Hot Honey Baked Beans Recipe

Previous Next

Cook Time: 70 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 (15-ounce) cans navy beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper sauce (such as Franks RedHot)
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon and onion over medium heat until the onion is tender and the bacon is crispy, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Transfer the bacon and onion mixture to a large mixing bowl.
5. Add the navy beans, honey, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper sauce, crushed red pepper, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and cover with foil.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
8. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes or until the mixture is hot, bubbly, and the sauce has thickened.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	341
Total Fat	3g (4%)
Saturated Fat	1g (4%)
Cholesterol	6mg (2%)
Sodium	323mg (14%)
Total Carbohydrate	66g (24%)
Dietary Fiber	17g (61%)
Total Sugars	22g
Protein	16g (31%)
Vitamin C	5mg (5%)
Calcium	123mg (9%)
Iron	4mg (23%)
Potassium	755mg (16%)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe.

History of Hot Honey Baked Beans

Hot Honey Baked Beans are a modern twist on the classic baked beans that have been a staple of American cuisine for centuries. Traditional baked beans originated in Native American cooking, where beans were slow-cooked with maple syrup or honey for natural sweetness. European settlers later adapted the recipe by adding ingredients like molasses, bacon, and various spices, creating the rich, savory-sweet dishes we associate with American comfort food today. The addition of hot honeya combination of honey and chili peppersis a 21st-century innovation that reflects the growing trend of combining sweet and spicy flavors in culinary traditions.

Regional Variations

While baked beans are popular across the United States, regional differences shape their flavors and ingredients. In the South, recipes often include smoky bacon, barbecue sauce, and a hint of cayenne pepper, emphasizing bold and savory tastes. Northern versions, such as Boston baked beans, lean heavily on molasses and brown sugar, creating a sweeter profile. Hot Honey Baked Beans often blend these regional influences, pairing the sweetness of honey with the spiciness of cayenne and hot sauce, offering a balanced flavor that can appeal nationwide while still reflecting Southern BBQ traditions.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Hot Honey Baked Beans distinguish themselves from other baked bean recipes primarily through the use of hot honey and a layered spice profile. Unlike classic baked beans that rely on brown sugar or molasses for sweetness, hot honey provides a natural, floral sweetness coupled with heat, adding depth without overpowering the dish. The inclusion of ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, crushed red pepper, and cayenne pepper sauce creates a complex balance of umami, sweetness, and spice that sets it apart from simpler bean dishes or chili-based recipes.

Where Its Usually Served

This dish is commonly served as a side at barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings, complementing grilled meats such as ribs, chicken, or sausages. Hot Honey Baked Beans also pair well with cornbread, roasted vegetables, or even on top of a baked potato for a hearty meal. Its versatility makes it a popular choice in both casual backyard settings and more formal Southern-style dinners.

Interesting Facts

• Hot honeya combination of chili peppers infused in honeyhas gained popularity as a condiment for pizzas, fried chicken, and even cocktails, making this recipe a trendy culinary crossover.
• Baked beans were once considered a convenient and nutritious food for long sea voyages, as dried beans preserved well and provided essential protein.
• The dish can be adapted to suit different heat levels by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper or using milder chili sauces, allowing for a personalized flavor experience.
• Some chefs recommend making Hot Honey Baked Beans a day in advance, as resting overnight allows the flavors to meld, enhancing both sweetness and spice.
• Despite its modern twist, the dish still reflects centuries-old bean-cooking traditions that celebrate slow cooking and layering flavors for depth.

FAQ about Hot Honey Baked Beans Recipe

Comments