New England Baked Beans(Crock-Pot Recipe)
Creamy, savory New England baked beans cooked slowly with salt pork and molasses, perfect for hearty family dinners or traditional gatherings. Rich flavors and tender beans shine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the beans with water and soak overnight.
- In the morning, boil the beans in the same water until fork-tender, approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
- Drain the beans and transfer them to a crock-pot set on low.
- Add 4 to 5 slices of salt pork and a peeled medium onion (whole or cut in half) to the crock-pot.
- Mix together molasses, salt, and dry mustard with boiling water and add to the beans.
- Ensure the beans are covered with liquid and keep the crock-pot covered throughout cooking.
- Add boiling water if the beans start to dry out during cooking.
- Cook on low for 7 to 10 hours without stirring.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, soak the beans overnight and ensure they are tender before transferring them to the crock-pot. You can substitute the salt pork with smoked turkey or even omit it for a vegetarian version. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, consider adding a bit more molasses or brown sugar to the mixture. Stir occasionally if you’re home, but avoid opening the lid too often to maintain heat. This dish pairs beautifully with Vegi Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the New England baked beans as a hearty side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. They complement grilled meats wonderfully and add a comforting touch to any meal. Pair with cornbread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving with Sweet Apples And Carrots for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent drying out, then warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze the beans for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New England Baked Beans(Crock-Pot Recipe) contains roughly 164 calories, with 42g carbohydrates and 0g fat. It is a good source of potassium (18% of the Daily Value) and iron (15% 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 dry beans?
While you can use canned beans, the texture and flavor will differ. If using canned, skip the soaking and boiling steps, and adjust cooking time to about 2-3 hours on low in the crock-pot, ensuring you add the other ingredients at the right time.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the salt pork and use vegetable broth instead of water when mixing with molasses, salt, and mustard. The beans will still be flavorful and satisfying without the meat. Consider adding some smoked paprika for added depth.
What can I serve with baked beans?
Baked beans pair well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside grilled sausages, burgers, or hot dogs. They also go great with coleslaw like Jar Slaw or cornbread for a classic combination. A side of pickles can enhance the meal too.
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).