The Best Vegan Baked Beans Recipe

These Vegan Baked Beans are smoky, sweet, and savory, with a rich and comforting flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. Perfect as a side dish for BBQs, vegan burgers, or a hearty breakfast, this recipe is made with simple plant-based ingredients and packs a punch of flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a quick weeknight dinner, these baked beans are sure to be a hit!

Vegan Baked Beans Recipe

Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Ingredients:

2 cans (15 oz each) of white beans (such as navy beans or great northern beans), drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup maple syrup or agave syrup (for sweetness)
1/4 cup tomato paste
1/2 cup ketchup (or BBQ sauce for a smokier flavor)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional, for a little warmth)
1 cup vegetable broth (or water)
1 tablespoon liquid smoke (optional, for a smoky flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Drain and rinse the canned beans, and set them aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.

3. Make the Sauce:

Stir in the maple syrup, tomato paste, ketchup (or BBQ sauce), apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, salt, and ground ginger (if using).
Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

4. Add the Beans:

Add the drained beans to the pot and stir to coat them evenly with the sauce.
Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and liquid smoke (if using) and stir again. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Bake the Beans:

Cover the pot with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven.
Bake for 1 hour, stirring halfway through, until the sauce has thickened and the beans are tender.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Taste and Adjust:

Once done, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or maple syrup if you’d like it sweeter.
For extra smokiness, add more liquid smoke or smoked paprika.

7. Serve:

Serve your delicious Vegan Baked Beans warm, either as a side dish or a main meal, alongside your favorite vegan BBQ dishes, roasted vegetables, or over a baked potato for a comforting meal.

Tips for the Best Vegan Baked Beans:

Beans: You can use any type of beans you like. White beans are the traditional choice, but kidney beans or black beans work well, too.
Sweetness: Adjust the level of sweetness to your preference. Maple syrup gives a lovely natural sweetness, but you can also use brown sugar or agave.
Flavor Boost: For added depth of flavor, try stirring in some Worcestershire sauce (make sure it’s vegan) or a touch of balsamic vinegar.
Make it Smoky: If you enjoy a smoky flavor, liquid smoke is the secret ingredient! Alternatively, a bit more smoked paprika can give the beans a smoky kick.
Make Ahead: These beans taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.

Why These Vegan Baked Beans Are the Best:

Flavor-packed: With a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors, these beans are both comforting and delicious.
Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is easy to whip up and requires little hands-on time.
Versatile: Serve it as a side dish, a topping for a baked potato, or even mix it into grain bowls. The options are endless!
Healthy & Nutritious: Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and important vitamins and minerals, making this dish both satisfying and nourishing.

These Vegan Baked Beans are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering or as part of a cozy home-cooked meal. Whether you’re serving them at a summer BBQ or enjoying them as a comforting winter dish, this recipe will always be a favorite!