Homemade baked beans are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with barbecues, picnics, and potlucks. This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional baked beans, using a combination of beans, bacon, onions, and a sweet and tangy sauce. It’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. Serve these baked beans alongside grilled meats or as a hearty side dish on their own.
Ingredients for Homemade Baked Beans
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 (28-ounce) cans baked beans
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
How to Make Homemade Baked Beans
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Onion
- In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it starts to brown.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked bacon and onion with the baked beans, ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to combine.
Step 4: Bake the Beans
- Pour the bean mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the beans are bubbly and the sauce has thickened.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the baked beans from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the baked beans hot as a side dish.
About the Main Ingredients
Baked Beans: Baked beans are a staple in many American households. They are made from navy beans that are cooked with a sweet and savory sauce. Baked beans are a good source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals.
Bacon: Bacon adds a rich and smoky flavor to the baked beans. It also adds a savory element that complements the sweetness of the sauce.
Onion: Onion adds flavor and texture to the baked beans. It becomes soft and sweet when cooked, adding depth to the dish.
Ketchup: Ketchup adds a tangy sweetness to the sauce. It also helps to thicken the sauce and give it a rich color.
Molasses: Molasses adds a deep, rich sweetness to the baked beans. It also adds a slightly bitter note that balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness and helps to thicken the sauce. It also adds a caramel-like flavor to the baked beans.
Mustard: Mustard adds a tangy flavor to the baked beans. It also helps to balance out the sweetness of the sauce.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy acidity to the baked beans. It helps to brighten the flavors of the dish and cut through the richness of the other ingredients.
Garlic Powder, Black Pepper, Salt: These seasonings add depth and flavor to the baked beans. They help to enhance the other flavors in the dish and create a well-rounded flavor profile.
