Ruth'S Baked Beans
Ruth's Baked Beans offer a hearty, savory flavor with hints of mustard and Worcestershire, perfect for family gatherings or casual cookouts with a comforting, smoky taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray Pam in a skillet and heat on the stove.
- Scramble and brown the ground chuck.
- Mix chopped onion and green bell pepper in a teaspoon or two of margarine.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the browned, drained meat, beans with their liquid, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar.
- Pour or ladle the mixture into a bean pot.
- Bake slowly at 325°F in the oven for 2 to 3 hours, covered.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of barbecue sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the bean mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground chuck if you're looking for a leaner option. If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider increasing the brown sugar or adding a touch of maple syrup. Don't skip the browning step for the meat, as it enhances the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
These baked beans make a hearty side dish and pair beautifully with grilled meats, especially burgers or barbecue ribs. Serve alongside a fresh salad like Rhonda'S Salad or cornbread for a complete meal. They can also be enjoyed as a filling main dish with rice or crusty bread for a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply transfer the beans to a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ruth'S Baked Beans contains roughly 247 calories, with 3g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. Just drain and rinse them before adding to the mixture. Adjust the cooking time as needed since canned beans are already cooked. This will still provide a delicious flavor without the long cooking time.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground chuck and use a mix of your favorite beans, like black beans and kidney beans. You can add extra vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to enhance the texture and flavor, and use vegetable broth instead of any meat juices.
What type of beans work best for baked beans?
Traditionally, navy beans or pinto beans are used for baked beans due to their creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors. However, you can experiment with other varieties like black beans or cannellini beans for a different twist that still tastes great.
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).