Old Fashioned Baked Beans

These Old Fashioned Baked Beans are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a summer BBQ, a cozy potluck, or a hearty family dinner. Rich in flavor and made entirely from scratch using simple ingredients, these beans will remind you of Grandma’s kitchen. Their thick, sweet, and smoky sauce is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and can easily complement any main dish.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Baked Beans
• For Garnish
• How to Make Old Fashioned Baked Beans
• Step 1: Soak and Boil Beans
• Step 2: Prepare the Base
• Step 3: Add Sauce Ingredients
• Step 4: Add Beans and Liquid
• Step 5: Bake
• Step 6: Finish and Serve
• Slow Cooker Method:
• Notes
• How to Serve Old Fashioned Baked Beans
• With Grilled Meats
• As a Standalone Dish
• At Potlucks and Gatherings
• How to Perfect Old Fashioned Baked Beans
• Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Baked Beans
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Old Fashioned Baked Beans
• Reheating Old Fashioned Baked Beans
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Old Fashioned Baked Beans different?
• Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
• How do I customize my Old Fashioned Baked Beans?
• Are Old Fashioned Baked Beans gluten-free?
• How long does it take to make Old Fashioned Baked Beans?
• Final Thoughts
• SEO Information
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this classic dish without any fuss.
• Rich Flavor: Slow-cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in beans that are both sweet and savory.
• Versatile Side Dish: These beans pair perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a standalone meal.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness and smokiness according to your taste preferences by modifying the molasses or smoked paprika.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from navy beans and bacon, this dish is satisfying enough to serve on its own.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools needed for preparing these delicious baked beans.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for slow-cooking; it retains heat well and ensures even cooking throughout the dish.
• Large pot: Necessary for soaking and boiling the beans before they are added to the mixture.
• Knife: Useful for chopping onions and garlic precisely, enhancing the overall texture of your beans.

Ingredients

For the Baked Beans

• 1 pound dried navy beans
• 8 oz thick-cut bacon, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup plain tomato sauce or ketchup
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 bay leaf

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Old Fashioned Baked Beans

Step 1: Soak and Boil Beans

Place navy beans in a large pot and cover them with water by several inches. Soak overnight (8–12 hours). Drain the beans, then refill the pot with fresh water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour. Drain the beans again, reserving at least 1½ cups of the cooking liquid.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

In a Dutch oven over medium heat, fry the diced bacon until crisp. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for about 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Sauce Ingredients

To the bacon-onion mixture, stir in the following:
– Tomato sauce (or ketchup)
– Molasses
– Brown sugar
– Apple cider vinegar
– Yellow mustard
– Worcestershire sauce
– Smoked paprika
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Bay leaf

Step 4: Add Beans and Liquid

Add the pre-cooked beans along with 1½ cups of reserved bean cooking liquid into the Dutch oven. Stir everything together gently until well combined. Bring this mixture to a simmer for about 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Cover your Dutch oven with a lid and bake for 2 to 3 hours. Remove the lid during the last 20–30 minutes to help thicken the sauce. Be sure to stir occasionally; add more reserved liquid if needed to prevent dryness.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

After baking is complete, discard the bay leaf from your baked beans. Taste them one last time before serving; adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. You can serve these delicious Old Fashioned Baked Beans hot or let them cool before refrigerating until ready to reheat.

Slow Cooker Method:

If you prefer using a slow cooker:
Follow steps 1 and 2 as described above. Then transfer everything into a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for about 6–7 hours or HIGH for roughly 3–4 hours. Leave the lid off during the final 30+ minutes to allow the sauce to thicken nicely.

Notes

For tougher beans that require extra help softening during boiling, consider adding 1/4 tsp baking soda in step one. You can also adjust how thick you want your sauce by adding more reserved liquid or baking uncovered longer if necessary.

Enjoy this easy recipe for Old Fashioned Baked Beans, which is sure to become a favorite at all your gatherings!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Baked Beans

Old Fashioned Baked Beans are a versatile dish that pairs well with many meals. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, these beans can enhance any plate. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Grilled Meats

• BBQ Ribs: The sweet and smoky flavor of the beans complements the rich taste of barbecued ribs perfectly.
• Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside juicy grilled chicken for a hearty and satisfying meal.

As a Standalone Dish

• Baked Bean Bowl: Top your baked beans with shredded cheese and diced green onions for a simple yet delicious meal.
• Bean Nachos: Use baked beans as a topping on nachos for a unique twist on this classic snack.

At Potlucks and Gatherings

• Party Platter: Serve baked beans in a large bowl surrounded by corn bread and salad for an inviting potluck dish.
• Casserole Dish: Transfer to a casserole dish to keep warm and make it easy for guests to serve themselves.

How to Perfect Old Fashioned Baked Beans

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Old Fashioned Baked Beans, consider these helpful tips.

• Soak Your Beans Properly: Soaking overnight softens the beans, ensuring they cook evenly and thoroughly.
• Use Quality Bacon: Choosing thick-cut bacon adds richness and depth to the overall flavor of the dish.
• Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference, feel free to tweak the amount of brown sugar or molasses for desired sweetness.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your beans while baking; you want them tender but not mushy.
• Add Liquid Gradually: If the sauce thickens too much during baking, add reserved bean liquid gradually to maintain the right consistency.

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Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Baked Beans

Old Fashioned Baked Beans shine as a side dish, but pairing them with complementary sides elevates any meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Coleslaw: A fresh and crunchy coleslaw balances the rich flavors of baked beans and adds refreshing texture.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up those delicious juices from your baked beans.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides a nice contrast to the sweet, smoky flavors of the beans.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Colorful grilled vegetables add healthiness and flavor while enhancing your meal’s presentation.
5. Macaroni Salad: This classic dish brings creaminess that pairs well with the texture of baked beans.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the flavors in your baked beans beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Old Fashioned Baked Beans, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Soak: Not soaking the beans overnight can lead to tough, undercooked beans. Always soak them for 8-12 hours to ensure they cook evenly.
• Overcrowding the Dutch Oven: If you add too many ingredients at once, it may not cook properly. Stick to the recipe measurements for best results.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning at the end can leave your beans bland. Always check flavor and add salt or pepper as needed.
• Not Covering While Baking: Leaving the Dutch oven uncovered for too long can dry out your beans. Cover while baking and only remove the lid toward the end to thicken the sauce.
• Ignoring Storage Recommendations: Improper storage can affect flavor and texture. Follow guidelines for refrigerating or freezing to keep your baked beans fresh.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Old Fashioned Baked Beans can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Old Fashioned Baked Beans

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Old Fashioned Baked Beans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low flame in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Old Fashioned Baked Beans different?

Old Fashioned Baked Beans are characterized by their thick, sweet sauce made from molasses and brown sugar. The slow-cooking process enhances their rich flavors.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned beans. However, reduce cooking time significantly since they’re already cooked. Just mix with sauce ingredients and bake until heated through.

How do I customize my Old Fashioned Baked Beans?

You can add various ingredients like bell peppers or jalapeños for spice. Additionally, try different meats such as sausage or ham for extra flavor.

Are Old Fashioned Baked Beans gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you ensure all sauces used (like Worcestershire) are gluten-free.

How long does it take to make Old Fashioned Baked Beans?

From soaking to baking, plan on about 12 hours including soaking time. However, most of that time is hands-off!

Final Thoughts

These Old Fashioned Baked Beans are a delightful side dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to any meal. Perfect for BBQs or family gatherings, they offer versatility with various customization options. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors; you might just discover your personal favorite twist!

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