Baked Beans From Scratch

Baked Beans From Scratch

Baked beans are a classic dish that many enjoy for their rich flavor and comforting texture. Making baked beans from scratch not only allows you to control ingredients but also gives you a chance to create a healthier version. This homemade recipe for baked beans combines protein-packed navy beans with a blend of savory and sweet flavors. Let’s discover how to make this delicious dish that is not only tasty but also nutritious.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This recipe for baked beans from scratch is perfect for those looking for a heart-healthy, high-protein meal. Packed with fiber and protein, this dish will keep you feeling full longer, making it a good option for weight loss. With little prep time and easy cooking steps, it’s a great choice for meal prep, too! The hearty nature of the beans combined with the smokiness of the bacon makes these beans a delicious side or an outstanding main course.

HOW TO MAKE Baked Beans From Scratch

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Large pot
• Dutch oven or baking dish
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound dry navy beans
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 8 slices bacon, diced
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1.5 cups reserved bean liquid

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Pour the dry navy beans into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Soak for 12 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the beans and cover them with fresh water. Stir in the salt and baking soda. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for one hour. Drain the beans, reserving the water.
3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
4. In a Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon until it’s crispy. Add the diced onions and cook until they’re translucent.
5. Stir in the drained beans, brown sugar, ketchup, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and the reserved bean liquid.
6. Pour the mixture into a baking dish, cover tightly, and place it in the oven. Bake for 1 hour.
7. After 1 hour, stir the beans and add additional water if necessary to keep the beans moist. Bake for another 30 minutes.
8. Remove the cover and bake for an extra 30 minutes until the sauce thickens.
9. Stir the baked beans one final time and serve them warm.

HOW TO SERVE Baked Beans From Scratch

This dish is wonderfully versatile. You can serve baked beans as a main dish alongside a salad for a wholesome meal or as a hearty side dish during family gatherings. Keep portions reasonable to make this dish not only filling but also a good fit for weight loss efforts. A standard serving would be about 1/2 cup, paired with a protein source like grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.

STORAGE & FREEZING : Baked Beans From Scratch

These baked beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. If you want to freeze them, let them cool completely and transfer them to a freezer-friendly container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking. When you are ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Baked beans are delicious when served with whole grain bread or cornbread. You can also pair them with a light green salad to balance the meal. For a heart-healthy option, consider adding a side of steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts to increase the fiber and vitamin content of your meal.

VARIATIONS

1. Healthier Version: Substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative for a lighter option. You can omit the brown sugar or use a natural sweetener like stevia to make this dish even healthier.
2. High-Protein or Low-Carb Version: To increase protein and lower carbs, replace some of the navy beans with lentils, which are also high in protein. You could also consider using chickpeas for a different flavor while maintaining a high protein content.
3. Air Fryer Version: If you prefer cooking in an air fryer, consider cooking the bacon in the air fryer first. Then combine the ingredients and transfer them to a baking dish that fits in the air fryer. Bake at 350 degrees F for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, for perfectly cooked baked beans.

FAQs

1. Are baked beans healthy?
Baked beans are generally healthy, especially when made from scratch. They are rich in fiber and protein, contributing to a balanced diet. Using less sugar and making it gluten-free can enhance their health benefits.

2. How do I store baked beans?
You can store baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They also freeze well for up to three months.

3. Can I make baked beans diabetic-friendly?
Yes, by controlling the sugar levels and using ingredients that are lower in carbohydrates, such as cutting back on brown sugar and opting for substitutes like stevia, you can make diabetic-friendly baked beans.

4. How do high-protein baked beans fit into my diet?
High-protein baked beans can help keep you satiated and provide essential nutrients. They are perfect for meal prep and can be a great choice for those focusing on muscle building or weight loss.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Baked Beans From Scratch

If you’re planning a gathering or just want to ease your weeknight cooking, baked beans are a great candidate for meal prep. You can soak the beans the night before to save time, and all the mixing and baking can be done in advance. After baking, allow them to cool, store in the refrigerator, and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld perfectly, making it a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

In conclusion, baked beans from scratch are not only a satisfying dish, they are also a wholesome addition to your diet. Featuring high protein, fiber, and a healthy twist, this recipe is great for meal prep, creating a flavorful meal that’s good for weight loss and heart health. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful taste of homemade baked beans!

Baked Beans From Scratch

A nutritious dish of baked beans made from scratch, combining protein-packed navy beans with savory and sweet flavors, perfect for meal prep.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 12 hours hrs

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 13 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 220

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Beans Preparation

• 1 pound dry navy beans Dried beans are soaked and cooked.
• 2 teaspoons salt For seasoning the beans.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda Helps soften the beans.

Main Ingredients

• 8 slices bacon, diced Adds smokiness to the dish.
• 1 cup diced yellow onion For flavor.
• 1 cup brown sugar Adds sweetness.
• 1 cup ketchup Base of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup Enhances sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Balances flavors.
• 1.5 cups reserved bean liquid Liquid from cooked beans.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Pour the dry navy beans into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Soak for 12 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the beans and cover them with fresh water. Stir in the salt and baking soda. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for one hour. Drain the beans, reserving the water.

Cooking

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon until it's crispy. Add the diced onions and cook until they're translucent.
3. Stir in the drained beans, brown sugar, ketchup, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and the reserved bean liquid.
4. Pour the mixture into a baking dish, cover tightly, and place it in the oven. Bake for 1 hour.
5. After 1 hour, stir the beans and add additional water if necessary to keep the beans moist. Bake for another 30 minutes.
6. Remove the cover and bake for an extra 30 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Stir the baked beans one final time and serve them warm.

Notes

These baked beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. They can also be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.