Baked Beans Recipe With Canned Beans Vegetarian Delight

Baked beans are a classic comfort food beloved by many for their rich, smoky flavor and hearty texture. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side dish or a delicious addition to your vegetarian barbecue, this baked beans recipe with canned beans is perfect.

Using canned beans means you can whip up a wholesome, flavorful meal in no time without sacrificing taste or nutrition. This vegetarian version skips the meat but keeps all the depth and warmth you’d expect from traditional baked beans.

With a blend of spices, tangy tomato sauce, and a hint of sweetness, every bite bursts with flavor.

Not only is this recipe easy and budget-friendly, but it’s also incredibly versatile. It’s a great way to add plant-based protein to your diet and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes.

So, if you’re ready to dive into a cozy bowl of baked beans that’s both nutritious and satisfying, keep reading!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian baked beans recipe is a fantastic choice for several reasons.

• Quick and Easy: Using canned beans cuts down on cooking time drastically, making it perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful and Balanced: The combination of tomato, molasses, mustard, and spices creates a rich, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor profile.
• Nutritious: Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, these beans will keep you full and energized.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish, main course, or even as a topping for toast or baked potatoes.
• Vegetarian Friendly: This recipe skips the meat but keeps all the traditional charm, making it suitable for vegetarians and those reducing meat consumption.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) of navy beans or great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a little heat)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth

Equipment

• Medium mixing bowl
• Oven-safe baking dish (about 8×8 inches or similar)
• Skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Aluminum foil (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Sauté the aromatics: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Prepare the sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the tomato sauce, molasses, brown sugar, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Combine beans and sauce: Add the rinsed beans and sautéed onion-garlic mixture to the bowl with the sauce. Stir gently to coat all the beans evenly.
5. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the bean mixture into your oven-safe baking dish. Add the 1/4 cup of water or vegetable broth to keep the beans moist during baking. Stir lightly.
6. Bake: Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and caramelize slightly.
7. Check and adjust: After baking, taste the beans and adjust seasoning if necessary. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
8. Serve warm: Enjoy your baked beans hot as a side or main dish.

Tips & Variations

For a deeper smoky flavor, consider adding a splash of liquid smoke or smoked salt.

If you prefer a chunkier texture, add diced bell peppers or chopped tomatoes before baking.

For an extra protein boost, stir in some cooked lentils or chopped tempeh.

To make it vegan, ensure your brown sugar is unrefined and free of bone char.

• Sweetener swap: Substitute maple syrup or agave for molasses for a different sweetness profile.
• Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or smoked chipotle powder if you like your beans spicy.
• Beans variety: Use pinto beans or kidney beans for a different texture and taste.
• Make it a stew: Add vegetable broth and diced carrots or celery to turn this into a hearty bean stew.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian baked beans recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many dishes.

• Serve alongside freshly baked sourdough hamburger buns for a classic picnic meal.
• Top your morning toast or English muffins to start the day with a hearty protein boost.
• Pair with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced vegetarian dinner.
• Use as a filling in burritos or wraps along with rice and avocado for a satisfying lunch.
• Try it as a side dish with grilled tofu or vegetable skewers.

Conclusion

This baked beans recipe with canned beans is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food without the fuss. It combines the convenience of canned beans with a delicious homemade sauce that’s smoky, sweet, and tangy all at once.

Perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious and filling. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or a weekend barbecue side, these baked beans will become a staple in your recipe collection.

Don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations to make it your own! For more delicious recipes, check out our Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce and the Glazed Twist Donut Recipe for perfect sweet treats to complement your meals.

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