Sweet And Sour Baked Beans
Sweet and sour baked beans combine smoky bacon, tender beans, and a tangy glaze for a hearty, flavorful dish. Perfect for large gatherings or family dinners, its balance of savory and sweet flavors appeals to all ages and pairs well with comfort foods or casual cookouts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook onions in bacon drippings until tender.
- Add brown sugar, dry mustard, garlic powder, salt, and vinegar to the onions.
- Cook, covered, for 20 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Mix the onion and sauce mixture into the drained beans and baby limas, kidney beans, and baked beans.
- Add the crumbled bacon to the bean mixture.
- Pour the combined mixture into casseroles.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- The dish can be frozen for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using smoked bacon or adding a touch of Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and use smoked paprika for flavor. Adjust the brown sugar according to your sweetness preference, or substitute with honey or maple syrup for a different taste. You can also experiment with different bean varieties to customize the dish.
Serving Suggestions
These Sweet and Sour Baked Beans make a hearty side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. Serve alongside grilled meats, cornbread, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They also pair beautifully with Pork Vegetable Roast (Microwave), enhancing the meal's flavor profile. Consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs for an added touch of freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. The baked beans also freeze well; just ensure they are cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Baked Beans contains roughly 186 calories, with 11g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 515mg per serving (22% 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 other types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite beans such as black beans or pinto beans. Just ensure they are cooked and drained properly before mixing them with the other ingredients.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the onion mixture. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking to enhance the dish's spiciness.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply ensure that the bacon and any sauces used are gluten-free. Most canned beans are gluten-free, but always check the labels to be sure. This way, you can enjoy these delicious baked beans without worry.
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).