Best 2 Not Too Sweet Dutch Oven Baked Beans Recipes

**Savory and Sweet Baked Beans Goodness:**

Embark on a culinary journey with our delectable Dutch oven baked beans recipes, a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Indulge in the classic version, a harmonious blend of savory bacon, tender beans, and a touch of sweetness. For a vegetarian twist, savor the meatless variation, where hearty mushrooms and aromatic vegetables take center stage. Craving a kick of heat? The spicy baked beans recipe infuses a fiery blend of chili peppers and spices, sure to ignite your senses. And for those who prefer a smoky twist, the campfire baked beans, prepared over an open flame, offer a unique depth of flavor. Each recipe offers a distinct culinary experience, ensuring there's something for every palate.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

NOT TOO SWEET DUTCH OVEN BAKED BEANS

NOT TOO SWEET DUTCH OVEN BAKED BEANS image

I have never made baked beans before. My mother made them, and my sister makes them, but I never have. I guess I didn't want to compete. Until now. These are guaranteed to be awesome. Recipe & photo: Familycircle.com 08-06-15

Provided by Ellen Bales

Categories Side Casseroles

Time 9h35m

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

1/4 lb thick-cut bacon, roughly chopped
1 large yellow onion, diced
1/2 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
8 clove garlic, finely chopped (about 2 tbsp.)
1 lb dried pinto beans, soaked overnight
3 c ketchup
1/2 c packed light or dark brown sugar, plus more to taste
1/4 c worcestershire sauce
1/2 c dijon mustard
1 Tbsp dry mustard
1 Tbsp chili powder
1 Tbsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

1. In a large Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium-high heat until crisp, about 7 minutes, stirring frequently. Add onion and 1/4 tsp. of the salt; cook, stirring occasionally, 5 to 7 minutes, until onion is soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute, stirring so it doesn't brown.
2. Add beans, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire, Dijon mustard, dry mustard, chili powder, cumin, pepper, remaining 1/4 tsp. salt and enough water to just cover beans. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
3. Carefully transfer to a 6-qt. slow cooker and cook on LOW for 8 to 9 hours, until beans are tender. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving.

BAKED BEANS WITH BACON

Baked Beans with Bacon image

A couple slices of bacon add just the right amount of richness to this sweet-and-savory side dish.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories Food & Cooking Ingredients Meat & Poultry Pork Recipes

Time 1h30m

Yield Serves 6 to 8; Makes 4 cups

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

3 slices bacon, halved crosswise (4 ounces)
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons light-brown sugar
3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon minced garlic (2 to 3 cloves)
3 cans (each 15 ounces) navy beans or small white beans, rinsed and drained
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
3 sprigs thyme

Steps:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
In a 2-quart Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium, flipping occasionally, until some of the fat is rendered and bacon is browned in places, about 7 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
In a large bowl, combine maple syrup, mustard, ketchup, brown sugar, chicken broth, Worcestershire, and garlic. Stir in beans. Season with 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
Transfer beans to Dutch oven and top with bacon and thyme. Bake, covered, for 30 minutes. Uncover and continue to bake until liquid has thickened and bacon is brown, about 40 minutes more. Let sit 5 minutes; mix well before serving.

Tips:

Soak the beans overnight: This will help to reduce the cooking time and make the beans more tender.
Use a variety of beans: This will give your baked beans a more complex flavor and texture. Some good options include pinto beans, kidney beans, and black beans.
Don't overcook the beans: Overcooked beans will be mushy and bland. Cook them until they are just tender, but still hold their shape.
Use a good quality bacon: The bacon is one of the key ingredients in baked beans, so it's important to use a good quality bacon that has a good flavor.
Add some sweetness: Baked beans are traditionally sweet, so you'll need to add some sugar or another sweetener to the recipe. Brown sugar, maple syrup, and honey are all good options.
Add some smokiness: Smoked paprika or liquid smoke can add a nice smoky flavor to baked beans.
Serve the beans hot: Baked beans are best served hot, so make sure to heat them through before serving.

Conclusion:

Dutch oven baked beans are a classic comfort food that is perfect for a potluck or a family gathering. They are easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste. With a few simple tips, you can make the best Dutch oven baked beans that everyone will love.