Fast and easy Baked beans

Even for the most passionate cooks, there are times when the fridge is nearly empty, and cooking feels like too much effort. In these situations, finding a simple, quick recipe with just a few ingredients can be a real lifesaver. That’s where baked beans come in – a dish that requires very few ingredients, comes together in no time, and delivers a rich, delicious result. All it takes are some basic ingredients and just a few minutes to make a flavorful, satisfying meal.

How to Make Baked Beans

To start, finely chop the onion to help it blend well during cooking, releasing its full flavor. Then, cut the sausage and bacon into large pieces; this way, they’ll become crispy on the outside and stay juicy inside. Drain the canned beans using a strainer to remove excess liquid.

Add a drizzle of oil to a cast-iron skillet and set it over medium heat. Add the sausage and bacon pieces, letting them cook for a few minutes until lightly browned. Then add the chopped onion and sauté for a few more minutes until the onion turns translucent.

Stir in the drained beans, a few sprigs of rosemary, and a generous spoonful of tomato paste for added flavor and color. Season with salt and pepper, then mix well to blend the ingredients. Let it cook over medium heat for about 7-8 minutes, so the flavors meld perfectly. Serve the baked beans hot, and enjoy!

Cooking Time for Baked Beans

The cooking time for baked beans depends on the type of beans you choose. If you’re looking for a quick and easy solution, canned beans are ideal; they’re precooked and ready to use, which significantly reduces prep time. On the other hand, if you prefer dried beans for a more authentic taste and slightly different texture, expect a longer cooking time. In this case, it’s best to soak them in water for several hours before cooking to ensure a soft and pleasant texture.

Choosing the perfect beans

There are many types of beans, both canned and dried, that you can use for this recipe, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Choosing a specific type of bean isn’t essential, as this dish easily adapts to different varieties, allowing for creativity or simply using what you have on hand. We opted for cannellini beans, which have a mild flavor and creamy texture, along with borlotti beans, which add a richer taste and a firm texture that bring depth and heartiness to the dish. Experimenting with different kinds of beans can also give the recipe a unique and personal touch, making it a bit different every time.

Our Version: Bacon and Pork Sausages

In our version of baked beans, we chose to add bacon and sausage to make this dish even more flavorful and inviting. As it cooks, the bacon becomes crispy, adding a delightful texture and a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the beans. Meanwhile, the sausage stays juicy and tender, enriching the dish with a bold, satisfying taste. Thanks to these two ingredients, our baked beans gain that extra “kick” that makes them perfect for a warm, comforting meal.

oven or cast iron

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to cook in total. If you’d like to use the oven, it’s best to start by sautéing the onion on the stovetop for a few minutes to bring out its flavor, then transfer the dish to the oven to finish cooking for the remaining 10 minutes. This method combines the best of both worlds, giving you a deliciously rich flavor from the stovetop and a beautifully even finish in the oven.

BBQ or Ketchup: Which to Add to Your Baked Beans?

If you want to add a little extra flavor and create the perfect combination, consider adding tomato paste, ketchup, or BBQ sauce while cooking. Each of these ingredients brings a unique note to the dish:

– Tomato Paste: Provides an intense, slightly tangy taste that balances the sweetness of the beans and adds depth to the dish.

– Ketchup: Adds a gentle sweetness and a familiar taste, perfect for those who enjoy softer, comforting flavors.

– BBQ Sauce: Great for a smoky, slightly spicy touch. This sauce turns baked beans into a dish with a bolder, richer flavor, ideal for those looking for something unique and full of character.

Choose the condiment that inspires you most, or experiment with different combinations to create your perfect version!

Spicy or Not?

If you love bold flavors, adding a bit of spice can really enhance this recipe, giving the baked beans a lively, intriguing character. The level of spice, of course, can be adjusted to suit your tastes and preferences. Here are a few options for adding a spicy note to the dish:

– Dried Chili Flakes: Perfect for a moderate, even heat; sprinkle some during cooking or as a final garnish.

– Fresh Chilies: Offer a more intense and fresh spiciness; sliced thinly, they also add a touch of color and freshness to the dish.

– Sriracha Sauce: Ideal for those who enjoy a strong heat with hints of garlic and sweetness; a spoonful of this sauce transforms your baked beans into a spicy, irresistible version.

Choose the ingredient that best suits your tastes, or combine several to achieve the perfect level of spiciness!

How to store baked beans

To store leftover baked beans, transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Before reheating, let them thaw in the fridge and warm them over low heat to preserve their flavor and texture.