Go Back
The best baked beans start with the right beans. I recommend using dried navy beans or cannellini beans. These beans hold their shape well and have a nice texture when cooked. You can soak them overnight to make cooking easier. This helps soften the beans and cuts down on cooking time.

The Best Baked Beans

Discover the ultimate baked beans recipe that will elevate your next meal! This easy guide showcases the key ingredients, cooking methods, and customizable options to create the best baked beans full of rich flavors. Whether for BBQs or cozy family dinners, these beans will impress every guest. Ready to savor the perfect combination of sweet and spicy? Click through to explore the full recipe and make your next gathering a hit!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 cups dried navy beans (or cannellini beans), soaked overnight

4 cups vegetable broth

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup ketchup

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (vegan if preferred)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon mustard powder

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

4 strips of bacon (optional for non-vegetarians, substitute with smoked tempeh for vegetarians)

Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).

    Prepare the Beans: Drain and rinse the soaked beans. In a pot, combine the beans and vegetable broth, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer until beans are tender (about 45 minutes). Drain and set aside.

      Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a little oil if needed and sauté the diced onion for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

        Mix the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, mustard powder, cumin, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.

          Combine Everything: Add the cooked beans and sautéed onion and garlic to the sauce. Mix well to coat the beans.

            Transfer to Baking Dish: If using, chop the bacon or smoked tempeh into small pieces and mix in with the beans. Transfer the mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish.

              Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. After 1 hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes for a thicker consistency.

                Final Touch: Once baked, let it sit for 10 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

                  Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley just before serving.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 6-8