Sweet-Sour Baked Beans
Sweet-Sour Baked Beans combine smoky bacon, caramelized onions, and a tangy, sweet and sour sauce for a hearty, flavorful dish. Perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners, this comforting casserole offers a rich blend of savory and tangy notes that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon slices until crisp and set aside.
- Cut the onions into rings and place them in a skillet.
- Add brown sugar, salt, cider vinegar, dry mustard, and garlic powder to the onions.
- Cook the onion mixture covered for 20 minutes.
- Combine the cooked onion mixture with the beans in a 3-quart casserole dish and add the bacon.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter flavor, adjust the brown sugar to your preference, starting with 1 cup. If you want to reduce fat, consider using turkey bacon instead of pork. You can also substitute the dried lima beans with canned ones for a quicker prep time. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give a nice kick to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sweet-sour baked beans as a hearty side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with Pepper Cornbread for a complete meal. Consider complementing them with Green Snap Beans or a fresh Vicki'S Spinach Salad for a balanced plate. A dollop of sour cream can also enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, or reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet-Sour Baked Beans contains roughly 215 calories, with 6g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 898mg per serving (39% 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 different types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix and match with your favorite beans. Black beans or pinto beans can be a great alternative to the kidney beans, offering a different texture and flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if necessary, especially if using dried beans.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and replace it with a smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that smoky flavor. You can also add some diced bell peppers for added texture and taste. The dish will still be delicious and hearty.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the baked beans?
If you find the beans too sweet, reduce the brown sugar next time you make it. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a bit more salt or vinegar, which will enhance the overall flavor profile. Taste the mixture before baking to find your perfect balance.
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).