Get ready to transform your ordinary side dish into a mouthwatering sensation that will have everyone begging for seconds! These Easy Ultimate Baked Beans are not just another boring bean recipe - they're a flavor explosion that combines sweet, tangy, and smoky notes in one irresistible dish. Perfect for backyard barbecues, family gatherings, or when you simply want to elevate your meal with a classic American side that packs a serious punch of deliciousness.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed navy beans. Make sure to thoroughly drain the beans to prevent excess liquid in the final dish.
- Add the barbecue sauce to the beans, stirring gently to coat each bean evenly. Choose a smoky or sweet barbecue sauce depending on your flavor preference.
- Incorporate the brown sugar into the bean mixture, mixing well to ensure the sugar is distributed throughout and will caramelize during baking.
- Finely dice the onion into small, uniform pieces. Add the diced onion to the bean mixture for additional flavor and texture.
- Stir in the mustard, which will add a tangy depth to the overall flavor profile of the baked beans.
- Transfer the bean mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer to ensure consistent cooking.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the beans are heated through and the top is slightly caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let the beans rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot as a side dish with barbecue meats, grilled foods, or as part of a classic American-style meal.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use a high-quality barbecue sauce that complements your flavor preferences - smoky, sweet, or spicy.
- Drain Beans Thoroughly: Ensure your navy beans are well-drained to prevent a watery final dish and help the sauce cling perfectly to each bean.
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like crispy bacon bits, a dash of hot sauce, or some finely chopped bell peppers for extra depth.
- Watch Caramelization: Keep an eye on the beans during the last 15 minutes of baking to ensure they caramelize without burning.
- Let Them Rest: Always allow the beans to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce thicken and allows flavors to meld together beautifully.Pro Tip: These baked beans taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make them in advance for meal prep or potlucks!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400kcal
Carbohydrates: 82g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
