When it comes to feeding a large group, nothing beats a hearty dish of baked beans. This recipe serves 60 people, making it perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or family gatherings. The combination of tender beans, rich tomato sauce, and savory seasonings creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will love.
These baked beans are not only easy to prepare but also allow for some flexibility. You can adjust the sweetness or spice level to suit your taste, making it a customizable dish that caters to all palates.
Overview of Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic dish known for their comforting qualities and rich flavors. They often take center stage at gatherings, providing a hearty option that appeals to many.
The combination of tender beans simmered in a luscious tomato sauce, paired with crispy bacon and savory onions, creates a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. This recipe caters to larger groups, making it ideal for potlucks and family reunions.
Ingredients That Shine
A variety of ingredients come together to create this beloved dish. The base of navy beans is enhanced with a sweet and tangy tomato sauce, achieved through the use of ketchup, brown sugar, and molasses.
The addition of crumbled bacon brings a savory crunch, while diced onions contribute to the overall flavor profile. Mustard powder and garlic powder add depth, ensuring each bite is packed with taste.
Preparation Steps
Getting started with baked beans is straightforward. Begin by preheating your oven, allowing it to reach the right temperature for baking. In a large mixing bowl, combine the main ingredients, ensuring everything is mixed evenly.
Once prepared, transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Covering with aluminum foil initially helps lock in moisture, allowing the beans to cook properly before the final bake. The final uncovered baking time encourages a wonderful bubbling effect, thickening the sauce for a delightful finish.
Cooking Time and Serving Suggestions
This dish requires a total of about two hours, half of which is spent baking covered. Allowing it to cool slightly before serving enhances the flavors and makes it easier to dish out.
Pair these baked beans with your favorite side dishes, such as cornbread or coleslaw, to create a well-rounded meal that pleases a crowd. They also make a delicious accompaniment to grilled meats, offering a perfect contrast of flavors.
Nutrition Information
For those mindful of nutrition, these baked beans provide a satisfying option with reasonable caloric content. Each serving contains around 210 calories, making it a hearty yet manageable side.
With 6 grams of fat and a notable 8 grams of protein, they deliver not only comfort but also nutrition. The carbohydrate content rounds out the meal, providing energy for your guests throughout the gathering.
Final Thoughts on Baked Beans
Baked beans bring warmth and comfort to any meal, embodying the essence of gathering around a table. Their rich flavors and hearty texture make them a staple at family events and casual get-togethers alike.
Preparing a large batch ensures that there’s enough to go around, making them a reliable choice for feeding a crowd. With the flexibility to adjust sweetness or spice levels, this dish can be tailored to suit diverse palates, ensuring everyone enjoys a fulfilling dining experience.
Deliciously Sweet and Savory Baked Beans
This classic baked beans dish offers a delightful balance of sweetness from brown sugar and molasses, complemented by the savory richness of bacon and onions. Each bite is a comforting experience, making it a beloved staple at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 15 cans (15 oz each) of navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups ketchup
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1 cup molasses
- 1 1/2 cups diced onions
- 1 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 teaspoons mustard powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 cups water
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed navy beans, ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, diced onions, crumbled bacon, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add Water: Stir in the water until everything is evenly combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a large, greased baking dish (or multiple smaller dishes if needed).
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. After the hour is up, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the beans are bubbling and thickened.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious baked beans with your favorite sides!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Servings: 60 servings
- Calories: 210 kcal per serving
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 34g