If you’re looking for a hearty comfort food that is perfect for family gatherings and cookouts, look no further than these delectable Slow Cooker Baked Beans. This homemade recipe delivers a rich, sweet-savory flavor combination that your loved ones will adore. Utilizing a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, freeing your time for other tasks or simply relaxing while your dish cooks. Say goodbye to canned varieties and hello to a wholesome, delicious version that will leave everyone wanting more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the standout features of this slow cooker baked beans recipe is its delightful blend of flavors. The combination of smoky bacon, assorted beans, and zesty sauces creates a perfect harmony that is simply irresistible. Moreover, the hands-off cooking method allows you to focus on your guests rather than the stove! Whether served as a side dish for grilled meats or as the main attraction at a potluck, you’ll appreciate its versatility and satisfying taste.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces bacon
- 1 yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans
- 1 (15 ounce) can northern white beans
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup molasses
- ¼ cup spicy BBQ sauce
- ½ cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tablespoon yellow mustard
Tools and Preparation
To make your slow cooker baked beans, you will need a few essential kitchen tools:
- Large skillet
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon for mixing
Start by prepping your bacon, onion, and garlic while gathering your beans and sauces!
How to Make Slow Cooker Baked Beans
- In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy and golden brown. Use a paper towel to blot out excess grease and allow the bacon to cool.
- Drain the bacon grease, leaving just a small amount in the pan. Add in the diced onion and sauté for about 5-8 minutes until it starts to turn golden brown. During the last minute of cooking, add minced garlic.
- Now, in your slow cooker, add the drained and rinsed pinto, kidney, and northern white beans. Include the cooked bacon along with the onion and garlic mixture.
- Stir in the ketchup, molasses, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard until you have a well-combined mixture.
- Cover with the lid and set your slow cooker to cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours.
How to Serve Your Baked Beans
Once your baked beans have finished cooking, give them a good stir and taste for seasoning; adjust if necessary. Serve hot directly from the slow cooker. These baked beans are delicious on their own or as a side for barbecued meats, grilled sausages, or served at potluck gatherings. They are sure to be a hit at any occasion!
Tips for Success
- For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
- If you’re looking to make your baked beans vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and add a pinch of liquid smoke for a similar depth of flavor.
- Don’t rush the cooking time; allowing the beans to cook slowly lets their flavors fully develop.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not draining and rinsing the beans can lead to a too-salty final product, so make sure to do this step!
- Cooking on high when you can use low can alter the texture of the beans; slower cooking is generally preferable.
- Remember to taste and adjust seasonings before serving for the best flavor!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the beans if they thicken while stored.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you will need to soak and cook them before adding them to the recipe.
How do I make baked beans spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for that extra kick!
What pairs well with baked beans?
These beans pair wonderfully with cornbread, coleslaw, or a variety of grilled meats.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Baked Beans are a delightful dish, combining sweet and savory flavors in a simple, hands-off preparation. Ideal for any gathering, you’ll find it hard to stop at just one serving! Enjoy this comforting classic today!
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Slow Cooker Baked Beans
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
Make hearty and flavorful Slow Cooker Baked Beans with a blend of beans, savory bacon, and zesty sauces. This simple dish is perfect for gatherings!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces bacon
- 1 yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans
- 1 (15 ounce) can northern white beans
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup molasses
- ¼ cup spicy BBQ sauce
- ½ cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tablespoon yellow mustard
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon…: In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy and golden brown. Use a paper towel to blot out excess grease and allow the bacon to cool.
- Drain the bacon grease, leaving just a small amount in the pan: Drain the bacon grease, leaving just a small amount in the pan. Add in the diced onion and sauté for about 5-8 minutes until it starts to turn golden brown. During the last minute of cooking, add minced garlic.
- In your slow cooker, add the drained and…: In your slow cooker, add the drained and rinsed pinto, kidney, and northern white beans. Include the cooked bacon along with the onion and garlic mixture.
- Stir in the ketchup, molasses, BBQ sauce, brown…: Stir in the ketchup, molasses, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard until you have a well-combined mixture.
- Cover with the lid and set your slow…: Cover with the lid and set your slow cooker to cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours.
Notes
Beans can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. For vegetarian beans, omit bacon and switch to a plant-based alternative.
Cook Time: 6-7 hours
Total Time: 6-7 hours and 10 minutes
The displayed total follows the reference recipe’s high-setting method. The cooking instructions also allow 3–4 hours on high or 6–7 hours on low; allow additional time for the slower option.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Dinner Ideas
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
