Baked beans are a classic American dish that is perfect for barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. While you can easily buy canned baked beans from the store, making them from scratch in a slow cooker is a game-changer. Not only do homemade baked beans taste better, but they are also healthier and more cost-effective. In this article, we will show you how to make delicious baked beans from scratch in a slow cooker.
Why Make Baked Beans from Scratch?
There are several reasons why you should make baked beans from scratch instead of buying them from the store. Here are a few:
- Better taste: Homemade baked beans have a richer, more complex flavor profile compared to canned beans. This is because you can use a variety of ingredients, such as onions, garlic, and spices, to create a deeper flavor.
- Healthier ingredients: When you make baked beans from scratch, you can control the amount of sugar, salt, and preservatives that go into them. This makes them a healthier option for you and your family.
- Cost-effective: While it may seem like buying canned baked beans is cheaper, making them from scratch can be more cost-effective in the long run. You can buy dried beans in bulk and use them to make a large batch of baked beans that can last for several meals.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make baked beans from scratch in a slow cooker, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 pound smoked bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 slow cooker (at least 6 quarts in size)
Soaking and Preparing the Beans
Before you can make baked beans, you need to soak and prepare the dried navy beans. Here’s how:
- Rinse the dried navy beans and pick out any debris or stones.
- Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Drain and rinse the beans again.
Cooking the Bacon and Onions
Cooking the bacon and onions is an important step in making baked beans. Here’s how:
- Cut the smoked bacon into 1-inch pieces and cook them in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it’s translucent and starting to caramelize.
Assembling the Baked Beans
Now it’s time to assemble the baked beans. Here’s how:
- Add the soaked and drained navy beans, cooked bacon, onion, garlic, ketchup, beef broth, brown sugar, mustard, cumin, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook the baked beans on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you make the best baked beans ever:
- Use a variety of beans: While navy beans are traditional in baked beans, you can also use other types of beans, such as kidney beans or pinto beans.
- Add some heat: If you like spicy food, you can add some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the baked beans.
- Use different types of bacon: While smoked bacon is traditional in baked beans, you can also use other types of bacon, such as applewood-smoked bacon or peppered bacon.
- Add some acidity: A splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice can help balance out the sweetness of the baked beans.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making baked beans from scratch:
- Not soaking the beans: Soaking the beans is an important step in making baked beans. If you don’t soak them, they may not cook properly and can be tough and chewy.
- Not cooking the bacon: Cooking the bacon is an important step in making baked beans. If you don’t cook it, the baked beans may not have enough flavor.
- Overcooking the beans: Baked beans can become mushy and overcooked if you cook them for too long. Make sure to check on them regularly and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Baked beans are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Serve with grilled meats: Baked beans are a classic side dish for grilled meats, such as burgers, hot dogs, and steaks.
- Serve with cornbread: Baked beans and cornbread are a match made in heaven. Try serving them together for a delicious and satisfying meal.
- Serve as a side dish: Baked beans can be served as a side dish for a variety of meals, such as roasted chicken or pork chops.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Here’s how to reheat leftovers:
- Reheat in the slow cooker: You can reheat leftovers in the slow cooker by adding a little bit of water or broth and cooking on low for 1-2 hours.
- Reheat in the oven: You can reheat leftovers in the oven by covering them with foil and baking at 250°F for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Reheat on the stovetop: You can reheat leftovers on the stovetop by adding a little bit of water or broth and simmering over low heat until warmed through.
In conclusion, making baked beans from scratch in a slow cooker is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this classic American dish. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a batch of baked beans that are perfect for barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings.
What is the benefit of making baked beans from scratch in a slow cooker?
Making baked beans from scratch in a slow cooker allows for a depth of flavor that cannot be replicated with store-bought beans. The slow cooking process breaks down the connective tissues in the beans, resulting in a tender and creamy texture. Additionally, by making the beans from scratch, you can control the amount of added salt and sugar, making it a healthier option.
The slow cooker method also makes it easy to prepare the beans, as it requires minimal hands-on time. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. This method is perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a delicious, home-cooked meal.
What type of beans is best for slow cooker baked beans?
The best type of beans for slow cooker baked beans is navy beans or Great Northern beans. These types of beans hold their shape well and have a mild flavor that pairs well with the sweet and tangy sauce. You can also use other types of white beans, such as cannellini or lima beans, but navy beans are the most traditional choice.
It’s best to use dried beans for this recipe, as they have a better texture and flavor than canned beans. Make sure to soak the beans overnight before cooking to reduce the cooking time and make them easier to digest.
Can I use ground beef or bacon in slow cooker baked beans?
Yes, you can use ground beef or bacon in slow cooker baked beans. In fact, many traditional recipes call for one or both of these ingredients. The smoky flavor of bacon pairs particularly well with the sweet and tangy sauce, while ground beef adds a heartier texture.
If using ground beef, brown it in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker to bring out the flavor. If using bacon, you can either crumble it into the slow cooker or use bacon bits. Keep in mind that using these ingredients will add extra fat and calories to the dish.
How long does it take to cook slow cooker baked beans?
The cooking time for slow cooker baked beans can vary depending on the type of beans used and the desired level of tenderness. Generally, it takes 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high to cook the beans until they are tender.
It’s best to cook the beans on low for a longer period of time to allow the flavors to meld together and the beans to absorb the sauce. You can also cook the beans on high for a shorter period of time if you’re short on time, but the results may not be as tender.
Can I make slow cooker baked beans ahead of time?
Yes, you can make slow cooker baked beans ahead of time. In fact, the beans are often better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. You can cook the beans and refrigerate or freeze them for later use.
If refrigerating, let the beans cool completely before refrigerating them. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If freezing, let the beans cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How do I serve slow cooker baked beans?
Slow cooker baked beans can be served as a side dish or as a main course. They’re a classic accompaniment to barbecue, grilled meats, and vegetables. You can also serve them with cornbread, crackers, or crusty bread for a filling meal.
If serving as a main course, you can add some protein such as grilled chicken, sausage, or bacon to make it more substantial. You can also add some diced vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes to add some extra flavor and nutrients.
Can I customize slow cooker baked beans to suit my taste?
Yes, you can customize slow cooker baked beans to suit your taste. The recipe is a basic template that can be modified to suit your preferences. You can add or subtract ingredients to change the flavor and texture of the beans.
Some ideas for customization include adding diced onions, garlic, or bell peppers for extra flavor, using different types of beans or tomatoes for a change of pace, or adding some heat with red pepper flakes or hot sauce. You can also experiment with different spices and herbs such as cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika to give the beans a unique flavor.