Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Flavorful: Uses pantry staples with minimal prep for big taste.
- Sweet & Savory: Balance of brown sugar, molasses, and rich seasonings creates depth.
- Perfect for Gatherings: A classic side that complements grilled meats and more.
- Baked to Perfection: Slow baking melds flavors and thickens the sauce beautifully.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cooking spray
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 (15-ounce) cans beans in tomato sauce, drained
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/3 cup dark brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/2 cup sorghum syrup or molasses
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 11×7-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onion until tender, about 7 minutes.
- In the greased baking dish, combine sautéed onions, drained beans, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, dry mustard, and sorghum syrup or molasses. Mix well.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes or until bubbly and thickened.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6 to 8
Active Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Variations
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for heat.
- Sweeteners: Substitute honey or maple syrup for sorghum syrup or molasses.
- Beans: Use baked beans or pinto beans for variety.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use homemade beans instead of canned?
Yes, but cooking time may increase.
What is sorghum syrup?
A natural sweetener similar to molasses, often used in Southern cooking.
Can I make this recipe ahead?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate before baking; add extra baking time if cold.
How do I prevent beans from drying out?
Cover with foil if baking longer or add a splash of water or broth.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust cooking time accordingly.
What sides pair well?
Coleslaw, cornbread, grilled meats, or potato salad.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, diced bell peppers or jalapeños add flavor and texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Check labels on Worcestershire sauce and ketchup to ensure gluten-free.
How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce brown sugar and molasses quantities to taste.
Conclusion
This Homemade Baked Beans recipe offers a rich, flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion. With sweet, savory, and smoky notes complemented by tender beans, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or barbecue.
Homemade Baked Beans
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Homemade Baked Beans are a classic, sweet and savory side dish with tender beans baked in a rich sauce made from pantry staples, perfect for gatherings and barbecues.
Ingredients
Cooking spray
1 small onion, diced
4 (15-ounce) cans beans in tomato sauce, drained
1/2 cup ketchup
1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup dark brown sugar, firmly packed
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 cup sorghum syrup or molasses
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 11×7-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Sauté diced onion in skillet over medium heat until tender, about 7 minutes.
- In the baking dish, combine sautéed onions, drained beans, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, dry mustard, and sorghum syrup or molasses. Mix well.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes or until bubbly and thickened.
Notes
Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for heat.
Substitute honey or maple syrup for sorghum syrup/molasses.
Try baked beans or pinto beans for variety.
Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Store leftovers airtight in fridge up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave.
Freeze up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Cover with foil if baking longer to prevent drying.
Reduce sugar and molasses for less sweetness.
Check Worcestershire and ketchup for gluten-free options.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
