Nora'S Baked Beans
Savory baked beans with smoky bacon, sweet ketchup, and a hint of mustard, perfect for a hearty potluck or casual family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large baking dish, spread the beans evenly.
- Sprinkle the fried bacon pieces over the beans.
- Add the chopped onion, catsup, brown sugar, and dry mustard, mixing gently to combine.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the flavors meld and the beans are heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of different types of beans, such as kidney and pinto. If you're short on time, canned beans are a great shortcut. You can substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique twist. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Nora's Baked Beans are perfect as a hearty side dish for barbecues or potlucks. They pair beautifully with Apricot Ham or Ham Casserole Supper. Serve them alongside cornbread and a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also enjoy them as a comforting main dish with crusty bread on the side for sopping up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, or warm them on the stovetop over low heat. If the beans seem dry, add a splash of water or broth to help restore moisture while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nora'S Baked Beans contains roughly 256 calories, with 5g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 690mg per serving (30% 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 make these baked beans vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using a plant-based bacon substitute or simply increasing the quantity of onions for flavor. You might also want to add some smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor that bacon provides.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the beans by combining all the ingredients in the baking dish a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing them in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What type of beans should I use?
You can use a variety of canned beans such as navy, pinto, or kidney beans. The classic choice is often navy beans, but feel free to mix different types for added texture and flavor. Just be sure to rinse and drain them well before using.
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).