eae36972 9523 488a 9297 2290a875e9d3

Slow Cooker Boston Baked Beans

by

Slow Cooker Boston Baked Beans

Description

Slow Cooker Boston Baked Beans are a rich, smoky, and sweet classic side dish made with tender beans slow-cooked in a flavorful molasses sauce. This old-fashioned recipe is perfect for cookouts, holidays, and family gatherings, delivering deep comfort-food flavor with minimal effort thanks to the slow cooker.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups dried navy beans (soaked overnight)
  • 6 cups water (for cooking beans)
  • ½ cup molasses
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped (optional but recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Rinse soaked beans and place them in the slow cooker with 6 cups of fresh water.
  2. Cook on HIGH for 4–5 hours or until beans are just tender (or LOW for 7–8 hours).
  3. Drain most of the cooking water, leaving about 1 cup in the slow cooker.
  4. Add molasses, brown sugar, onion, bacon, mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir well.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 more hours until thick, rich, and flavorful.
  6. Stir occasionally if possible and adjust seasoning before serving.

Notes

  • Soaking beans overnight helps them cook evenly and reduces cooking time.
  • Bacon adds classic smoky flavor but can be omitted for a vegetarian version.
  • Beans will thicken more as they cool.

Tips

  • Add a splash of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
  • Use smoked salt for deeper flavor.
  • Let beans rest 15–20 minutes before serving for best texture.

Servings

8 servings

Nutritional Info (Approx. Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Fiber: 9g

Benefits

  • High in fiber and plant protein
  • Budget-friendly large batch recipe
  • Perfect for cookouts and gatherings
  • Slow cooker convenience
  • Deep smoky-sweet classic flavor

Q&A

Can I use canned beans instead?

Yes, reduce cooking time and skip the initial bean-cooking step.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, omit bacon and use smoked paprika for flavor.

How long do leftovers last?

Store in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.

Can I freeze baked beans?

Yes, freeze for up to 2 months.

What do baked beans pair well with?

BBQ chicken, burgers, hot dogs, cornbread, and grilled meats.

Leave a Comment