The Best Baked Beans

Baked beans are a dish filled with rich flavor. To make great baked beans, choose the right ingredients.

Elevate your meals with the best baked beans recipe that promises rich flavor and satisfaction. Discover how to choose premium ingredients, like navy beans and smoky bacon, to create a delicious dish from scratch. Explore fun variations and perfect side dishes to serve alongside. Don't miss out on this flavorful culinary adventure!

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Ingredients

2 cups dried navy beans

4 cups water (for soaking)

4 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup maple syrup

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon sea salt

2 cups beef or vegetable broth

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

Prepare the Beans: Rinse the dried navy beans under cold water. Soak the beans in 4 cups of water overnight (or for at least 6-8 hours) to rehydrate them. After soaking, drain and rinse again.

Cook the Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy (about 5-7 minutes), then remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.

Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot with the bacon fat and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked beans, sautéed onions, garlic, crispy bacon, brown sugar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, sea salt, and the broth. Stir everything to combine thoroughly.

Bake the Beans: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Pour the bean mixture into a large oven-safe dish or Dutch oven. Cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.

Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, checking occasionally. If the beans become too dry, add a bit more broth or water, ensuring they're covered in liquid.

Add Acidity: After about 2 hours of baking, remove the lid, stir in the apple cider vinegar and cayenne pepper (if using). This will help brighten the flavors.

Finish Cooking: Continue baking uncovered for the last 30 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and caramelize. The beans should be tender and flavorful.

Serve: Let the beans rest for about 10 minutes before serving to let the sauce set.

Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 3 hrs | Servings: 6-8

- Presentation Tips: Serve the baked beans in a rustic bowl or on a platter, garnished with additional chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Pair them with crusty bread or cornbread for a perfect side dish!