Side Dishes > Legume Sides > Beans (Side) > Simple Baked Beans Recipe

Speedy Canned Baked Beans with a Kick

Transform ordinary canned baked beans into a flavorful and satisfying side dish in minutes. This recipe uses simple additions to elevate the taste and make them taste homemade.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 28 oz Canned Baked Beans
  • 3 slices Bacon
  • 1/4 small Onion
  • 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Molasses
  • 1 teaspoon Mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon Chili Powder

Prepare the Bacon and Onion

Dice the bacon and onion finely. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving a small amount of bacon grease in the skillet. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients and Simmer

Add the canned baked beans, brown sugar, molasses, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and chili powder to the skillet with the cooked onion. Stir well to combine.

Simmer and Thicken

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together. If the beans seem too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water.

Serve

Stir in the cooked bacon just before serving. Serve the upgraded baked beans hot as a side dish. Garnish with extra bacon bits or a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 120kcal, Carbohydrates: 20g, Protein: 5g, Fat: 2g, Saturated Fat: 0.5g, Sodium: 350mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 8g (Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brand of canned beans and ingredient adjustments.)

Other Considerations for Nutrition

Canned baked beans often contain added sugar and sodium. Be mindful of portion sizes if you are watching your sugar or sodium intake. Adding fresh ingredients like bacon and onion can enhance the nutritional profile slightly.

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FAQ

  • Can I use a different type of beans?

    While this recipe is designed for canned baked beans, you could experiment with other canned bean varieties like kidney beans or pinto beans. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
  • Can I add other spices or seasonings?

    Absolutely! Feel free to add other spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce to customize the flavor to your liking.
  • Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

    Yes, you can omit the bacon for a vegetarian version. Consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to replicate the smoky flavor.