These homemade baked beans are rich, hearty, and full of comforting flavor. Slow-baked in a sweet and savory sauce, they’re far better than anything from a can. Perfect as a side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. Simple ingredients, big homemade taste!
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried navy beans (or pinto beans)
- 6 cups water (for soaking & cooking)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp molasses
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups bean cooking liquid or water
Instructions
- Soak beans overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse.
- Add soaked beans to a pot, cover with fresh water, and simmer for 45–60 minutes until tender. Reserve cooking liquid.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a baking dish, combine cooked beans, onion, tomato paste, ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, mustard, spices, and 2 cups reserved liquid.
- Cover and bake for 2 hours, stirring once halfway.
- Uncover and bake another 30 minutes until thick and saucy. Serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For smoky flavor, add ½ tsp smoked paprika.
- Prefer sweeter beans? Increase brown sugar slightly.
- Make it spicy with chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Add cooked bacon or sausage for a heartier version.
- Slow cooker option: cook on LOW for 6–7 hours.
