Baked beans are a timeless comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners, picnics, or a hearty side dish. This vegetarian baked beans recipe brings a delicious twist to the classic, using wholesome ingredients that pack rich flavor without any meat.
Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian, trying to eat more plant-based meals, or simply want to enjoy a nutritious and satisfying dish, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
With a balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy notes, these baked beans are incredibly versatile. They’re easy to make ahead and reheat beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep or entertaining guests.
Plus, this recipe is customizable, so you can add your favorite spices or veggies to suit your taste. Dive into this hearty, fiber-rich dish that’s not only delicious but also nourishing and budget-friendly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian baked beans recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings for a comforting, home-cooked meal. It’s:
- Nutritious and filling – packed with protein and fiber from beans and wholesome ingredients.
- Easy to prepare – minimal prep and mostly hands-off baking time.
- Customizable – add your favorite veggies, spices, or even a dash of hot sauce to make it your own.
- Great for meal prep – makes excellent leftovers and freezes well.
- Perfectly balanced flavors – sweet, smoky, and tangy notes make every bite memorable.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked navy beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for umami)
Equipment
- Large oven-safe baking dish (around 8×8 inches or similar)
- Medium skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Oven mitts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the beans bake evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the tomato sauce, molasses, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, smoked paprika, ground mustard, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir until well blended.
- Mix beans and sauce: In your baking dish, add the cooked navy beans. Pour the sautéed onion and garlic over the beans, then pour the sauce mixture on top. Add the vegetable broth and gently stir everything together, ensuring the beans are evenly coated.
- Bake uncovered: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring every 15-20 minutes. This helps the beans absorb the sauce and develop a thick, rich texture. If the mixture looks dry, add a splash more vegetable broth during baking.
- Final touches: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or sweetness to suit your preference.
- Serve warm: Enjoy your delicious vegetarian baked beans as a main or side dish.
Tips & Variations
“For extra depth, try adding a smoky chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or a few drops of liquid smoke.”
- Beans: Swap navy beans with great northern, cannellini, or pinto beans for a different texture.
- Sweetener: Adjust the sweetness by using maple syrup, agave nectar, or even date syrup.
- Veggies: Add diced bell peppers, carrots, or celery to the sauté step for a veggie boost.
- Spices: Experiment with cumin, coriander, or even a pinch of cinnamon for unique flavor notes.
- Make it smoky: Add smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky kick without meat.
- Meal prep: This dish freezes beautifully. Store leftovers in airtight containers and reheat when ready.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Protein | 15 g |
Carbohydrates | 45 g |
Fiber | 12 g |
Sugars | 10 g |
Fat | 4 g |
Sodium | 520 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Baked beans are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are some tasty ways to serve them:
- On top of whole grain toast for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
- Alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a light meal.
- With your favorite vegan sausages or burgers for a classic combo.
- As a filling for baked potatoes or stuffed peppers.
- Accompanied by warm crusty bread, such as the Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe or the Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe.
Conclusion
This vegetarian baked beans recipe is a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire. It’s simple to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and delivers a comforting, smoky, and sweet flavor that everyone will enjoy.
Its flexibility means you can easily tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, these baked beans bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy trying other comforting dishes like the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or indulging in a sweet treat with the Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Baked Beans Recipe Vegetarian N
Description: A hearty vegetarian baked beans recipe with rich tomato sauce and spices. Perfect as a side dish or a main meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT1H
Total Time: PT1H15M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried navy beans
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 3 tbsp molasses
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups vegetable broth
Instructions
- Soak beans overnight in water.
- Drain and rinse beans, then place in a pot with vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 45 minutes until tender.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Mix cooked beans, sautéed onion and garlic, crushed tomatoes, molasses, tomato paste, vinegar, mustard, maple syrup, smoked paprika, and pepper in a baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 1.5 g | Carbs: 55 g
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