If you’ve ever been mesmerized by the comforting, slightly sweet, and smoky allure of baked beans, you are in for a treat with this Homemade Heinz Baked Beans Recipe. It captures that iconic flavor we all crave, with a homemade touch that brings a freshness and depth store-bought cans can’t match. Perfectly tender white beans soak up a rich, tangy sauce, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, lunch, or a cozy dinner side, this recipe is pure, saucy magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to those luscious, authentic baked beans starts with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work together beautifully. Each ingredient adds a layer of flavor or texture that makes this dish shine — from the creamy soft beans to the rich tomato sauce and the subtle zing of vinegar and spices.
- 2 cups dried Navy beans: These beans soak up flavors brilliantly and become wonderfully tender when cooked properly.
- 3 x 400g cans white beans (haricot/navy or cannellini): Adds convenience and extra heartiness, perfect for that classic baked bean texture.
- 2 cups low sodium chicken stock or homemade vegetable stock: Provides a savory base that deepens the flavor complexity of the sauce.
- 1 cup water: Ensures the sauce has the ideal consistency without overpowering the flavors.
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami richness and a subtle tang that elevate the sauce.
- 6 tbsp ketchup or Aussie/British tomato sauce: The sweet, slightly acidic heart of this baked bean sauce.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Enhances the tomato flavor with concentrated sweetness and body.
- 3 tbsp brown sugar: Adds that familiar caramel note that beautifully contrasts with the savory elements.
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Cuts through the sweetness, lending brightness for balance.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses gentle, aromatic warmth throughout the dish.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Complements garlic with a savory depth.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Offers subtle spiciness without overpowering the sweetness.
- 1 tsp salt: Brings all the flavors into harmony.
- 8 tsp cornflour or cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce to that velvety consistency.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps dissolve the cornflour for a smooth sauce texture.
How to Make Homemade Heinz Baked Beans Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Start by soaking your dried Navy beans overnight or for at least 8 hours if you’re using them. This softens the beans, allowing them to cook evenly and absorb all the beautiful flavors later on. After soaking, rinse them thoroughly and boil in fresh water until just tender but still holding their shape. Drain and set aside. If you’re short on time, canned beans are a perfect shortcut without compromising flavor.
Step 2: Make the Signature Sauce
In a large saucepan, combine chicken stock, water, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial because it’s where the magic begins — the sauce thickens, sweetens, and deepens in flavor, creating the classic sweet and tangy profile you adore.
Step 3: Thickening the Sauce and Combining
Mix the cornflour with 1/4 cup water to create a smooth slurry. Slowly add this to your simmering sauce while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Keep cooking for a few minutes until you see the sauce become glossy and thick enough to cling beautifully to the beans. Next, gently fold in your pre-cooked or canned beans and heat through, letting them soak up every bit of that signature sauce flavor.
How to Serve Homemade Heinz Baked Beans Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a fresh green pop that brightens the rich sauce. For those who like a little extra zing, a dash of smoked paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce can elevate the experience, turning an everyday dish into something extraordinary.
Side Dishes
These beans are a star alongside grilled sausages, buttered toast, or even a fluffy omelette for breakfast. Consider serving them with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner. They also pair beautifully with crispy bacon or eggs if you’re aiming for a classic baked bean breakfast vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Try spooning these beans over a baked potato for a hearty lunch, or layer them in a burrito bowl with rice, avocado, and salsa for an exciting twist. You can also use them as a filling for stuffed peppers or as a topping for nachos, adding that beloved baked bean flavor in unexpected and fun ways.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your homemade baked beans to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to four days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners on busy days.
Freezing
This Homemade Heinz Baked Beans Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the beans into freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags and freeze for up to three months. When properly stored, the flavor and texture hold up amazingly well, allowing you to enjoy this delight even on your busiest days.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the beans on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish. Add a splash of water or stock if the sauce has thickened too much during storage. Warm slowly to maintain that perfect consistency and avoid drying out the beans.
FAQs
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! Using canned beans is a convenient shortcut. Just rinse and drain them before adding to your sauce to reduce excess salt and maintain the best flavor.
Is there a vegetarian option for this Homemade Heinz Baked Beans Recipe?
Yes, simply swap chicken stock for homemade vegetable stock or water. The result will still be delicious and full of the classic baked bean taste.
How long does it take to make this recipe from start to finish?
Active prep and cooking time is about 35 minutes, but if you use dried beans, remember to soak them overnight. Using canned beans cuts the time down significantly.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely! Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper when simmering the sauce to give it an extra kick that suits your taste preferences.
What is the best way to thicken the sauce without cornstarch?
If you prefer not to use cornstarch, you can reduce the sauce longer on low heat or mash a few beans into the sauce to naturally thicken it while adding extra creaminess.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making your own version of a beloved classic like baked beans, especially with this Homemade Heinz Baked Beans Recipe. It’s straightforward, full of flavor, and the kind of dish that feels like a cozy reminder of home. Give it a go and enjoy the comforting warmth and familiar deliciousness in every spoonful—you might just find it becoming your new favorite!
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Homemade Heinz Baked Beans Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 10 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Description
This recipe recreates the classic comfort of Heinz baked beans with a homemade twist. Using white beans cooked in a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet tomato sauce, this dish delivers the perfect balance of flavors for a hearty side or a wholesome main. It’s simple, comforting, and can be made from scratch using pantry staples and dried or canned beans.
Ingredients
Beans
- 2 cups (14 oz) dried Navy beans (aka Haricot) or other white beans
- 3 x 400g/14oz cans haricot/navy beans, cannellini or any white beans, drained
Liquid and Base
- 2 cups chicken stock/broth (low sodium) or homemade vegetable stock
- 1 cup water
Sauce and Seasonings
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 6 tbsp ketchup or Aussie/British tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or more onion powder)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (or more garlic powder)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
Thickening Agent
- 8 tsp cornflour/cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans: If using dried Navy beans, soak them overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse thoroughly before cooking. Then simmer in fresh water until tender, which can take about 1 to 1.5 hours, or use canned beans drained and rinsed to save time.
- Make the Sauce: In a large pot or deep skillet, combine chicken or vegetable stock, water, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to blend all the flavors and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook Beans in Sauce: Add the cooked or canned beans to the simmering sauce. Let the beans cook together with the sauce for about 20-30 minutes to allow absorption of flavors, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornflour/cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water to create a slurry. Gradually stir this into the beans and sauce mixture, cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat and let the beans cool slightly before serving. These baked beans can be enjoyed on toast, as a side dish, or part of a full breakfast.
Notes
- Using canned beans reduces preparation time significantly, making this recipe quicker to prepare.
- Low-sodium broth helps control salt levels; adjust seasoning to taste.
- Worcestershire sauce adds umami but ensure it matches dietary preferences (some are not vegetarian).
- Brown sugar balances acidity and adds depth to the sauce; substitute with maple syrup or honey if desired.
- For thicker beans, gradually add more cornstarch slurry but avoid lumps by mixing well.
- This recipe can be adapted for vegetarian by using vegetable stock and omitting Worcestershire sauce or using a vegetarian version.
