Baked beans are a beloved dish worldwide, known for their rich, savory-sweet flavor and satisfying texture. Whether enjoyed on toast in the UK, as a classic BBQ side dish in the US, or in a homemade stew, baked beans offer a comforting and nutritious meal. But have you ever wondered, which type of beans are used in baked beans?
The choice of beans is essential in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Some beans absorb sauces better, while others hold their shape through the slow cooking process. In this article, we will explore the best beans for baked beans, their characteristics, alternative options, and how different varieties affect taste and texture.
From the traditional navy beans to regional alternatives like Great Northern beans, cannellini beans, pinto beans, and butter beans, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about choosing the right beans for your next batch of baked beans.
What You’ll Learn in This Article:
The traditional bean used in baked beans and why it’s the top choice.
Alternative beans that can be used in different recipes.
Regional variations in baked bean recipes around the world.
How different beans impact taste and texture.
Cooking methods and nutritional benefits of various beans.
Let’s start by exploring the most common type of bean used in baked beans and why it remains the gold standard.
The Traditional Beans Used in Baked Beans
Navy Beans – The Standard Choice
When it comes to baked beans, the navy bean (also known as the haricot bean) is the traditional and most commonly used variety. These small, white beans have been the primary ingredient in canned and homemade baked beans for over a century.
Navy beans became the preferred choice due to their smooth texture, mild flavor, and excellent ability to absorb sauces. They also hold their shape well after slow cooking, making them ideal for baked bean recipes.
Why Are Navy Beans Preferred?
Navy beans are chosen for baked beans for several key reasons:
Soft Texture – They become tender and creamy without breaking apart, creating the perfect consistency.
Neutral Flavor – Their mild taste allows them to soak up the flavors of tomato sauce, molasses, brown sugar, or any seasoning used in baked beans.
Excellent Sauce Absorption – The porous nature of navy beans makes them perfect for absorbing rich sauces.
Traditional Choice – Most canned baked beans, including Heinz and Bush’s, use navy beans as their base.
History of Navy Beans in Baked Beans
Navy beans have been a staple ingredient in baked beans since the 19th century. The name “navy beans” comes from their extensive use as a nutrient-rich food for sailors in the U.S. Navy. The beans were inexpensive, non-perishable, and provided essential protein, making them a valuable food source.
Today, navy beans remain the go-to choice for baked beans, both in homemade and store-bought varieties. However, other bean types are sometimes used to create unique textures and flavors. Let’s explore some of these alternatives.
Alternative Beans Used in Baked Beans
While navy beans are the most common, other beans can also be used in baked bean recipes, either by choice or necessity. These include:
1. Great Northern Beans
Great Northern beans are slightly larger than navy beans but share a similar mild flavor and creamy texture. They work well in baked beans, especially when a richer, heartier consistency is desired.
✔️ Best For: A softer, slightly larger bean texture in baked beans.
✔️ Flavor Profile: Mild, slightly nutty.
2. Cannellini Beans
Cannellini beans are larger and firmer than navy beans, with a slightly earthy and nutty flavor. They are often used in Italian baked bean recipes but can also work well in traditional baked beans for a firmer bite.
✔️ Best For: A firmer texture with a mild, nutty taste.
✔️ Flavor Profile: Earthy, nutty, slightly sweet.
3. Pinto Beans
Pinto beans are common in Mexican and Southern-style baked beans. They have a creamy yet slightly mealy texture and a rich, slightly sweet flavor. While they are less common in traditional baked beans, they can be used in variations that require a heartier consistency.
✔️ Best For: A richer, more robust baked bean dish.
✔️ Flavor Profile: Slightly sweet, earthy.
4. Butter Beans (Lima Beans)
Butter beans are much larger than navy beans and have a buttery, almost velvety texture. They are sometimes used in Southern-style baked beans for a unique twist.
✔️ Best For: A creamier, smoother baked bean dish.
✔️ Flavor Profile: Buttery, slightly sweet.
How Different Beans Affect the Taste of Baked Beans
The type of bean used in baked beans significantly impacts the overall taste, texture, and sauce absorption. While navy beans remain the standard, alternative beans bring their own unique characteristics to the dish.
Texture Differences in Various Beans
Different beans have different levels of firmness and creaminess:
- Navy Beans – Soft and creamy, blending well with sauce.
- Great Northern Beans – Slightly larger and firmer than navy beans but still smooth.
- Cannellini Beans – Firm and meaty, providing a more substantial bite.
- Pinto Beans – Slightly mealy with a thicker texture.
- Butter Beans – Large, smooth, and velvety in texture.
If you prefer a thicker, heartier texture, pinto beans or cannellini beans are good alternatives. If you enjoy a soft, creamy texture, navy beans or butter beans are the best choice.
How Beans Absorb Flavors
Since baked beans rely on sauces for their rich taste, choosing the right bean ensures maximum flavor absorption:
- Navy Beans – Best at absorbing sweet and savory flavors, making them perfect for traditional recipes.
- Great Northern Beans – Mild in flavor, allowing them to absorb sauces well.
- Cannellini Beans – Their firmer skin makes them absorb flavors slightly less than navy beans.
- Pinto Beans – Naturally flavorful but do not absorb as much sauce as navy beans.
- Butter Beans – Their creamy texture allows them to hold sauces well, adding richness.
If you want your baked beans to be deeply infused with sauce flavors, navy beans or Great Northern beans work best.
Regional Variations in Baked Beans
Baked beans are a global dish, but the type of beans used varies by country and tradition.
British Baked Beans
In the UK, baked beans are an essential breakfast staple, often served on toast.
Beans Used: Navy Beans
Sauce Base: Tomato-based sauce (typically without molasses or brown sugar).
Flavor Profile: Mild, slightly sweet, and tangy.
Most canned British-style baked beans (like Heinz) use navy beans with a simple tomato sauce without additional sweeteners like molasses.
American-Style Baked Beans
American baked beans are often sweeter and smokier, with a rich molasses or brown sugar base.
Beans Used: Navy Beans, Great Northern Beans, or Pinto Beans.
️ Sauce Base: Molasses, brown sugar, bacon, and sometimes barbecue sauce.
Flavor Profile: Sweet, smoky, and slightly tangy.
Brands like Bush’s Baked Beans and Campbell’s Baked Beans use navy beans in their classic recipes.
Southern-Style Baked Beans
In the Southern United States, baked beans are often cooked with bacon, onions, and spices, making them heartier.
Beans Used: Pinto Beans, Butter Beans, or Navy Beans.
Sauce Base: Brown sugar, mustard, and smoked meat flavors.
Flavor Profile: Smoky, sweet, and savory.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Baked Beans
Homemade baked beans allow for greater flexibility in bean selection. While most store-bought varieties stick with navy beans, homemade recipes can include Great Northern beans, cannellini beans, or even a mix of different beans for varied texture.
How to Choose the Best Beans for Baked Beans
Selecting the right type of bean for baked beans depends on texture, flavor absorption, and cooking preferences. Here are the key factors to consider when choosing the best beans for your recipe.
1. Texture and Firmness
Some beans stay firm after cooking, while others become soft and creamy:
- Soft & Creamy: Navy beans, Great Northern beans, butter beans.
- Medium Firmness: Cannellini beans.
- Firm & Meaty: Pinto beans.
If you prefer a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, go for navy beans. If you want beans that hold their shape well, cannellini or pinto beans are better choices.
2. Sauce Absorption
Baked beans rely on rich sauces for their flavor, so selecting beans that absorb sauce well is key:
- Best for Absorbing Sauces: Navy beans, Great Northern beans.
- Moderate Absorption: Cannellini beans.
- Lower Absorption: Pinto beans, butter beans.
If you want your beans to be deeply infused with flavor, navy beans are the best choice.
3. Cooking Time
Different beans require different cooking times:
- Quickest Cooking: Navy beans, Great Northern beans.
- Moderate Cooking Time: Cannellini beans.
- Longest Cooking: Pinto beans, butter beans.
For faster cooking times, navy beans or Great Northern beans are ideal.
Cooking Methods and Tips for Baked Beans
Cooking baked beans correctly is essential for achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Here are some tips for getting the best results.
Canned vs. Dried Beans
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Canned Beans | Convenient, pre-cooked, and require less preparation. | May contain added salt and preservatives. |
| Dried Beans | More affordable, better texture, and absorb more flavor. | Require soaking and longer cooking time. |
For quick recipes, canned navy beans are a great choice. However, for better flavor and texture, dried beans are worth the extra effort.
How to Cook Dried Beans for Baked Beans
Step 1: Soaking the Beans
Soaking beans reduces cooking time and makes them easier to digest.
✔️ Overnight Soak Method: Cover beans with water and let them sit for 8-12 hours.
✔️ Quick Soak Method: Boil beans for 2 minutes, turn off the heat, and let them sit for 1 hour.
Step 2: Cooking the Beans
- Drain soaked beans and rinse them with fresh water.
- Place beans in a large pot, cover with water, and simmer for 60–90 minutes until tender.
- Drain and use in your baked beans recipe.
Nutritional Benefits of Different Beans Used in Baked Beans
Baked beans are not only delicious but also nutrient-dense. Different beans offer unique health benefits.
1. Navy Beans (Haricot Beans)
High in fiber – Supports digestion and gut health.
Rich in protein – Great plant-based protein source.
Low in fat – Heart-healthy and nutritious.
2. Great Northern Beans
✅ Good source of folate – Essential for cell growth.
✅ Rich in antioxidants – Helps fight inflammation.
3. Cannellini Beans
✅ High in iron – Supports red blood cell production.
✅ Good for weight management – Keeps you feeling full longer.
4. Pinto Beans
✅ High in complex carbohydrates – Provides sustained energy.
✅ Good source of magnesium – Supports heart and muscle health.
5. Butter Beans (Lima Beans)
✅ Rich in potassium – Helps regulate blood pressure.
✅ Creamy texture makes them a satisfying addition to meals.
Baked beans, whether made with navy beans or alternative varieties, provide a wholesome source of fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.
FAQs: Which Type of Beans Are Used in Baked Beans?
1. What are the most common beans used in baked beans?
The most common beans used in baked beans are navy beans (also known as haricot beans). They are small, white, and perfect for absorbing the rich flavors of baked bean sauces.
2. Can I use other beans instead of navy beans?
Yes! While navy beans are traditional, you can use Great Northern beans, cannellini beans, pinto beans, or butter beans for different textures and flavors.
3. Do canned baked beans always contain navy beans?
Most canned baked beans, such as Heinz and Bush’s, use navy beans. However, some brands or homemade recipes may use alternative beans like Great Northern beans or cannellini beans.
4. Are dried or canned beans better for baked beans?
Dried beans are more flavorful and absorb sauces better, but they require soaking and longer cooking. Canned beans are more convenient but may contain added sodium and preservatives.
5. Do different beans change the taste of baked beans?
Yes!
- Navy beans – Soft, creamy, and absorb sauces well.
- Great Northern beans – Slightly firmer with a mild taste.
- Cannellini beans – Nutty and firmer in texture.
- Pinto beans – Rich, slightly sweet, and mealy.
- Butter beans – Large, creamy, and buttery in flavor.
6. Are baked beans healthy?
Yes! Baked beans are high in fiber, plant-based protein, and essential vitamins. However, store-bought baked beans may contain added sugar and sodium, so homemade versions are a healthier option.
Conclusion
Baked beans are a versatile and delicious dish enjoyed worldwide, with navy beans (haricot beans) being the most commonly used variety. Their soft texture, neutral flavor, and excellent sauce absorption make them the ideal choice for traditional baked beans. However, Great Northern beans, cannellini beans, pinto beans, and butter beans are excellent alternatives, each bringing unique textures and flavors to the dish.
Choosing the right bean depends on your preferred texture, flavor profile, and cooking method. If you’re making classic baked beans, navy beans are the best choice. If you want a firmer texture or a different taste, you can experiment with Great Northern or cannellini beans.
For more ideas on enhancing your baked beans, check out:
What Can I Add to Baked Beans for Flavor?
What Are the Ingredients for Baked Beans?
Baked Beans Recipe
Whether you prefer homemade or store-bought baked beans, knowing the best type of beans to use ensures a delicious, hearty dish every time. Try experimenting with different beans to find the perfect match for your taste and cooking style!
