Baked Beans

The Perfect Combination of Ingredients

To make this incredible dish, gather these key ingredients:

• 1 lb. Bacon

• 1 lb. Ground Beef

• 1 lb. Pulled Pork

• 15 oz. Kidney Beans

• 15 oz. Butter Beans

• 15 oz. Pork and Beans

• 15 oz. Great Northern Beans

• 15 oz. Pinto Beans

• 15 oz. Lima Beans

• 1 Large Diced Onion

• 4 Cloves Minced Garlic

• ¼ cup Molasses

• ¼ cup Honey

• 1 tbsp. Worcestershire Sauce

• 1 tbsp. Yellow Mustard

• ½ cup Ketchup

• ½ cup Apple Cider Vinegar

• 1 tsp Chili Powder

• ¾ cup Light Brown Sugar

• Salt and Pepper to taste

  
  

This combination results in a rich flavor profile, with different beans providing various textures and the meats producing a smoky, savory essence. Did you know that beans are a great source of plant-based protein? They can help enhance the nutrition of your dish while keeping it hearty.

Cooking Process: Step by Step

1. Prepare the Meats: Begin by cooking the ground beef and bacon in a large skillet. For an ideal texture, crisp the bacon—this will take about 5-7 minutes. Reserve the rendered bacon grease for added depth of flavor.

   
   

2. Beans Rinse: Drain and rinse all the beans except the pork and beans. This step removes excess sodium, ensuring your baked beans won’t be overly salty. Studies show that rinsing canned beans can reduce their sodium content by about 40%.

   
   

3. Sauté the Aromatics: Chop your onion and garlic, sautéing them in the reserved bacon grease for 3-4 minutes or until fragrant. This key step brings out the incredible flavors that will enhance your dish.

   
   

4. Combine Everything: In the skillet, add the rinsed beans, cooked meats, and remaining ingredients. Stir well to ensure even distribution of flavor among all components.

   
   

5. Low and Slow Cooking: Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker or large pot. Cook on low for three hours, allowing the ingredients to mingle and develop a rich, savory flavor profile. If you’re using the stovetop, simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

   
   

Serving Suggestions & Storage

When serving your ultimate baked beans, choose a rustic dish to enhance that classic BBQ feel. Keep in mind that these beans taste great served hot and also make fabulous leftovers. Store any extras in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Reheating is a breeze; simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop before enjoying them again.

A steaming pot of delicious baked beans ready to serve