Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm bowl of baked beans.
Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, a cozy winter dinner, or a casual potluck, this baked beans recipe is a must-have in your collection.
It’s rich, hearty, and packed with flavor—making it the perfect side dish for just about any occasion.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through a tried-and-true baked beans recipe that’s simple to make and absolutely delicious. Plus, we’ll include tips, variations, and storage ideas to help you get the most out of your dish.
Read More: Authentic louisiana red beans and rice recipe
Why You’ll Love This Baked Beans Recipe
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Classic flavor: Sweet, smoky, and savory all at once.
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Easy to make: Uses simple pantry staples.
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Versatile: Great as a side or main dish.
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Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for prepping in advance.
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Crowd-pleaser: A hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need for this homemade baked beans recipe:
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2 cans (15 oz each) of navy beans or pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
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1/2 cup chopped onion
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1/2 cup ketchup
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1/4 cup molasses
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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1 tablespoon yellow mustard
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but adds great flavor)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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4 strips of bacon (optional, for extra flavor)
How to Make Baked Beans (Step-by-Step)
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or casserole pan.
2. Cook the Bacon (Optional)
In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside on paper towels. Leave a tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan for extra flavor.
3. Sauté the Onion
Add chopped onions to the pan with the leftover bacon grease. Sauté over medium heat until the onions are soft and translucent—about 5 minutes.
4. Mix the Sauce
In a large bowl, combine ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine and Bake
In your baking dish, mix together the beans, sautéed onions, and sauce. Crumble the bacon over the top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes to let the top caramelize.
Tips for the Best Baked Beans
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Use canned beans for convenience, but if you prefer dried beans, soak and cook them ahead of time.
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Add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for a twist.
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For a vegetarian version, simply skip the bacon or replace it with plant-based alternatives.
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Let them sit after baking—the flavors deepen as they cool.
Serving Suggestions
Baked beans pair beautifully with:
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Grilled burgers and hot dogs
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Fried chicken or pulled pork
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Cornbread or crusty rolls
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Grilled vegetables or coleslaw
They also make a hearty standalone meal when served with rice or toast.
Storage and Reheating
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
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Freeze: Baked beans freeze well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge.
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Reheat: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat or microwave until hot, adding a splash of water if needed.
Final Thoughts
This baked beans recipe is everything you want in a comforting side dish—flavorful, easy, and totally satisfying.
Whether you’re hosting a cookout or just craving something cozy, you can count on this classic recipe to hit the spot every time.
FAQ: Baked Beans Recipe
Q: Can I make baked beans in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just mix everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Q: Can I use black beans or kidney beans?
Absolutely. While navy beans are traditional, feel free to use what you have on hand.
Q: How can I make it spicier?
Add hot sauce, chili flakes, or chopped jalapeños to the mix.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, the flavors get even better after a day in the fridge.
Q: Are baked beans healthy?
Beans are rich in protein and fiber, but this dish can be high in sugar depending on the ingredients. You can adjust the sugar to your preference or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
