So Simple Baked Beans
A hearty, comforting dish featuring tender navy beans slow-cooked with smoky bacon, sweet molasses, and aromatic onion. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this baked beans recipe combines rich flavors with a touch of sweetness, offering a satisfying and flavorful meal that warms the soul.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and pick over the navy beans.
- Place the beans in a crock-pot.
- Mix the seasonings with part of the water.
- Pour the seasoned water over the beans.
- Bury the bacon and chopped onion in the beans.
- Add the remaining water to the crock-pot.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 8 to 10 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a few cloves of garlic. If navy beans are unavailable, great northern beans can be a suitable substitute. Adjust the sweetness to your preference by varying the brown sugar and molasses. If you're short on time, you can pre-soak the beans overnight to reduce cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked beans alongside grilled meats or as a hearty side with cornbread for a comforting meal. They pair beautifully with Scrambled Potatoes for a complete spread. Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the dish's appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if they seem too thick. They can also be reheated in the microwave for quick meals, making them a convenient option for busy days.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of So Simple Baked Beans contains roughly 202 calories, with 9g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1191mg per serving (52% 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 this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of water for cooking. For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing some mushrooms or using smoked paprika to replicate the smokiness typically imparted by bacon.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the baked beans?
To adjust the sweetness, you can reduce the amount of molasses and brown sugar according to your taste. Start by cutting them in half and taste-testing as the beans cook. Remember that the sweetness will intensify as they bake, so adjust gradually to find your perfect balance.
Can I use canned beans instead?
While this recipe is best with dried beans for texture and flavor, you can use canned beans in a pinch. If you do, skip the soaking and initial cooking time, and simply combine the ingredients in the crock-pot for about 2 to 3 hours on low, allowing the flavors to meld without overcooking the beans.
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).