Best Ever Baked Beans: How to Make the Perfect Recipe

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Today, I’m super excited to share with you my secret recipe for the Best Ever Baked Beans. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, a backyard BBQ, or just need a delicious side dish to pair with your favorite meals, this recipe is a game-changer. It’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s a great addition to your collection of quick family dinners and easy pasta recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly balanced sweet and tangy flavors
• Easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time
• Great for meal prep or make-ahead meals
• Pair well with a variety of main dishes
• Customizable to suit your taste preferences
• Ideal for 30-minute meals when served alongside quick sides

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering recipe:

• 5 cans pork and beans (15 ounce cans) – I love using VanCamps’s Pork and Beans or similar
• 1 large yellow or sweet onion, chopped – or 2 medium size onions if that’s what you have on hand
• 1 – 2 Tablespoons butter – for sautéing the onions to perfection
• 3/4 cup ketchup – the base of our tangy sauce
• 3 Tablespoons yellow mustard – adds a nice zing
• 1/2 cup molasses, unsulphured – for that deep, rich flavor
• 1/4 – 1/2 cup brown sugar – use less if you prefer it less sweet
• 6-8 slices uncooked bacon – each slice cut in half or thirds for the perfect topping

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process:

1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to ensure the beans don’t stick.
2. Sauté the onions over medium to medium-high heat in butter until they’re tender and translucent. This step adds a depth of flavor you won’t want to skip!
3. Mix the beans, ketchup, mustard, molasses, and brown sugar in a large bowl. Stir until everything is well combined.
4. Add the sautéed onions to the bean mixture and mix well. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
5. Top the beans with uncooked bacon slices in a single layer. Bake on the middle rack of your oven, uncovered, for 2–3 hours. The beans are ready when the top is dark and caramelized to perfection.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to make this recipe even better:

• For an extra crispy bacon topping, bake the bacon separately for 5-7 minutes before adding it to the beans.
• If you prefer a sweeter dish, use the full 1/2 cup of brown sugar. If you prefer it less sweet, start with 1/4 cup and taste as you go.
• Let the beans rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Pair this dish with some garlic sesame green beans for a well-rounded meal.

How to Serve

These baked beans are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas for serving:

• As a side dish for your next BBQ or picnic
• Alongside grilled meats like burgers, hot dogs, or ribs
• With a fresh salad or vegetable casserole for a balanced meal
• As part of a comforting weeknight dinner with some roasted asparagus and carrots

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it works for meal prep. Here’s how to make it ahead and store it:

• Make Ahead: Prepare the bean mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the bacon just before baking.
• Storage: Leftover beans can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: Let the beans cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

There you have it – the secret to making the Best Ever Baked Beans! This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, and I know it will become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for quick family dinners, easy pasta recipes, or delicious side dishes for your next BBQ, this recipe checks all the boxes. Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!