Introduction to Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to meal prep. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans. This dish is a warm hug in a bowl, packed with flavor and comfort. It’s not just easy to make; it practically cooks itself while you tackle other tasks! Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, these baked beans are sure to impress your loved ones while saving you valuable time in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans
You’ll adore these Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans for so many reasons! First, they’re incredibly easy to throw together—just mix the ingredients and let your slow cooker do the work. The comforting blend of flavors makes every bite a delightful surprise. Plus, the aroma wafting through your home is pure magic, inviting your loved ones to gather around the table. Who wouldn’t love that?
Ingredients for Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans
Let’s dive into the tasty building blocks of these Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in ensuring that your beans burst with flavor and comfort.
- Bacon: The star of the show! Diced bacon adds a crispy, savory element that enhances the depth of flavor.
- Yellow Onion: A staple in cooking, it adds sweetness and aromatic richness. When sautéed, it turns golden and soft, coaxing out its natural sugars.
- Garlic: Minced garlic brings a delightful punch, elevating the dish’s overall flavor profile with its distinct zest.
- Pinto Beans: Creamy and full of fiber, they are classic for baked beans. Rinsing ensures a clean taste, free from excess sodium.
- Kidney Beans: Their hearty texture adds substance. They’re packed with protein, making the dish more filling.
- Northern White Beans: These beans are mild and tender, contributing to that classic baked bean texture.
- Ketchup: A touch of sweetness and tang! Ketchup acts as a base, binding all the flavors together.
- Molasses: This rich, dark syrup contributes a complex sweetness that’s essential for authentic baked beans.
- Spicy BBQ Sauce: Adds a kick! You can opt for your favorite variety, whether sweet or spicy, to complement the flavors.
- Dark Brown Sugar: This gives a lovely caramelization, enhancing the sweetness without overpowering it. Coconut sugar is a great substitute if you’re looking for something less refined.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Just a splash adds umami and depth, making your beans round and well-seasoned.
- Yellow Mustard: This gives a tangy contrast, balancing the sweetness perfectly. Dijon can be used for a hint of sophistication!
Feel free to adjust these ingredients based on your preferences. Exact quantities can be found at the bottom of the article for easy reference and printing!
How to Make Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans
Ready to create some magical Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans? Let’s break it down step by step. Follow these simple directions, and you’ll soon have a pot of deliciousness on your hands!
Prepare the Bacon
Start by cooking the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium-low heat. You want it crispy and golden brown, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember to blot the bacon with paper towels afterward to soak up excess grease. This little step can make a big difference in keeping your beans from becoming too oily!
Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, let those delightful bacon drippings work their magic. Toss in your diced onion and cook for about 5-8 minutes until softened and slightly golden. Add in the minced garlic for the last minute. The aroma rivals any candle, and it’s the perfect flavor foundation for your beans!
Mix the Beans
Grab your slow cooker now! Add the drained pinto, kidney, and northern white beans. Rinsing and draining them is crucial for getting rid of any excess sodium and gunk from the cans. This ensures that your beans won’t become mushy messes in the final dish, keeping the textures just right.
Add the Flavorful Ingredients
Next, it’s time to amp up the flavors! Stir in the cooked bacon, sautéed onion and garlic, ketchup, molasses, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the flavors meld together in a glorious harmony that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Slow Cook the Beans
Finally, cover your slow cooker and set it to cook. You can choose high heat for 3-4 hours or low heat for 6-7 hours. Make sure to stir occasionally to guarantee even cooking. CAUTION: The smell will be irresistible, so it might be tough to wait!
Tips for Success
- Opt for high-quality bacon to enhance flavor; it makes a difference!
- Mix and match beans if you’re feeling adventurous; black beans or navy beans can add variety.
- Don’t skip the rinsing step; it truly helps with taste and texture.
- For a quicker cook time, soak your beans overnight if using dried beans.
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container; they taste even better the next day!
Equipment Needed
- Slow Cooker: Essential for this recipe. You can use any size, but a 6-quart is perfect for a family.
- Large Skillet: For cooking the bacon and sautéing the onions and garlic. A non-stick one makes it easier.
- Cutting Board and Knife: To chop your onions and garlic; a knife set you’re comfortable with works best.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ideal for accurate ingredient amounts, though a dash here and a splash there works too!
Variations of Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and substitute vegetable broth for a rich, smoky flavor without meat.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for some heat that will dance on your taste buds.
- Sweet and Savory: Swap in maple syrup for molasses and enjoy a delightful twist on sweetness.
- Tex-Mex Style: Incorporate black beans and corn, and mix in some taco seasoning for a bold flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mixture for an earthy aroma and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans with cornbread for a hearty meal that’s hard to beat.
- Serve alongside grilled meats like chicken or ribs to make it a BBQ feast.
- A fresh green salad complements the rich flavors perfectly.
- For drinks, try iced tea or a crisp lemonade to balance the savory dish.
FAQs about Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans
Let’s tackle some common questions about my Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans. These hopefully will clear up any of your culinary curiosities!
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just soak the dried beans overnight, then adjust cooking time to accommodate. It may take a bit longer, but the flavor is incredible!
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you’re longing for a kick, adding diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper does wonders. It turns up the heat without overpowering the classic flavor.
What can I substitute for liquid smoke?
If liquid smoke is elusive, simply add extra Worcestershire sauce for that deep, smoky undertone. It helps replicate that rich flavor profile beautifully.
Can I freeze the baked beans?
Yes, you can! After cooking, allow them to cool completely. Then, store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just remember, they taste even better when reheated!
Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
This recipe can easily be made vegan or gluten-free. Just omit the bacon and check labels on sauces to ensure they’re suitable for your diet.
Final Thoughts
Cooking my Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans has always been a joyful adventure in my kitchen. The blend of flavors and aromas fills my home with warmth, reminding me of family gatherings and barbecues. It’s a recipe that not only satisfies the heart but also the stomach, all while accommodating my busy schedule. I love knowing that I’m serving my loved ones something both comforting and delicious. So, next time you’re short on time but want to impress, give these baked beans a whirl. Trust me, they’ll become a staple in your home too!
Print
Homemade Slow Cooker Baked Beans: Easy & Delicious Recipe!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours
- Total Time: 6-7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy recipe for homemade slow cooker baked beans with a mix of flavors and ingredients.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces uncooked bacon, diced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can northern white beans, rinsed and drained
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup molasses
- ¼ cup spicy BBQ sauce (or your favorite BBQ sauce, sweet if preferred)
- ½ cup packed dark brown sugar (or substitute coconut sugar)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tablespoon yellow mustard (or substitute Dijon mustard)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium-low heat until crispy and golden brown. Blot with paper towels and set aside.
- Drain the excess bacon grease, leaving a little in the pan. Add the diced onion and cook for 5-8 minutes, until softened and slightly golden. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
- In a slow cooker, add the drained pinto, kidney, and northern beans. Add in the cooked bacon and the sautéed onion and garlic mixture.
- Stir in the ketchup, molasses, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Mix well.
- Cover and cook the beans on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-7 hours, until tender and flavorful. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth.
- Adjust the sweetness by reducing or increasing the amount of brown sugar and molasses.
- This dish can be served as a side or as a main dish with rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
