Creamy Baked Beans are like warm hugs on a plate, offering a velvety texture and a symphony of flavors with each bite. Imagine the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen as these beans bubble away in the oven, ready to steal the show at your next barbecue or family gathering. For more inspiration, check out this honey garlic butter roasted carrots recipe.
Every scoop is a delightful blend of sweetness and smokiness, making it hard to resist going back for seconds (or thirds). This dish has been a staple in my family for years, often accompanying our summer cookouts where laughter and stories are shared over plates piled high with delicious food. You can almost hear the beans whispering, “Eat me!”
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy baked beans recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, fitting perfectly into any meal plan
- The deep, rich flavors and creamy texture make it an irresistible side dish that will impress your guests
- With its vibrant presentation, this dish is sure to be the star of your dinner table
- Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in!
Ingredients for Creamy Baked Beans
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Canned Navy Beans: These little legumes are the base of our dish, providing creaminess and protein without the fuss of soaking dried beans.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor that elevates the baked beans from ordinary to extraordinary.
Onion: Sautéed onion brings sweetness and depth; choose a yellow onion for balance.
Brown Sugar: This sweetener gives that caramelized goodness; light or dark works well depending on how deep you want that flavor.
Ketchup: A classic ingredient that adds tanginess and ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Mustard: A touch of mustard provides zing and balances out the sweetness wonderfully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Baked Beans
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab your trusty baking dish because things are about to get delicious.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook about six slices of bacon until they’re crispy. Set them aside on paper towels (we’ll use their tasty fat later). Don’t forget to enjoy a piece or two—quality control is essential!
Step 3: Sauté the Onion
Using the same skillet with some bacon drippings (yes, please!), add one chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and golden brown. The smell alone should have you doing a happy dance in your kitchen.
Step 4: Mix It Up
In a large bowl, combine drained canned navy beans, cooked onions, crumbled bacon (remember that quality control?), half a cup of ketchup, two tablespoons of brown sugar, and one tablespoon of mustard. Stir until everything’s coated in that fabulous mixture!
Step 5: Bake Away
Transfer the mixture into your greased baking dish. Cover it with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes so those flavors can meld beautifully.
Step 6: Serve with Glee
Once golden brown and bubbly, take them out of the oven and let them sit for five minutes before diving in. Serve hot as an unforgettable side at your next gathering!
With this creamy baked beans recipe under your belt, you’ll be known as the culinary superstar among friends and family. Trust me—these beans might just become everyone’s favorite comfort food! For more inspiration, check out this creamy mushroom and asparagus penne recipe.
You Must Know
- Creamy baked beans are not just a side dish; they’re a culinary hug in a bowl!
- With their rich flavors and comforting texture, they can elevate any meal
- You can serve them at barbecues, potlucks, or even as a cozy dinner for one
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by soaking the beans overnight to soften them. Then, sauté onions and garlic in a pot before adding in the soaked beans. creamy garlic sauce Simmer everything together with your favorite spices and sauces until it reaches that creamy perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your creamy baked beans by adding bacon for a smoky flavor or incorporating diced tomatoes for extra tang. Swap in different spices or sweeteners to match your taste preferences and make this dish uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover creamy baked beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly creamy baked beans, always soak your beans overnight to reduce cooking time
- Use quality canned tomatoes for added flavor if you’re short on time
- Experiment with spices like smoked paprika for that extra depth of flavor
I remember the first time I made creamy baked beans for my family’s Fourth of July barbecue. They disappeared faster than fireworks in the sky, leaving everyone asking for seconds!
FAQs:
What are Creamy Baked Beans?
Creamy baked beans are a delicious and comforting dish made from white beans cooked in a rich, creamy sauce. The sauce often includes ingredients such as bacon, onions, brown sugar, and mustard to enhance the flavor. This dish is perfect as a side for barbecues or family dinners. The creaminess comes from the addition of dairy products like sour cream or cheese, making it an indulgent treat that everyone loves.
How do I store leftover Creamy Baked Beans?
To store leftover creamy baked beans, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the beans in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring there’s minimal air inside. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I make Creamy Baked Beans ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare creamy baked beans ahead of time for convenience. Make the recipe up to the baking stage and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Santa Fe chicken foil packets When you’re ready to serve, just bake it according to the recipe instructions. This allows flavors to meld beautifully for a tastier dish.
What can I serve with Creamy Baked Beans?
Creamy baked beans pair wonderfully with various dishes. They complement grilled meats like ribs or chicken, making them ideal for summer barbecues. You can also serve them alongside cornbread or coleslaw for a complete meal. Their richness balances out lighter dishes perfectly, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying and hearty dinner.
Conclusion for Creamy Baked Beans:
In conclusion, creamy baked beans offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that elevate any meal. Their rich creaminess makes them an irresistible side dish perfect for gatherings and family dinners alike. Remember that you can customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or ingredients to suit your taste preferences. turkey taco rice bowl With easy storage options and preparation methods available, creamy baked beans can easily become a regular on your dinner table!
Creamy Baked Beans
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Baked Beans are the ultimate comfort food, featuring a luscious texture and a delightful blend of sweet and smoky flavors. This dish is perfectly baked until golden brown, making it an irresistible side for barbecues, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. With crispy bacon and sautéed onions in every bite, Creamy Baked Beans are sure to steal the show at any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) Navy Beans, drained and rinsed
- 6 slices Bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup Ketchup
- 2 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 1 tbsp Mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy; set aside.
- Sauté onion in bacon drippings until soft.
- In a large bowl, combine navy beans, sautéed onion, crumbled bacon, ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard; mix well.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
