Baked Bean Bonanza: 10 Delicious Recipes Beyond Breakfast!
Baked beans. They’re a breakfast staple, a barbecue sidekick, and a campfire classic. But have you ever thought about expanding their culinary horizons? These humble legumes are surprisingly versatile, lending themselves to a range of dishes from hearty stews to spicy dips. This blog post is your ultimate guide to baked bean innovation, featuring ten unique and delicious recipes that will transform your perception of this pantry staple. Get ready to unleash the baked bean bonanza!
## Understanding Your Baked Beans: A Quick Primer
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about baked beans themselves. Most commercially available baked beans are made from navy beans (also known as haricot beans) cooked in a tomato-based sauce that’s typically sweetened with brown sugar, molasses, or maple syrup. Many brands also include bacon or salt pork for added flavor.
For these recipes, you can use canned baked beans or homemade. Homemade baked beans offer greater control over ingredients and flavors, but canned beans are a convenient and budget-friendly option. If using canned, consider draining and rinsing them to reduce the sodium content, especially if you’re sensitive to salt. You can also adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Here’s a breakdown of considerations:
* **Canned vs. Homemade:** Canned is faster, homemade offers control.
* **Sodium Content:** Drain and rinse canned beans to lower sodium.
* **Sweetness:** Adjust sugar/molasses to taste, especially with canned varieties.
* **Flavor Profile:** Consider adding smoked paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder to enhance the flavor, especially if using plain beans.
* **Bean Variety:** While navy beans are traditional, you can experiment with other beans like cannellini beans or Great Northern beans for a different texture and flavor.
## Recipe 1: Spicy Baked Bean Chili
Tired of the same old chili? Baked beans add a unique sweetness and creaminess to this classic dish. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a casual gathering.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
* 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
* 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
* 1 tablespoon chili powder
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 2 (15 ounce) cans baked beans, undrained
* 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced onions
**Instructions:**
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
4. Add ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
5. Drain off any excess grease.
6. Add bell pepper and jalapeño (if using) and cook for 3-5 minutes, until slightly softened.
7. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
8. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, baked beans, and kidney beans.
9. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cover. Cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Serve hot with your favorite chili toppings.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and add 1 cup of chopped vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn.
* Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for extra flavor and heat.
* If the chili is too thick, add a little water or beef broth to thin it out.
* For a smoky flavor, use smoked sausage instead of ground beef.
* Spice it up with a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
## Recipe 2: Baked Bean & Cornbread Casserole
This comforting casserole is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect way to use leftover cornbread. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s easy to make.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (15 ounce) can baked beans, undrained
* 1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
* 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon mustard
* 4 cups crumbled cornbread (store-bought or homemade)
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine baked beans, corn, onion, bell pepper, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and mustard.
3. Stir well to combine.
4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Pour the bean mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Top with crumbled cornbread.
7. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the cornbread is golden brown.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add cooked crumbled bacon or sausage to the bean mixture for extra flavor.
* Use a different type of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Colby Jack.
* For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the bean mixture.
* If you don’t have cornbread, you can use biscuit mix or stuffing mix instead.
* Add a layer of cream cheese under the cornbread for added richness.
## Recipe 3: Baked Bean Burgers
These vegetarian burgers are packed with flavor and protein. They’re a great alternative to traditional meat burgers and are perfect for grilling or pan-frying.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (15 ounce) can baked beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 cup cooked brown rice (or quinoa)
* 1/2 cup rolled oats
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon chili powder
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Burger buns
* Toppings of your choice: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, avocado, ketchup, mustard, etc.
**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, mash the baked beans with a fork or potato masher.
2. Add the cooked rice (or quinoa), rolled oats, onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Mix well to combine. The mixture should be slightly sticky but firm enough to form into patties.
5. If the mixture is too wet, add more rolled oats. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon or two of water.
6. Form the mixture into 4-6 patties.
7. Heat a lightly oiled skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
8. Cook the patties for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
9. Serve on burger buns with your favorite toppings.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
* Use black beans or kidney beans instead of baked beans.
* Add a tablespoon of barbecue sauce to the mixture for a smoky flavor.
* Top the burgers with a fried egg for a breakfast-inspired meal.
* Serve the burgers on lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
## Recipe 4: Baked Bean Quesadillas
These quick and easy quesadillas are a perfect weeknight meal. They’re customizable and can be filled with your favorite toppings.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 large flour tortillas
* 1 (15 ounce) can baked beans, drained
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack)
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
* Salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for serving (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface.
2. Spread a thin layer of baked beans on one half of each tortilla.
3. Sprinkle with cheese, onion, and bell pepper.
4. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling.
5. Heat a lightly oiled skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Cook the quesadillas for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add cooked chicken or ground beef to the quesadillas for a heartier meal.
* Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella.
* Add a layer of refried beans for extra flavor and texture.
* Brush the tortillas with melted butter before cooking for a crispier crust.
* Serve with a side of Mexican rice and beans.
## Recipe 5: Sweet and Savory Baked Bean Dip
This unique dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is surprisingly delicious.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (15 ounce) can baked beans, drained and rinsed
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables for serving
**Instructions:**
1. In a food processor, combine baked beans, cream cheese, red onion, cilantro, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
2. Process until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl.
5. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
* Use a different type of bean, such as black beans or pinto beans.
* Add a tablespoon of barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
* Top with crumbled bacon or shredded cheese before serving.
* Serve warm or cold.
## Recipe 6: Baked Bean Shepherd’s Pie
A vegetarian twist on a classic comfort food. The baked beans add a unique sweetness to the savory filling.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (15 ounce) can baked beans, undrained
* 1 (15 ounce) can vegetable broth
* 1 tablespoon tomato paste
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 4 cups mashed potatoes (store-bought or homemade)
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
5. Stir in baked beans, vegetable broth, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Pour the bean mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
9. Top with mashed potatoes.
10. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add mushrooms or other vegetables to the filling.
* Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for the topping.
* Add a layer of cheese sauce under the mashed potatoes for extra richness.
* Top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture.
* Use lentils or other beans instead of baked beans.
## Recipe 7: Baked Bean and Sausage Skillet
A quick and easy one-pan meal perfect for a busy weeknight. The sausage adds a smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the baked beans.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
* 1 onion, chopped
* 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
* 1 (15 ounce) can baked beans, undrained
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in baked beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
8. Serve with rice, cornbread, or tortillas.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of sausage, such as Italian sausage or chorizo.
* Add corn, black beans, or other vegetables to the skillet.
* Top with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
* Serve over mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
* Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
## Recipe 8: Baked Bean Stuffed Peppers
These colorful and flavorful stuffed peppers are a healthy and satisfying meal. The baked beans add a unique sweetness and creaminess to the filling.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 bell peppers (any color), halved lengthwise and seeded
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 (15 ounce) can baked beans, drained
* 1/2 cup cooked rice (or quinoa)
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack)
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
5. Stir in baked beans, rice (or quinoa), cilantro, cheese, chili powder, and cumin.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Spoon the filling into the bell pepper halves.
8. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
9. Add 1/2 cup of water to the bottom of the dish.
10. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add ground beef, sausage, or chicken to the filling.
* Use different types of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans.
* Top with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole before serving.
* Add corn, black olives, or diced tomatoes to the filling.
* Roast the peppers before stuffing for a deeper flavor.
## Recipe 9: Baked Bean Pizza
Yes, you read that right! This unexpected pizza topping is surprisingly delicious. The baked beans add a sweet and savory flavor that complements the other toppings.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pre-made pizza crust (or homemade dough)
* 1/2 cup pizza sauce
* 1 (15 ounce) can baked beans, drained
* 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
* Optional toppings: cooked bacon, sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, olives
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Place the pizza crust on a baking sheet.
3. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the crust.
4. Sprinkle with baked beans, mozzarella cheese, red onion, and green bell pepper.
5. Add any optional toppings you like.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone.
* Add a drizzle of barbecue sauce or hot sauce for extra flavor.
* Use a different type of bean, such as black beans or pinto beans.
* Experiment with different toppings, such as pineapple, jalapenos, or artichoke hearts.
* Use a whole wheat crust for a healthier option.
## Recipe 10: Baked Bean and Egg Breakfast Burrito
Start your day with this hearty and flavorful breakfast burrito. The baked beans add a touch of sweetness and make it extra satisfying.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 large flour tortillas
* 2 eggs
* 1 tablespoon milk or cream
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/4 cup cooked bacon or sausage, crumbled
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
* 1/4 cup baked beans, drained
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Salsa or hot sauce for serving (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set.
4. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
5. Divide the scrambled eggs between the tortillas.
6. Top with cheese, bacon or sausage, onion, bell pepper, and baked beans.
7. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it up tightly.
8. Serve immediately with salsa or hot sauce, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add avocado or guacamole for a creamy texture.
* Use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
* Add black beans or corn to the filling.
* Use different types of meat, such as chorizo or ham.
* Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding extra vegetables.
## Conclusion: Embrace the Baked Bean Revolution!
So there you have it – ten delicious and unexpected ways to use baked beans beyond breakfast! From spicy chili to savory burgers and even pizza, these recipes demonstrate the incredible versatility of this humble ingredient. Don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust these recipes to your own taste preferences. The baked bean bonanza awaits! Now, go forth and create some culinary magic with these often-overlooked beans. Let me know in the comments which recipe you tried and how it turned out! Happy cooking!
