why make this recipe
Easy Oven-Baked Baked Beans are a hit at any family gathering or barbecue. They are hearty, flavorful, and comforting. This recipe is simple to follow and uses ingredients that you might already have on hand. Baked beans can serve as a side dish or a main course, making them versatile for any meal. Plus, the ingredients blend beautifully, creating a delicious, sweet yet tangy flavor that everyone will love.
how to make Easy Oven-Baked Baked Beans
Ingredients
- 2 cups Dried Beans (Navy, Pinto, or Kidney) (Soaked overnight for optimal tenderness.)
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped (Adds depth and sweetness.)
- 2-3 cloves Garlic, minced (Enhances the savory quality.)
- 1 cup Brown Sugar (Introduces sweetness.)
- 1 cup Ketchup (Adds tangy flavor and moisture.)
- 2 tablespoons Yellow Mustard (Brings acidity and sharpness.)
- 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (Adds a touch of acidity.)
- to taste Salt (Enhances flavors.)
- to taste Black Pepper (Enhances flavors.)
- 2 cups Water or Vegetable Broth (For cooking the beans.)
Directions
- Soak the dried beans overnight in plenty of water. The next day, drain and rinse them thoroughly.
- In a large pot, add the soaked beans and cover with fresh water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 45 minutes to an hour until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beans, sautéed onion and garlic, brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. Remove foil, stir gently, and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes.
- Once done, let the beans cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm as a side dish or main course.
how to serve Easy Oven-Baked Baked Beans
You can serve Easy Oven-Baked Baked Beans as a side dish with grilled meats, barbecued chicken, or hot dogs. They also work well as a filling main course paired with a fresh salad or crusty bread. Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color.
how to store Easy Oven-Baked Baked Beans
To store leftovers, let the baked beans cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the beans in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
tips to make Easy Oven-Baked Baked Beans
- Make sure to soak the beans well overnight to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
- Customize the sweetness by adjusting the amount of brown sugar according to your taste.
- If you like smoky flavors, consider adding a bit of smoked paprika or bacon to the mix.
- Keep an eye on the beans while baking; if they look too dry, add a splash of water or broth.
variation
For a spicy twist, you can add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can also substitute some of the water or broth with beer for a richer flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans. Just skip the soaking and boiling steps, and reduce the baking time.
2. Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure your broth is vegetable broth.
3. Can I make these baked beans ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beans a day in advance and reheat them before serving. They taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld.
4. What can I do if my beans aren’t tender after cooking?
If your beans aren’t tender after cooking, you can continue to simmer them in the pot for a bit longer. Check them every few minutes until they reach the desired tenderness.
5. How long does it take to cook dried beans?
Cooking dried beans usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour after soaking, but it can vary depending on the type of bean. Always check for tenderness before removing them from heat.