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To make the best baked beans, you need simple, tasty ingredients. The main star is the navy bean. These beans are small, white, and cook up soft. They soak up flavors well, making them perfect for this dish.

The Best Baked Beans

Elevate your cooking with the best baked beans recipe that's simple and full of flavor! This guide provides essential tips, key ingredients, and delightful variations to impress everyone at your table. Perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs, you'll learn how to achieve that creamy texture and rich taste. Ready to make delicious baked beans? Click through to explore the full recipe and transform your meals today!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups dried navy beans (or canned, drained and rinsed)

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup molasses

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup ketchup

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped (optional for a smoky flavor)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

4 cups vegetable broth (or water)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Soak the Beans: If using dried navy beans, rinse and soak them overnight in plenty of water. Drain before cooking.

    Pre-cook the Beans: In a large pot, add soaked beans and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour or until tender. Drain and set aside.

      Cook the Bacon: In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. If not using bacon, skip to step 5.

        Sauté Aromatics: Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot. Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

          Combine Ingredients: Stir in the molasses, brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and a bit of salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

            Add Beans and Broth: Fold in the cooked navy beans, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.

              Bake the Beans: Cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Bake for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally. If it becomes too thick, add a splash more broth or water as needed.

                Final Touch: If you reserved bacon, sprinkle it on top of the beans in the last 20 minutes of baking for added crunch and flavor.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once baked to your desired thickness, remove from the oven. Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.

                    Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 3 hr (including soaking & baking) | Servings: 6-8