Homestyle Baked Beans

baked beans are a comforting and flavorful side dish that's perfect for any family meal. With a rich, homemade sauce and tender beans, they bring a warm, hearty touch to your table every time.

Kitchen Advice

Soak the beans overnight for a creamier texture and faster cooking time.
Stir occasionally during baking to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan.
Use a mix of brown sugar and molasses for a deeper, richer sweetness.

Ingredients 0/7

10 cups water 2 cups dried navy beans 8 slices crisply cooked bacon, crumbled ½ cup chopped onion ½ cup packed brown sugar ¼ cup molasses 1 teaspoon salt

Reasons You'll Love It

This dish offers a comforting blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that remind many of home-cooked meals. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners. The rich sauce and tender beans make it a hearty and satisfying choice.

Directions

Bring 10 cups of water and the navy beans to a boil in a large pot. Let them boil for about 2 minutes, then add the bacon, onion, brown sugar, molasses, and salt right into the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine. Carefully transfer the whole mixture into your slow cooker. Cook on high, stirring every now and then, for about 4 hours. After that, stir in 3 more cups of water and keep cooking until the beans are nice and tender, which should take another 2 hours or so.

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By David Brown

David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.

Serving Advice

Serve alongside grilled meats, cornbread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with a fresh green salad or coleslaw to add a crisp, refreshing contrast.

Food Storage Guide

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned beans instead of dried navy beans?

It's best to use dried navy beans because they absorb flavors and cook properly in this recipe. Canned beans may become too soft or mushy.

Do I have to cook the beans on high in the slow cooker?

Yes, cooking on high helps the beans soften within the suggested time. You can cook on low for a longer period, but timing will vary.

Can I skip the bacon or use a vegetarian alternative?

Yes, you can omit the bacon or use smoked paprika or a plant-based bacon substitute for a vegetarian version.

Why do I add more water after 4 hours?

Adding 3 cups of water prevents the beans from drying out and helps them continue cooking to a tender consistency.

How often should I stir the beans during cooking?

Stir every 30 to 45 minutes to keep the beans from sticking to the slow cooker and ensure even cooking.

Can I prepare this recipe in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, but you'll need to simmer the beans gently on low heat, stirring often, and it may take less time to cook.

Is it necessary to boil the beans before putting them in the slow cooker?

Boiling briefly helps start the cooking process and reduces overall slow cooker time.

How do I store leftovers and how long do they keep?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.