Looking for a hearty, smoky, and satisfying side dish? These Vegan Bacon Baked Beans are the ultimate comfort food. With rich tomato sauce, smoky flavor from liquid smoke, and savory vegan bacon, this recipe will impress both vegans and meat eaters. It's perfect for family dinners, BBQs, or any time you crave something warm and flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This
- Hearty & Satisfying: A protein-packed, flavorful side dish.
- Smoky & Sweet: Balanced with maple syrup, brown sugar, and liquid smoke.
- Easy Vegan Recipe: Simple, plant-based ingredients with minimal prep.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day!
- Perfect Side Dish: Ideal for summer BBQs or cozy winter nights.
Other Bean Recipes You Will Love
- High Protein Chickpeas & Beans
- Vegan Chili with Beans
- Sautéed Butter Beans
- Carbonara With Lupini Bean
- Butter Beans & Miso Stew
Ingredients
- 3 Variety Cans of Beans: A mix of navy beans, cannellini beans, and kidney beans for a balanced texture.
- Tomato Paste: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
- BBQ Sauce: Delivers tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors.
- Agave: A natural sweetener that balances acidity.
- Liquid Smoke: Provides a deep, smoky taste.
- Seasonings and Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper for robust flavor.
- For Topping: A mix of cashew nutritional yeast for creaminess and vegan bacon for a crispy, smoky finish.
Steps
- Sauté aromatics, In a large mixing bowl, combine tomato paste, BBQ sauce, agave syrup, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well. Add to Sautéed Garlic and Onions.
- Add beans them to the sauce mixture, stirring until fully coated.
- Transfer to a Baking Dish or use the same pan.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes (optional). Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes for a thickened, caramelized finish.
- While the beans are baking, cook vegan bacon according to package instructions until crispy. Crumble and set aside. Make cashew cheese. Blitz cashews and nutritional yeast. Top the beans and broil till brown.
- Serve and Enjoy
Variations
- Beans: Swap in black-eyed peas or great northern beans for variety.
- Sweetener: Use coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of agave.
- Vegan Meat: Try vegan sausage or tempeh bacon for extra protein.
- Spice Level: Add dijon mustard or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Substitutions
- Tomato Paste: Use tomato sauce or puree for a lighter consistency.
- BBQ Sauce: Replace with homemade or store-bought varieties.
- Liquid Smoke: Substitute with smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
- Beans: Use dried beans if preferred; just soak and cook them first.
FAQ
1. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Combine all ingredients and cook on medium-low heat for 4-6 hours.
2. How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
3. Can I freeze Vegan Bacon Baked Beans?
Yes, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
4. What pairs well with this dish?
Serve with veggie burgers, vegan potato salad, or a warm cornbread.
Top Tip
For maximum smoky flavor, cook in a dutch oven over medium heat, allowing the flavors to deepen slowly. Add extra liquid smoke if needed.
Hint
Let the beans cool slightly before serving to enhance the overall taste and texture. Garnish with fresh basil or extra vegan bacon for added flair.
Vegan Bacon Baked Beans
Ingredients
- 2 cans 15 oz each navy beans – For a creamy, tender texture.
- 1 can 15 oz kidney beans – Adds heartiness and color.
- ¼ cup tomato paste – For a rich tomato base.
- ⅓ cup BBQ sauce – Provides tangy smoky flavor.
- 2 tablespoon agave syrup – Balances acidity with sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke – Adds deep smoky flavor.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Enhances the smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Boosts the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – For a hint of spice.
- ¼ cup cashew nutritional yeast – Optional for a cheesy, savory topping.
- 4 slices vegan bacon cooked and crumbled – Adds crispy, smoky goodness.
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics, In a large mixing bowl, combine tomato paste, BBQ sauce, agave syrup, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well. Add to Sautéed Garlic and Onions.
- Add beans them to the sauce mixture, stirring until fully coated.
- Transfer to a Baking Dish or use the same pan.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes (optional). Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes for a thickened, caramelized finish.
- While the beans are baking, cook vegan bacon according to package instructions until crispy. Crumble and set aside. Make cashew cheese. Blitz cashews and nutritional yeast. Top the beans and broil till brown.
- Serve and Enjoy
