Stephen'S Baked Beans
Creamy, smoky baked beans with molasses and salt pork, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings with rich flavors and comforting texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Allow navy beans to soak in water overnight.
- Drain the soaked beans and add them to a crock-pot.
- Add salt, molasses, salt pork, brown sugar, pepper, and dry mustard to the crock-pot.
- Cook on high for 5 to 6 hours until beans are tender and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, soak the navy beans overnight to ensure they cook evenly and become tender. If you don't have salt pork, you can substitute it with diced bacon or ham for a similar flavor. Adjust the sweetness by using less brown sugar or molasses if preferred. To add a spicy kick, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper. This dish pairs well with cornbread or coleslaw.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked beans as a hearty side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. They complement grilled meats, such as ribs or burgers, beautifully. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with cornbread or a fresh salad. They can also be enjoyed as a main dish alongside steamed vegetables or over rice for a satisfying vegetarian option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply place the beans in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for quick servings. If the beans seem dry, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stephen'S Baked Beans contains roughly 271 calories, with 5g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (208% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. 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 navy beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned navy beans to save time. Simply drain and rinse them, then reduce the cooking time to about 2 hours on low, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust the seasonings to taste, as canned beans are often already salted.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Stephen's Baked Beans, omit the salt pork and replace it with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a hint of smokiness. You can also add sautéed onions and garlic for extra flavor. Ensure that all other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
What can I do if my beans are still hard after cooking?
If your beans are still hard after the suggested cooking time, continue cooking them on high and check every 30 minutes until they reach the desired tenderness. Ensure there is enough liquid in the crock-pot to prevent burning. Adding a bit of baking soda can also help soften 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).