Ultimate Baked Beans Recipe: The Secret to Mouthwatering Flavor
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 10
Thereโs something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of baked beans, and this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Over the years, Iโve perfected this dish, and now my friends are constantly asking me what my secret is. Itโs the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, combined with a touch of smoky bacon and the right balance of tangy and rich ingredients. Whether youโre serving them at a family barbecue, holiday dinner, or casual get-together, these baked beans will always steal the show. Letโs get cooking!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Molasses | 2 tbsp |
| Ketchup | 1/2 cup |
| Mustard | 1/2 tbsp |
| Brown Sugar | 1 cup |
| Bacon | 1 1/4 cups |
| Pork & Beans (canned) | 2 cans (15 oz each) |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 331.2 kcal |
| Fat Content | 3.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 14.2 mg |
| Sodium | 988.1 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 70.5 g |
| Fiber | 11.2 g |
| Sugars | 29.4 g |
| Protein | 10.7 g |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Beans:
Start by draining the pork and beans, ensuring that you remove any excess fat. This will help you avoid the greasy texture and ensure the beans bake to perfection. -
Cook the Bacon:
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until itโs nice and crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pan, and set it aside, reserving a few strips to place on top of the beans before baking. -
Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). This is the perfect temperature for the beans to bake slowly, allowing all the flavors to meld together. -
Make the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and molasses. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is the key to achieving that rich, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor that makes these beans irresistible. -
Combine Beans and Bacon:
Add the drained beans and crumbled bacon into the sauce mixture. Stir everything together, making sure the beans are well coated with the sauce. Donโt forget to mash some of the beans to give the dish a thicker, heartier texture, but leave some beans whole for that classic baked bean look. -
Bake the Beans:
Pour the bean and sauce mixture into an oven-safe baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Place it in the oven and bake for at least 3 hours, checking occasionally to make sure it doesnโt dry out. If necessary, you can add a little more ketchup or a splash of water to keep the beans moist. -
Optional Microwave Method:
If you’re in a rush or prefer a quicker method, you can microwave the beans. Cover the dish with microwave-safe plastic wrap and cook on high for 1 hour and 30 minutes, stirring halfway through. -
Top with Bacon:
After baking, top the beans with the reserved crispy bacon strips. The bacon adds a wonderful crunch and a final burst of flavor on top of the soft beans. -
Final Bake:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes. This allows the bacon to crisp up on top, creating a perfect finish. -
Let Stand:
Once done, remove the beans from the oven and let them stand for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors a chance to settle and enhances the taste. -
Serve and Enjoy!
Now itโs time to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Serve these baked beans alongside your favorite main dishes, and watch them disappear as everyone asks for seconds.
These baked beans are packed with flavor, and their balance of sweetness, tanginess, and smokiness makes them a standout dish at any gathering. Whether you’re making them in the oven or using the microwave for a quicker option, youโll be treated to a hearty and satisfying dish that will become a family favorite in no time. Enjoy!
