Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans – A Hearty, Homemade Classic

There’s something comforting about a warm bowl of Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans. This dish brings back memories of cozy family dinners, backyard barbecues, and holiday feasts. The rich, smoky flavor combined with the perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness makes it a timeless favorite.

If you love slow-cooked, homemade beans with deep, rich flavors, you’re in for a treat. This recipe stays true to traditional baked beans—simple ingredients, slow cooking, and a whole lot of love. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a main course, or even as part of a hearty breakfast, these beans will leave everyone asking for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Flavorful – A perfect blend of smoky bacon, sweet brown sugar, and tender navy beans.
• Slow-Cooked Goodness – Low and slow cooking enhances the depth of flavor.
• Perfect for Gatherings – A great dish for barbecues, family dinners, and potlucks.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses simple pantry ingredients without compromising taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen!

Ingredients for Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans

The secret to great baked beans is using quality ingredients and slow-cooking them to perfection. Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Beans

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Dried navy beans	1 lb	Base of the dish, soft and creamy when cooked
Water	6 cups (for soaking)	Helps soften the beans for cooking
Additional water	As needed	Ensures beans remain covered while cooking
Salt	1 tsp	Enhances flavor

For the Flavor

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Bacon, chopped	4 oz (about 3 thick-cut slices)	Adds a smoky, savory taste
Dark brown sugar	⅓ cup	Provides sweetness and caramelized richness
Onion, chopped (optional)	1 medium	Adds a mild sweetness and depth
Bay leaf (optional)	1	Enhances the aroma and flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans

1. Prepare the Beans

1. Rinse and Sort – Rinse the dried navy beans under cold water and remove any debris or bad beans.
2. Soak Overnight – Place the beans in a large bowl, cover with 6 cups of water, and let them soak overnight. This helps them cook faster and more evenly.
3. Drain and Rinse – After soaking, drain the beans and rinse them thoroughly.

2. Cook the Beans

1. Transfer to a Pot – Place the soaked beans in a large pot and cover with fresh water (about 2 inches above the beans).
2. Simmer Gently – Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let the beans simmer for about 1 hour, or until tender.
3. Season Lightly – Add the salt during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
4. Drain and Set Aside – Once tender, drain the beans, reserving about 1 cup of the cooking liquid to use later.

3. Prepare the Flavor Base

1. Cook the Bacon – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy.
2. Sauté the Onion – If using, add the chopped onion to the bacon and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Mix the Ingredients – Stir in the brown sugar and bay leaf, allowing the flavors to blend.

4. Bake the Beans

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Combine Everything – In a baking dish or Dutch oven, mix the cooked beans, bacon mixture, and reserved cooking liquid.
3. Bake Slowly – Cover and bake for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally. If the beans look dry, add a bit more water.
4. Uncover for the Last Hour – This helps create a rich, caramelized top layer.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from the oven, discard the bay leaf, and let the beans sit for a few minutes before serving.
• Enjoy as a side dish with grilled meats, as a topping for toast, or on its own!

Tips for the Best Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans

Choosing the Right Beans

• Navy beans are traditional for baked beans because they become creamy yet hold their shape.
• Great Northern beans can be used as a substitute for a slightly firmer texture.

How to Get the Perfect Texture

• Soak Overnight – This softens the beans and reduces cooking time.
• Simmer Before Baking – Ensures the beans are tender before baking.
• Check Moisture Levels – If the beans start drying out, add a splash of hot water or broth.

Customizing Your Baked Beans

• Sweeter Beans? Add more brown sugar or a drizzle of molasses.
• Smokier Flavor? Use smoked bacon or add a dash of smoked paprika.
• Vegetarian Option? Skip the bacon and use a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	250 kcal
Protein	12g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	5g
Fiber	8g
Sugar	10g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and serving sizes.

Serving Suggestions

Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans are incredibly versatile and can be paired with many dishes:

• Grilled Meats – Perfect with BBQ chicken, ribs, or burgers.
• Breakfast Favorite – Serve alongside scrambled eggs and toast.
• Hearty Dinner – Pair with cornbread and roasted vegetables.
• Picnic or Potluck – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! Cook the beans as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

2. How Long Can I Store Leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors get even better the next day!

3. Can I Freeze Baked Beans?

Absolutely! Let them cool completely, then freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

4. Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried?

Yes, but the flavor and texture won’t be as rich. Use three 15-ounce cans of navy beans, drained and rinsed, and reduce baking time to 1.5-2 hours.

5. How Can I Make It More Savory?

Try adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for extra depth.

6. What Can I Use Instead of Bacon?

For a vegetarian version, use liquid smoke or smoked paprika to replicate the smoky flavor.

Final Thoughts – Try This Classic Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans Recipe!

There’s nothing quite like Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans—rich, smoky, and perfectly sweet. Whether you’re making them for a barbecue, a cozy family dinner, or meal prep, this dish is a true comfort food classic.

Now it’s your turn! Gather your ingredients, start soaking those beans, and enjoy the deep, satisfying flavors of homemade baked beans.

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