Nell'S Baked Beans
Nell's Baked Beans offer a hearty, smoky flavor with a touch of sweetness and spice. Combining savory bacon, tangy ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce, this dish is perfect for casual family dinners or cookouts. Its bold flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for those who enjoy comforting, flavorful comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except bacon in a mixing bowl.
- Fry bacon until crispy and then let drain on paper towels.
- Add cooked bacon to the bean mixture and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, consider using smoked tempeh or mushrooms instead of bacon, and omit the hamburger. You can also experiment with different types of beans, like black beans or kidney beans, for varied flavor. If you want a bit of sweetness, try adding a touch of brown sugar or maple syrup to the mix. This dish can be easily customized to match your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
These baked beans make a perfect side dish for a barbecue or picnic, pairing wonderfully with grilled meats or cornbread. For a hearty meal, serve them alongside a simple salad or with warm, crusty bread. They also complement American recipes like BBQ ribs or pulled pork nicely, making for a satisfying spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the beans seem dry, add a splash of water or broth during reheating to keep them moist and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nell'S Baked Beans contains roughly 740 calories, with 35g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (69% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (60% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1423mg per serving (62% 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 or do I have to cook them from scratch?
Using canned beans is not only convenient but also recommended for this recipe. They save time and ensure consistent texture. Just be sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium before mixing them with the other ingredients.
How can I make these baked beans spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of cayenne pepper into the mix. Alternatively, you can choose a spicier hot sauce to suit your taste. Start with a little and adjust based on your heat preference for the perfect kick.
Is it possible to prepare these beans in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bean mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just let it come to room temperature before transferring it to the baking dish and following the cooking instructions. This can enhance the flavors as they meld overnight.
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).