Go Back

Memorial Day Baked Beans with Molasses

A sweet and savory baked beans recipe perfect for Memorial Day gatherings, featuring rich molasses for depth of flavor.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Beans Base
  • 2 cups dried navy beans soaked overnight and drained
  • 4 cups water
Flavorings
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 cup molasses
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 cup bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Method
 

Prepare the Beans
  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. In a large pot, combine the soaked navy beans and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
  3. Drain the beans and set aside.
Mix Ingredients
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, molasses, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
  2. Stir in the cooked beans and optional bacon and Worcestershire sauce if using.
Bake the Beans
  1. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 hours, removing the foil for the last 30 minutes to allow the top to caramelize.
Serve
  1. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your sweet and savory baked beans!

Notes

These baked beans can be made a day ahead and reheated before serving for enhanced flavor.