Remember those humble tins of baked beans gathering dust in your cupboard? Well, it’s time to dust them off and give them the spotlight they deserve.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Baked beans? Really?” But hear me out, I’m not just doing this because the site was named after a terrible pun that I’m now regretting.
These versatile little nuggets of goodness are not just for breakfast or cheap lunches on toast.
Ready to give your meals a bean-boost? Let’s go!
[Disclaimer – I found these ideas on the web, I’m not a lunatic that sits around coming up with ideas for beans, it just seemed rude not to do a bean related post.]
Breakfast Bean Smoothie
Okay, hear me out on this one. I know what you’re thinking – beans in a smoothie? Have they lost their mind? But trust me, it works! Blend some baked beans with a banana, a splash of milk (dairy or plant-based, your choice), a spoonful of cocoa powder, and a drizzle of honey. The result? A creamy, protein-packed smoothie that’ll keep you full until lunch. So long as you manage to keep it down.
The Ultimate Bean Burger
This is a burger that’ll make even the most devoted meat-lover do a double-take. Provided they’ve not had a real burger in a while. And is also suffering from a milk concussion. Mix your baked beans with some breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, and your favorite herbs and spices. Shape into patties, fry until crispy, and serve in a bun with all the trimmings. Add a slice of cheese, some crispy lettuce, and a dollop of burger sauce and you’ll be the envy of the neighbours cat.
Bean-stuffed Bell Peppers
Cut some bell peppers in half, scoop out the seeds, and fill with a mixture of baked beans, cooked rice, and your choice of extras (think corn, chopped tomatoes, or even some crumbled feta). Pop them in the oven until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot and bubbly. Then shove them down your face hole.
Bean and Tuna Salad
Mix baked beans with some flaked tuna, chopped red onion, and a dollop of mayo. Serve on a bed of crisp lettuce or stuff it into a pita pocket for a portable lunch. It’s a bit like a tuna salad, but with beans.
I actually quite like the sound of this one, and I’ll fight anyone who disagrees.
One-Pot Bean and Sausage Stew
Brown some sausages in a pot, add onions, garlic, and your favorite veggies (carrots and celery work great here). Throw in a tin of baked beans, some stock, and a splash of Worcester sauce for extra oomph. Let it simmer away whilst Hollyoaks is on. In less than 30 minutes, you’ve got a cheap and easy dinner.
Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
Mix your beans with some sautéed onions, peppers, and a generous helping of cheese. Roll the mixture up in tortillas, place in a baking dish, and smother with enchilada sauce and more cheese (because there’s no such thing as too much cheese). Bake until golden and bubbly. Serve with a side of guacamole and sour cream.
Baked Bean Shepherd’s Pie
Give this classic British dish a bean-tastic makeover. Instead of the traditional ground meat, just use baked beans as your base. Mix them with some cooked veggies (peas, carrots, and corn work well), and top with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes. Pop it in the oven until the top is golden and crispy.
Italian Bean Lasagna
Mamma mia! This bean-based lasagna is a so good, it might just make you forget about the traditional meat version. Well, that’s not true, but it is something you can do with beans.
Layer lasagna sheets with a mixture of baked beans, tomato sauce, and your favorite Italian herbs. Add some sautéed veggies for extra nutrition, and don’t forget the cheese (lots of it!). Bake until bubbly and golden. It’s comfort food with an Italian accent and plenty of chef kisses.
Mexican Bean Chili
Sauté onions and garlic, add your baked beans, some canned tomatoes, and a generous helping of chili powder and cumin. Let it simmer away until thick and flavorful. Serve with rice, a dollop of sour cream, and some fresh cilantro.