Brown Sugar Baked Beans

Name: Brown Sugar Baked Beans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 195 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 cups dried navy beans (soaked overnight); 1 large onion (diced); 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed); 1/4 cup molasses; 2 tbsp mustard powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 4 slices bacon (chopped); 4 cups water

195 min 8 servings Medium

All Recipes

Deliciously sweet and savoury brown sugar baked beans perfect for any occasion.

Prep

15 min

Cook

180 min

Total

195 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Brown Sugar Baked Beans are a comforting classic that brings warmth and flavour to any meal. Known for their sweet and savoury profile, these beans are a staple in many Canadian households, often served at family gatherings and outdoor BBQs. This version of baked beans features the rich sweetness of brown sugar and the robust depth of molasses, creating a delightful dish that is both hearty and satisfying. It's perfect for those who appreciate traditional comfort food with a touch of sweetness.

Instructions

Prepare beans

Drain and rinse the soaked navy beans. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 1 hour or until tender.

Pro tip: Soaking beans overnight reduces cooking time and improves texture.

Cook bacon

In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.

Pro tip: Use the bacon fat for added flavour in the beans.

Sauté onion

In the same skillet with bacon fat, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Cook onions until they are soft and fragrant but not browned.

Combine ingredients

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large casserole dish, combine the cooked beans, sautéed onions, bacon, brown sugar, molasses, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.

Pro tip: Mix ingredients thoroughly to ensure even flavour distribution.

Add water

Pour 4 cups of water over the bean mixture, ensuring the beans are submerged. Stir gently to combine.

Pro tip: Adjust water level to cover beans if necessary.

Bake

Cover the casserole dish with a lid or aluminium foil and bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours. Remove the cover in the last 30 minutes to allow the top to brown slightly.

Pro tip: Check beans occasionally to ensure they do not dry out; add more water if needed.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Soak the beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve texture.
Use molasses for a rich, deep flavour that complements the brown sugar.
Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste.
For a smoky flavour, add a pinch of smoked paprika.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes brown sugar beans sweet?

The sweetness in brown sugar baked beans comes from the brown sugar and molasses, which create a rich, sweet flavour.

How long do you bake brown sugar beans?

Brown sugar baked beans are baked for a total of 2 hours at 350°F (175°C).

Can I make brown sugar beans ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them ahead and store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

What can I serve with brown sugar beans?

They pair well with grilled meats, sausages, or as a topping on baked potatoes or toast.

How many calories are in a serving of brown sugar beans?

There are approximately 250 calories per serving of brown sugar baked beans.

Can brown sugar beans be made vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable oil to sauté the onions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Brown Sugar Baked Beans as a side dish at your next barbecue or family dinner. They pair beautifully with grilled meats, sausages, or even as a topping for toast or baked potatoes. To make ahead, prepare the beans and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven before serving. These beans also freeze well, making them a convenient option for meal planning.