Go Back
To make the best baked beans, you need simple yet flavorful ingredients. First, use dry navy beans as your base. They are small and creamy, perfect for baking. You can also try other small white beans for variety.

The Best Baked Beans

Elevate your meals with the best baked beans recipe everyone will love! This simple guide shares everything from choosing the right beans to adding delicious flavors like brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika. Perfect for picnics or family gatherings, these baked beans are sure to impress. Click through to explore the full recipe and discover variations that will delight your taste buds!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 cups dry navy beans (or any small white beans)

4 cups water (for soaking)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup maple syrup

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (non-alcoholic)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup diced cooked bacon or vegetarian bacon (optional)

Instructions
 

Soak the Beans: Place the dry navy beans in a large bowl and cover with 4 cups of water. Let them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.

    Cook the Beans: In a large pot, add the soaked beans and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook beans for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Flavor Base: In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked beans to the pot along with brown sugar, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

          Mix in Bacon (if using): If you opted for bacon, fold it into the mixture now.

            Bake the Beans: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours in the preheated oven, stirring occasionally. The beans should be thick, sweet, and smoky.

              Final Touch: Check the beans about 15 minutes before they're done. If they're too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen them. Adjust the seasoning if needed.

                Serve: Once finished, allow the beans to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors meld together.

                  Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 12 hours (soaking + 2.5 hours cooking) | Servings: 6-8

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve in a bright dish or individual ramekins for a charming look. Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley for a pop of color!