Best 2 Italian Baked Beans Recipes

**Title: Italian Baked Beans: A Hearty and Flavorful Treat**

**Introduction:**

Embark on a culinary journey to Italy with our delectable Italian baked beans recipe. This hearty and flavorful dish is a delightful symphony of textures and tastes that will tantalize your palate. Baked beans, a classic comfort food, are transformed into an extraordinary meal with the addition of aromatic Italian herbs, savory spices, and a rich tomato sauce. Our collection of recipes offers variations to suit every preference, from a traditional Italian version to a vegetarian and a spicy rendition. Indulge in the rustic charm of this Italian-inspired dish, perfect for gatherings, potlucks, and cozy weeknight dinners.

**Recipes Included:**

1. **Classic Italian Baked Beans:**

This recipe captures the essence of traditional Italian baked beans. Tender beans are enveloped in a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, onions, and a harmonious blend of Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. Parmesan cheese adds a nutty umami flavor, while a touch of red pepper flakes brings a subtle warmth.

2. **Vegetarian Italian Baked Beans:**

For a meatless yet equally satisfying option, try our vegetarian Italian baked beans. Hearty beans, colorful bell peppers, and succulent mushrooms come together in a flavorful tomato sauce. The addition of zucchini and carrots adds a delightful crunch and extra nutrients. This recipe is a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of plant-based cooking.

3. **Spicy Italian Baked Beans:**

If you love a little heat in your food, our spicy Italian baked beans are sure to satisfy. Along with the classic Italian flavors, this recipe introduces a blend of chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. The result is a dish that packs a punch without overpowering the other ingredients. Get ready for a taste sensation that will leave your taste buds tingling.

Each recipe provides detailed instructions, cooking tips, and ingredient substitutions to ensure success in your kitchen. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice, our Italian baked beans recipes are designed to guide you effortlessly through the cooking process, resulting in a dish that will impress family and friends alike.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

ITALIAN-STYLE BAKED BEANS

Italian-Style Baked Beans image

Provided by Giada De Laurentiis

Categories side-dish

Time 1h15m

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

6 ounces thinly sliced pancetta, chopped
2 onions, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup dark beer
1 cup tomato sauce
1/3 cup dark brown sugar
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons mild-flavored molasses
6 teaspoons Dijon mustard
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained

Steps:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Cook the pancetta in a heavy large oven-safe pot over medium heat until crisp, about 8 minutes. Add the onions and garlic, and saute until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Mix in the beer, tomato sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, molasses, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir in the beans. Bring to a simmer. Transfer to the oven and bake, uncovered, until the bean mixture bubbles and thickens slightly, stirring occasionally, about 45 minutes.

ITALIAN BAKED BEANS

Italian Baked Beans image

Even people who aren't wild about baked beans enjoy this dish - it puts a new twist on an old summertime favorite. I received the recipe from my brother-in-law and use it often for gatherings. If I have lots of time, I cook the beans on low in a slow cooker - easy and delicious!

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Side Dishes

Time 1h5m

Yield 12-14 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

6 ounces sliced pepperoni
1 medium green pepper, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
1 tablespoon butter
1 can (12 ounces) tomato paste
2 cans (4 ounces each) mushroom stems and pieces, undrained
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
4 cans (16 ounces each) pork and beans
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

In a Dutch oven, cook the pepperoni, green pepper and onion in butter until vegetables are tender. Stir in tomato paste, mushrooms, seasonings and beans; mix well. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Cover and bake at 350° for 50-60 minutes.

Nutrition Facts :

Tips:

Choose the right type of beans. Small white beans, such as Navy beans or Great Northern beans, are the traditional choice for Italian baked beans. You can also use larger beans, such as kidney beans or pinto beans, but they will take longer to cook.
Soak the beans overnight. This will help to reduce the cooking time and make the beans more tender.
Use a flavorful broth. The broth is what gives Italian baked beans their distinctive flavor. You can use chicken broth, beef broth, or vegetable broth. If you're using a canned broth, be sure to choose one that is low in sodium.
Add plenty of vegetables. Vegetables add flavor, texture, and nutrients to Italian baked beans. Some good choices include onions, celery, carrots, and garlic.
Season the beans well. Italian baked beans should be well-seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can also add other herbs and spices, such as oregano, basil, and thyme.
Bake the beans until they are tender. The baking time will vary depending on the type of beans you are using. Small white beans will typically take about 1 hour to cook, while larger beans may take up to 2 hours.

Conclusion:

Italian baked beans are a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal. They are also a great way to use up leftover beans. With a few simple tips, you can make Italian baked beans that are sure to please everyone at your table.