This Cozy Apple Pie Baked Beans recipe is a fun twist on two classic dishes! It features sweet apples, hearty beans, and warm spices, all baked together for a comforting treat.
Your kitchen will smell amazing as it bakes! I love to serve these beans at gatherings, and they always get smiles and seconds. Perfect for when you want a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Navy Beans: These beans are small and creamy, which works well for this dish. If you need a substitute, you can use pinto beans or black beans, but the texture will be slightly different. I often use canned beans for convenience!
Apples: I recommend using sweet apples like Gala or Fuji for a nice contrast with the beans. However, if you prefer tart apples, Granny Smith will work too but may change the sweetness balance. Personally, I love a mix of both for depth of flavor!
Ground Meat: While I typically use ground pork for its richness, ground beef or even turkey are great substitutes. If you want a vegetarian option, try using crumbled tempeh or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
Molasses: This adds a deep sweetness that is hard to replicate. If you’re out or don’t like it, you can swap it with honey or maple syrup, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Spices: The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates that cozy vibe. If you’re missing any of them, a pumpkin pie spice mix can be a good stand-in since it has a similar flavor profile!
What’s the Best Way to Combine Ingredients for Maximum Flavor?
Getting the right flavors in each bite relies on how you mix and layer your ingredients. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Cook the meat and onions first; this builds a nice base flavor. Drain excess grease to avoid a watery mix.
- Mix in your beans and chopped apples while the mixture is still warm. This helps the beans absorb the spices better.
- Add your sweet and tangy components, like brown sugar and vinegar. Stir well to ensure everything combines evenly.
- Be cautious with water; too much can make it soupy. Aim for a saucy, not watery, texture.
- Covering the dish while baking helps keep moisture in, but uncover it later to create a nice caramelized top.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a wonderful mix of flavors to enjoy with each bite!
Cozy Apple Pie Baked Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 4 cups cooked or canned navy beans (drained and rinsed if canned)
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into chunks
- 1/2 pound ground pork or ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
For the Flavoring:
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Texture:
- 1/3 cup water (or as needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then bakes for around 1.5 to 2 hours. Afterward, let it cool for a bit before serving. Overall, you’re looking at about 2 hours and 15 minutes to enjoy this cozy dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Make sure your oven is preheated to 325°F (163°C) so it’s ready for the beans when you’re done preparing them.
2. Cook the Meat and Onion:
In a large skillet, cook the ground pork or beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until the meat is browned and the onion is soft, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep it from making your dish oily.
3. Mix Everything Together:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked beans, the meat and onion mixture, chopped apples, brown sugar, ketchup, molasses, apple cider vinegar, mustard, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything well until the mixture is nicely combined.
4. Adjust the Consistency:
If the mixture looks dry, add a little water to keep it saucy. You want it moist but not swimming in liquid!
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Baking Time:
Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil, then bake in your preheated oven for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Don’t forget to stir every 30 minutes! If you like a thicker, caramelized top, uncover the dish for the last 30 minutes of baking.
7. Let It Cool:
Once baked, allow the dish to cool slightly. This resting time helps the flavors blend together beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your Cozy Apple Pie Baked Beans warm, whether as a delightful side dish or a comforting main dish. The sweet, spiced apples mixed with hearty beans will warm your heart!
With its unique flavors, this dish is sure to be a hit at gatherings or family meals. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Cozy Apple Pie Baked Beans FAQ
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While navy beans are traditional for this recipe, you can substitute them with pinto beans, black beans, or even chickpeas if you prefer. Each type will impart a slightly different texture and flavor!
Are There Any Vegetarian Options for This Recipe?
Yes! For a vegetarian option, you can omit the meat entirely or replace it with crumbled tempeh or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Just sauté with the onions to build that foundational flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat them on the stove or in the microwave. If the beans seem a little dry, stir in a splash of water before reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Then just bake it right before your meal. This can even enhance the flavors as they have more time to meld!
