Vegan Baked Bean Recipe Easy, Healthy, and Delicious

Baked beans are a classic comfort food loved by many, and making a vegan version that’s just as hearty and flavorful is easier than you might think. This vegan baked bean recipe combines tender beans with a rich and smoky tomato-based sauce that’s sweetened naturally and spiced to perfection.

Whether you’re looking for a nutritious side dish, a protein-packed main, or a crowd-pleasing potluck favorite, these baked beans deliver all the warmth and satisfaction you crave without any animal products.

Perfectly slow-baked to develop deep flavors, this recipe uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create a wholesome dish everyone can enjoy. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

If you love wholesome plant-based meals, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to cozy up with a bowl of these delicious vegan baked beans?

Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan baked bean recipe is a true winner for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly flavorful thanks to a combination of smoked paprika, maple syrup, and tangy tomato sauce that mimics the classic baked bean taste without any animal ingredients.

The beans themselves are tender and creamy, soaking up the sauce beautifully during baking.

It’s also a nutritious, protein-rich dish that’s perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone wanting a healthier comfort food option. The recipe is made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Plus, it’s versatile—you can serve it as a side, a main, or even use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

Finally, it’s an excellent make-ahead meal. The flavors improve after a day in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

If you enjoy other wholesome vegan recipes, you might also love our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried navy beans (or 3 cans of cooked beans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp mustard powder
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (use coconut aminos for soy-free)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/2 tsp chili flakes for heat

Equipment

• Large bowl (for soaking beans)
• Colander (for draining beans)
• Large pot or Dutch oven (oven-safe preferred)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and chopping board
• Oven
• Optional: Slow cooker if you prefer

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beans: If using dried navy beans, rinse them thoroughly and soak in water overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse again before cooking. If using canned beans, skip this step.
2. Cook the Beans: Place soaked beans in a large pot and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 60-90 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside. If using canned beans, simply rinse and drain them well.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In an oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Mix the Sauce: Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, mustard powder, and chili flakes if using. Mix well and cook for 3-4 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Combine Beans and Sauce: Add the cooked beans to the pot, then pour in the vegetable broth. Stir gently to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake the Beans: Cover the pot with a lid or foil and place in the preheated oven. Bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to prevent sticking. The sauce should thicken, and the beans should be soft and flavorful.
7. Adjust Seasoning: Remove from oven and taste. Adjust salt, pepper, or add a splash more vinegar or maple syrup if desired. Let the beans cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra smokiness, add a few drops of liquid smoke or smoked sea salt.

If you prefer a faster method, use canned beans and simmer the sauce on the stovetop for 30 minutes instead of baking.

Add diced bell peppers or chopped carrots with the onions for more vegetable goodness.

You can also make this dish in a slow cooker by combining all ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours. For a chunkier texture, mash some beans before baking.

Feel free to swap navy beans for cannellini or great northern beans depending on your preference.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan baked bean dish is wonderfully versatile. Serve it warm as a side with vegan sausages, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

It also makes a hearty topping for baked potatoes or toast for a quick and satisfying meal.

For a classic BBQ feast, pair it with grilled vegetables or our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to soak up all the rich sauce. It also works beautifully as a filling for vegan burritos or wraps with some fresh greens and avocado.

Conclusion

Making your own vegan baked beans is a rewarding way to enjoy a beloved comfort food with a wholesome twist. This recipe delivers big on flavor and nutrition, using simple ingredients and straightforward techniques to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a longtime plant-based eater, these beans offer a satisfying, crowd-pleasing option that fits easily into any meal plan.

Don’t hesitate to customize the spices and sweetness levels to suit your tastes, and experiment with adding veggies or switching up the beans. If you enjoyed this recipe, explore more delicious plant-based dishes like our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or the indulgent yet healthy Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

Happy cooking and enjoy your hearty, homemade vegan baked beans!

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