Baked Beans: A Crispy, Juicy Delight for Your Ham Dinner
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a timeless favorite, offering the perfect balance of crispy edges and juicy tenderness in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy family dinner or preparing a grand feast for a special occasion, baked beans bring warmth and flavor that complement any dish. With their savory richness, they’re the ultimate side to serve with ham, making them a must-have for your meal!
If you’ve ever wondered what goes with ham or what to serve with ham, baked beans should be at the top of your list. Their deliciously hearty texture and balanced sweetness make them an ideal side for ham dishes for dinner, Easter sides with ham, and even cheap dinners for a family. Read on for a simple yet scrumptious baked bean recipe that will elevate your next dinner!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried white beans (or 3 cups canned beans, drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 lb smoked ham (or bacon, cut into small pieces)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 cups water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
If you’re using dried beans, rinse them thoroughly and place them in a large pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Let them simmer for about 1-2 hours or until they are tender. Drain and set aside.
Tip: If you’re in a rush, canned beans can be a quick substitute. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well to remove excess salt.
Step 2: Cook the Ham and Aromatics
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced smoked ham (or bacon) and cook until it turns crispy and golden. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the onions become translucent.
Tip: For a more intense flavor, try browning the ham well to develop that rich, smoky taste.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
Once your ham and aromatics are ready, stir in the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, black pepper, salt, ketchup, molasses, and apple cider vinegar. Add the water or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Tip: Taste the sauce before adding the water. If you prefer a sweeter or tangier flavor, adjust the brown sugar or vinegar to your liking.
Step 4: Combine the Beans and Sauce
Add the cooked beans to the saucepan and mix everything thoroughly, ensuring that the beans are coated in the rich sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tip: You can make the beans ahead of time and let them simmer on low for a longer period to deepen the flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the beans have thickened to your desired consistency and absorbed the flavors, they are ready to serve. Dish them out alongside your favorite ham recipe.
Serving Suggestion: These baked beans make the perfect side for ham dishes for dinner, especially during the holidays. They are a great choice for Easter sides with ham or a quick weeknight dinner.
Tips for Perfect Baked Beans
- Slow Cooker Method: You can make baked beans in a slow cooker by combining all ingredients (after cooking the ham and aromatics) and letting them cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the brown sugar and molasses based on your preference. For a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar or add a bit more vinegar for balance.
- Smoky Flavor: If you want a more pronounced smoky flavor, use smoked turkey or sausage instead of ham.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 15g
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Why Baked Beans Are the Perfect Side for Ham
If you’re wondering what to serve with ham for your next family meal, baked beans are a delicious and satisfying option. Not only do they pair wonderfully with ham recipes for dinner, but they also complement the richness of ham with their slightly sweet and savory flavor. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday feast or a casual meal, these baked beans will never disappoint.
They’re also perfect for cheap dinners for a family, as beans are an affordable ingredient that can stretch a meal while still being full of flavor. Serve them with sides to serve with ham such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a well-rounded, hearty meal.
Conclusion:
These baked beans are the ultimate comfort food and a must-try side for your next ham dinner. Whether you’re making sides for ham dinner Christmas or simply looking for an easy and healthy dinner recipe, baked beans will complement any ham dish beautifully. If you try this recipe, be sure to leave a comment below and share it with your friends. We’d love to hear how you enjoyed these baked beans!
Call to Action: Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and let us know how you made it your own! What other sides do you love to serve with ham? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!
