside Double Baked Sweet Potatoes for a comforting, hearty plate that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish until heated through. If the beans have thickened, you can add a splash of water or tomato juice for moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Baked Beans contains roughly 1174 calories, with 10g protein, 284g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (106% of the Daily Value), iron (96% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (95% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 dried beans instead of canned for this recipe?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but remember to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding to the recipe. This will ensure they cook evenly and absorb all the wonderful flavors from the other ingredients.
Is it necessary to include mushrooms in this dish?
Mushrooms add a lovely umami flavor and texture, but they're optional. If you prefer, you can leave them out or substitute with diced carrots or celery for added vegetables without compromising the dish's integrity.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to taste, adjusting the spiciness to your preference.
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).