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Great baked beans are all about balance and flavor. Here are the key components to make your dish shine.

The Best Baked Beans

Discover how to make the best baked beans that everyone will love! This article features flavorful and easy recipes, essential ingredients, and cooking techniques that transform your beans into a gourmet dish. Whether you prefer classic or adventurous flavors, we’ve got you covered. Plus, learn how to adapt baked beans to suit any dietary needs. Click through to explore mouthwatering recipes that will elevate your meals!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups dried navy beans (or 3 cans of navy beans, drained and rinsed)

1 large onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup molasses

1/4 cup ketchup

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1 pinch black pepper

Salt to taste

4 slices turkey bacon, chopped (optional for a smoky flavor)

4 cups vegetable broth (or water)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Beans: If using dried navy beans, rinse them thoroughly and soak them overnight in water. The next day, drain and rinse the beans again. Place them in a large pot with fresh water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 1 hour or until tender. Drain and set aside.

    Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

      Mix the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, molasses, ketchup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix well until smooth.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large baking dish, combine the cooked or canned beans, sautéed onions and garlic, and the sauce mixture. If using, stir in the chopped turkey bacon for that extra smoky flavor.

          Add Liquid: Pour the vegetable broth (or water) over the mixture. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

            Bake: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours. Remove the foil in the last 30 minutes of baking to allow the beans to thicken and for the top to caramelize slightly.

              Adjust Seasoning: Once baked, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or spices as needed.

                Let it Rest: Allow the baked beans to rest for about 10 minutes before serving to thicken further.

                  Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 2.5 hours | Servings: 6-8

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the baked beans in a rustic bowl for a homey feel. Garnish with finely chopped parsley or green onions for added color and freshness. It pairs perfectly with cornbread or grilled meats!