Are you craving a hearty, flavorful dish that evokes feelings of warmth and home-cooked goodness? Look no further than this fantastic recipe for Bush's Baked Beans! This isn't your average can of beans; we're transforming humble baked beans into a delicious, homemade masterpiece. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and delivers on flavor. Get ready to experience the best baked beans you've ever tasted!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound smoked pork sausage, casings removed and crumbled (or bacon, diced)
- 2 (28-ounce) cans Bush's Best Baked Beans in brown sugar and molasses (or your favorite brand)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, crispy fried onions
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and green bell pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Add the crumbled smoked sausage (or bacon) to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. This step adds depth of flavor to your baked beans. If using bacon, remove it before adding the beans and crumble it on top before serving.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Pour in the two cans of Bush's baked beans, chicken broth, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the stovetop. Then, cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for at least 1 hour, or up to 1.5 hours, stirring halfway through. The longer it bakes, the more the flavors will meld and deepen. The beans should be tender and the sauce thickened.
Tips for the Best Baked Beans:
- Don't be afraid to experiment with spices! A dash of cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder can add a nice kick.
- For extra smoky flavor, use smoked bacon instead of sausage.
- To make it a complete meal, serve your baked beans alongside cornbread or crusty bread.
- Leftovers are even better the next day! The flavors have a chance to really develop.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Baked Beans: Omit the sausage or bacon and add a cup of cooked mushrooms or crumbled vegetarian sausage for a delicious meatless option.
- Spicy Baked Beans: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Sweet & Savory Baked Beans: Increase the brown sugar to 1/3 cup for a sweeter version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Fiber: 8-10g
This homemade Bush's Baked Beans recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that perfectly blends sweet and savory flavors. Enjoy this easy recipe for a delicious and comforting meal, perfect for any occasion!