Baked Beans Recipe for 20 People: Easy and Delicious

Baked beans are a classic comfort food and perfect for feeding a large group. This recipe offers a hearty, flavorful dish that can be prepared ahead of time and baked to perfection, making it ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing baked beans dish in no time.

Ingredients

• 4 cans (15 oz each) of navy beans or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 pound (450 g) smoked bacon, chopped
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) ketchup
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) molasses or brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup (240 ml) water or chicken broth
• Optional: 1-2 teaspoons chili powder or hot sauce for spice

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a large baking dish or deep roasting pan suitable for feeding 20 people.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
3. Add the chopped onions to the skillet with bacon fat and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Transfer the cooked bacon, onions, and garlic to the baking dish. Add the drained beans to the dish and stir gently to combine.
5. In a bowl, whisk together ketchup, molasses or brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and water or broth. If you like some heat, add chili powder or hot sauce.
6. Pour the sauce mixture over the beans and bacon in the baking dish. Stir well to ensure everything is coated evenly.
7. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
8. Check the beans; if the sauce is too thin, bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
9. Once done, remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Tips

• For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or use smoked bacon. You can also include a dash of liquid smoke if desired.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• To make the dish spicier, incorporate hot sauce, chopped jalapeños, or chili flakes into the sauce before baking.
• Leftover baked beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these baked beans alongside grilled sausages, burgers, or roasted meats for a hearty meal. They also make a great side dish for picnics, barbecues, or potluck gatherings. Consider garnishing with chopped fresh parsley or scallions for added freshness.

Variations

• Vegetarian Baked Beans: Replace bacon with smoked paprika, liquid smoke, or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for smoky flavor without meat.
• Spicy Baked Beans: Add chopped chili peppers, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Sweet and Tangy: Increase the molasses or brown sugar for a sweeter profile, balancing with additional vinegar for tang.
• Vegan Version: Use coconut oil instead of bacon fat, and ensure the beans and broth are vegetarian or vegan-friendly.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover baked beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, transfer to a saucepan and warm over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. If the beans seem too thick after reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare baked beans in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the baked beans a day ahead and refrigerate. Just bake them as instructed when ready to serve. The flavors will meld better if prepared in advance.

Can I freeze baked beans?

Absolutely. Store leftovers in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a saucepan or microwave until hot.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply ensure that all ingredients, especially the ketchup and mustard, are gluten-free. Most brands are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to be certain.

What can I do if my baked beans are too salty?

If the dish turns out too salty, add a little more water or broth and bake uncovered for a few extra minutes to dilute the saltiness. Serving with a side of plain rice or bread can also help balance the flavor.

How do I prevent the beans from drying out during baking?

Make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil during the initial baking phase to retain moisture. Adding a bit more water or broth if needed can also help keep the beans tender and saucy.

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